The decision by Stagecoach to pull out of the Gloucester to Ross via Newent service will leave a big gap from Newent onwards as only a few journeys will be operated after February.

Some people will be stranded and others seriously inconvenienced. That is why Rail &Bus for Herefordshire is asking Gloucestershire and Herefordshire Councils to come up with an alternative support package to replace the service with one that attracts people back on board. According to Stagecoach only 20% of passengers will be directly affected by the withdrawal. That is a lot of people.

Not only will the withdrawal of the service affect passengers, but has an impact on the money spent in Ross, including a loss of visitors from Gloucester/Newent area having a day out as well as local residents using local shops and services. If anyone is interested in joining our campaign to save this route then e mail [email protected] and join the fight for a valued bus service.

Les Lumsdon

Rail&Bus for Herefordshire