THORNBURY town councillors are continuing their campaign to get a direct bus service between the town and Southmead Hospital.

They criticised claims made by First West of England in a Gazette report published on February 5.

A spokesman for the firm said at the time: "There is already a direct bus service from Thornbury to Bristol, which passes very close to Southmead Hospital, stopping on Gloucester Road.

“Those people who would wish to catch a bus all the way into the main hospital site from Thornbury would need to catch a combination of either Services 78 or 87 to Cribbs Causeway, changing there for a Service 82 bus direct to the hospital.”

Cllr Pam Shipp said: “Most people I know think that was a pretty shocking comment. Since the new Southmead Hospital has been opened, I’ve been constantly approached in Thornbury by residents having a great deal of trouble getting there and back.

“We have a large percentage of elderly persons in our town and a direct bus service would be greatly appreciated and very well used.”

Cllr Benj Emmerson said: “If you can’t walk that far, you can take a bus to The Mall and change buses, but that makes a very long and difficult journey, particularly for those who are unwell or have on-going health issues."

Alan Carman, who lives in Thornbury, currently has to drive to the hospital. “Even if you have a car, and are able to drive it, parking at the hospital is a nightmare." He said. "In addition parts of the roads are so congested that you have to leave a long amount of time to be sure of keeping appointments. And of course your car also adds to the congestion.”

Councillors are urging everyone to sign their petition. To do this contact Benj Emmerson by calling 01454 418898 or email benjemmerson@hotmail.com, or visit: www.stevewebb.org.uk/thornburybustosouthmead.