The head of a Blackpool public transport operator has promised a zero-tolerance approach to vandalism after a teenager was prosecuted for starting a fire on the upper level of a double decker bus.

The 15-year-old male, who can’t be named due to their age, caused thousands of pounds of damage to the bus interior, with seats and surfaces left charred following the attack in January, the Blackpool Gazette reported. 

In a satisfyingly suitable twist, the boy could end up cleaning the seaside resort’s buses and trams as part of the 18-month community order handed to him at Blackpool Youth Court this week. 

Blackpool Transport MD Jane Cole said the sentence sent “a clear message” to other would-be vandals.

“This was a very serious incident and it could have resulted in loss of life,” she told the Blackpool Gazette.

“My primary concern is for the safety of our staff and customers and we will continue to seek suitable prosecution against any individual who compromises safety.”