HOSPITAL bus services for patients and relatives from Kidderminster to Worcester and Redditch have been hailed a success.

First Midland Red bus company said there have been 25 per cent more passengers using the service than was predicted when it was launched in September.

The services came into being in the wake of the downgrading of Kidderminster Hospital.

First Midland Red commercial manager Austin Birks said: "This has got to be one of the best examples in the UK for positive partnership working to promote transport for the good of all members of the community."

Kidderminster and District Community Health Council chairman Flora Wright backed the new service and said: "There was clearly a need for improved public transport between Kidderminster, Worcester, Bromsgrove and Redditch and the CHC is delighted that the uptake has proved this to be true.

"At the moment the services are heavily subsidised by the NHS and future service provision will depend upon the success of bids for Govern-ment transport funds."