A FLEET of brand new environmentally friendly buses will be unveiled as part of a major upgrade to services.

The new Purple 17 buses, which will feature two doors, have been described as a 'flagship' and the 'backbone of Reading'.

A number of key changes are being made to the route, with the council's red route scheme due to take effect to clamp down on illegal parking.

Martijn Gilbert, CEO of Reading Buses, said: "We have always been at the forefront nationally of clean fuel technology and the new fleet continues with that tradition.

"The return to dual doors also means even quicker and more reliable journey times for passengers.

“It is also great news this substantial upgrade to this busy route comes alongside the council’s soon to be introduced red route scheme, which will provide much wider benefits.

"We are playing our part by not only making the bus a more attractive choice, but also speeding up waiting times at stops."

The new fleet of buses will feature USB charging points, superfast 4G wi-fi and a group seating area with tables on the upper-deck.

An official launch event will be held on Reading’s Broad Street, opposite The Oracle entrance, on Saturday from 10.30am.

Children will have the chance to build a Purple 17 bus out of Lego.