Council has cash for bank holiday buses

BIG-HEARTED volunteers will get town hall cash to run Christmas and New Year buses.

Kirklees Council is making £5,000 available to organisations willing to step in.

The main transport operators do not run buses on Christmas Eve evening, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day as they say there is insufficient demand.

But in recent years, council cash has allowed volunteers to operate a lifeline for people who would not otherwise be able to travel.

Fares cannot be charged because of licensing and insurance complexities, but donations can be accepted.

Meltham, Newsome, Dewsbury and Holmfirth are among the places which have been served, as well as Huddersfield.

Council official Victoria Podgorski said: "The grant would fund hiring a minibus and fuel costs plus publicising the service through bus top posters and timetables."

It is hoped about 10 services can be helped although the number could rise if groups have their own minibus.

Further information, advice and application forms are available from Victoria Podgorski on 01484 225506 or by writing to the Transportation Unit, Flint Street, Huddersfield, HD1 6LG.