A NEW volunteer bus in Droitwich will replace a valuable service axed earlier this year.

The 17 bus service operated by Diamond Bus around Droitwich was stopped on January 1 due to low passenger numbers with the bus company saying it could no longer justify the cost of running the service.

Local residents – many of whom are elderly with restricted mobility – raised their concerns with Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston who spoke with councillors about the cancellation.

Mr Huddleston said: "I have received a lot of correspondence from constituents in recent months about the withdrawal of the 17 bus service in Droitwich.

"I have been liaising with local councillors to relay concerns about the impact that the termination of this service would have on Droitwich residents, particularly elderly residents with restricted mobility and who rely on the service.

"I am pleased to announce that Worcestershire County Council has now arranged for a new Community Bus service which will provide a return journey into Droitwich on two days each week subject to advance booking."

The new bus will be run by Droitwich Spa and Rural Council for Voluntary Service and driven by volunteers.

It will run every Monday and Wednesday from March 19. Buses will depart St Andrew’s Square at 9.30 with stops at Winslow Avenue, Cockshute Hill and The Holloway before returning to St Andrew’s Square. Stops in between will be served upon request.

A return service taking in the same stops will depart from St Andrew’s Square at 12pm.

A single fare is £2.50 and a return is £4. Bus pass holders and 5-16 year olds can buy a single fare for £1.50 and a return costs £2.

To book a ticket call 01905 779778. The office will be open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm.

Bookings must be made by 12.30pm the previous working day.