A BUS driver has been treated in hospital after being hit in the face by a pool ball thrown through his cab window.

Cleveland Police said the incident could have had "disastrous consequences" and might even have killed the driver and any passengers on board.

A spokesman said catching the person responsible was a priority.

Iain McInroy, operations director of bus owners Arriva North-East, said: "This was a despicable attack and we would urge anyone who has any information on this incident to contact the police so that the culprit can be caught and prosecuted. The safety of our employees and customers is always our main priority."

The driver, who has not been named, was recovering at home yesterday after being treated at Middlesbrough's James Cook University Hospital for cuts around one eye.

The ball shattered the cab window of the Service 66 bus as it travelled along The Greenway, close to Beresford shopping centre in Middlesbrough, on its way to Nunthorpe, shortly after 8pm on Thursday.

The police spokesman said: "This was an appalling incident that could have had disastrous consequences. The driver could have been seriously injured or even killed, as could any passengers.

"It was a totally, irresponsible act and we need to find the person responsible."

Police asked witnesses or anyone with information to contact them on (01642) 303126.