Story By: Alex Cope, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News 

These images show a school bus which has been taken out of service after it was found to be in such poor condition that there was even a huge fungus growing inside it.

The bus had been used to take students from the village of Giolou, in the district of Paphos in Cyprus to school but the pupils had reportedly complained that it was in awful condition.

Cyprus’ Transport Minister Yiannis Karousos personally went to inspect the bus and said: “Unfortunately, I found it to be in very bad condition. I want to give a message to all companies carrying passengers because I believe in public transport.”

Images taken of the bus show a mushroom growing from the ceiling of the vehicle which backed up complaints that it was so damp the fungi were starting to grow.

The upholstery on the seating was also completely torn.

Following the inspection, Karousos instructed the driver to put the bus out of circulation pending inspection because of its unacceptable state.

The minister added: “I will do whatever I can to protect them, that they should adhere with the specifications and respect passengers.”

He said the bus will not be allowed to carry pupils again if all the problems are not addressed.

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