A COMMUNITY bus that has been introduced following the cancellation of a popular service in Thornbury is being hailed as a success three months on.

The 615 bus, which was run by Severnside Transport Ltd (STL) was cancelled back in September after the operator went into insolvency, leaving many of its regular users concerned over the loss of such a vital “lifeline”.

Used predominantly by elderly people in the town, the circular route stopped at a number of focal areas in the town, including Tesco, the High Street and the Health Centre, as well as many residential areas.

In an attempt to provide an alternative service, the 77 bus which was taken over by Stagecoach Thornbury, was extended to serve all stops previously visited by the 615, as well as providing a direct route to Southmead Hospital.

But with the lengthier journey, many users have criticised the fact that the new bus visits stops less frequently.

A public outcry was made over the cancellation, resulting in bosses at STL’s charity arm, Four Towns and Vale Link, riding on the bus to speak to regular users, with the decision then made to create the dial-a-ride service.

Offering the same route as its predecessor, charging £1 per journey, the red bus also offers a pickup service, with residents able to phone up and get collected from their doorstep.

“The 615 was a community bus,” said driver Adrian Skuse, who had been made redundant by the cancellation, only to be rehired to drive the new service.

“Everyone who got on it knew everyone else, and enjoyed the journey. They look out for each other in case they didn’t see someone for a couple of days.

“They could have quite easily said that they would use their bus pass on the 77 bus, but they are all very happy to pay their pound.

“Starting this new service saved me a job and everyone seems very happy with what we are doing.

“Many aren’t that mobile, so a direct pick-up is something that they are very interested in. When you are providing a service, you should be putting what the customers want first.”

Thornbury resident Neil Nevin told the Gazette that he uses the bus every day.

 “I really missed the 615 when it was cancelled,” the 98-year-old said. “It was a disaster to take it away.

“But I was pleased to find out that they were running this new bus. I am happy to pay the pound and really feel I get my money’s worth.”

Another bus user, who asked to remain unnamed, said she really liked the new service, which she even felt was an improvement on the 615.

“I use it a lot,” she said, “whether I am going to the dentist or the doctors, or to meet friends for a coffee or lunch. A lot of the time it is as much a social experience as getting to the destination.”

For more information, visit 4tvl.org.uk.