A YEARLY reunion for retired bus company staff has been axed because of the recession.

First has cancelled the 2009 Christmas party for long-serving employees, which usually takes place at the WRVS, in Charles Street, Hanley.

The event, which was first launched by PMT and dates back to at least the 1960s, was resurrected by First around five years ago.

It was open to all staff members, ranging from drivers to management, who were each rewarded for their time with the company with a diary and a £10 Potteries Shopping Centre voucher.

First has defended the cutback, saying it not fair to finance an event for previous workers when current staff are being laid off.

But Bill Rawlingson, who worked for PMT and then First for 40 years before retiring in 2002, said the move will devastate the 80 to 100 pensioners who go along each year.

The 69-year-old, of Heath Gardens, Stone, said: "I can remember the event being organised as far back as 1962. The qualification for attendance was usually people who had worked there for 35 years or more. They had dedicated their whole lives to the firm. For many, it is the only chance they get to meet up to talk about old times.

"Bus staff are a very tight bunch of people. The philosophy is that they work hard and play hard.

"It is such a shame if the event stops. Usually there was a buffet, and last year we even had a singer. It was very much enjoyed."

Mr Rawlingson started working for the company in 1962 as a bus conductor and gradually worked his way up to be customer relations manager, based at Woodhouse Street in Stoke.

He is now appealing for retired staff interested in continuing the reunion event by financing it themselves to get in touch.

He said: "We want to keep the event going. Once we know there is enough people interested, we can set about finding an appropriate venue and date."

Former Hanley bus station supervisor Alan Pugh also believes the event should continue.

The 67-year-old, of Foley Road, Longton, retired from the company last year after 43 years of service and was looking forward to his first reunion.

He said: "It is a real shame if it stops. It was a good way for people to stay in touch.

"I loved working at the company. I started off as a conductor. Once I'd done five years, I wanted to do 10, and once I'd done 10 I wanted to do 15.

"I loved my job and it was always secure. The good side to the company was its social side, so it would be a shame now if people lost touch."

First's commercial director, Paul De Santis, pictured, said: "In the current climate, we have had to look at staffing numbers and we have had to look at ways to cut costs.

"We could not justify financing this party for past employees when we are having to lay current employees off."

People interested in continuing the event should contact Bill Rawlingson on (01785) 819949 or Alan Pugh on (01782) 343319.