A campaign group is pressing the Mayor of London to “come clean” about the future of a bus route.

Waltham Forest’s Save Our Buses (SOB) is asking Sadiq Khan to tell them what will happen to the number 48 bus service that runs from Lea Bridge Road, Walthamstow to Liverpool Street and London Bridge stations via the City of London.

SOB members say they have become aware of a threat to the service but are criticising the capital’s bus chiefs for making no official announcement.

Campaigner, John Darnell wrote to Mr Khan and asked: “Is Transport for London planning either a partial or full withdrawal of route 48?

“It’s a straightforward question and we’ll be looking for a prompt reply. The Mayor has a chance to set the record straight.

“This is one occasion where we would be happy to be proved wrong. Sadiq needs to let passengers know if our 48 bus is safe in his hands.”

Campaigners said this would not be the first time buses on the Lea Bridge Road have been cut.

Save Our Buses was formed in 1990 when the forerunner to TfL, London Transport, axed direct links between Walthamstow and the West End, cutting the 38 and 55 routes and part replacing route 56.

Campaigners say they battled for seven years to get the West End link restored and in April 1997, the 55 was re-instated and continues to run between Leyton Bakers Arms and Oxford Circus today.

SOB believes that axing route 48 would do the same damage as the previous cuts.

John Darnell said: “If the 48 bus is axed it will have a massive impact in Waltham Forest. This is a major trunk route used by hundreds of Walthamstow and Leyton residents for their daily commute.

“Route 48’s direct links to Liverpool Street and the City makes it a popular choice for many. It also provides the only direct public transport service to London Bridge Station, now a major transport hub in the capital.”

Geoff Hobbs, TfL’s Director of Public Transport Service Planning, said: “There are currently no changes planned for the route 48. We are constantly reviewing our services across London, to ensure they properly meet passenger demand and deliver the Mayor’s Transport Strategy.

“If any potential changes are identified we would first engage with the local community and hold a full public consultation.”

The Mayor of London’s office has also been contacted for comment.