VOLUNTARY groups are being urged to apply for cash to run Christmas and new year buses.

Kirklees Council is earmarking £5,000 for organisations willing to fill the gap when normal buses are off the road.

Cash is available to groups which want to run free services on Christmas Eve night, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

The main bus operators do not usually at those times, saying there is insufficient demand.

A council spokeswoman said the money was to cover publicity, the hire of a minibus and fuel costs.

She added: "Publicity would be expected to include advertising posters and timetables at bus stops.

"Groups will need to decide on a route, plan a timetable and organise, publicise and run the service using their own volunteers.

"Because of complexities with licensing and insurance, fares cannot be charged, but donations can be accepted," the spokeswoman added.

The deadline for applications is Friday, November 14.

* Phone Stuart Clewlow or Victoria Podgorski on 01484 225506 or write to Kirklees Council's Highways Service, Flint Street, Fartown, Huddersfield HD1 6LG.