PEOPLE in isolated areas of the Colne Valley will soon be able to dial-a-bus.

A new rural service is to be introduced which does not follow specific routes or times.

Instead passengers can call the driver on his mobile phone and he will arrange to pick them up as he circles the area.

Passengers can then be dropped off at the nearest major bus stop or taken to their destination.

The major bus companies reduced services in these areas after passenger numbers fell but this left many unable to get around easily without spending money on taxis.

Liberal Democrat Clr Margaret Fearnley said: "The service will offer a local mini-bus facility, which will operate over a much greater area than the old bus routes.

"It will not have a specific timed route, but will react to passenger needs.

"I cannot remember a full bus service running in this area so this is certainly good news for all those who have found it difficult to get around.

"These days most people do drive but there are an awful lot who don't especially the elderly. This is a boost for them but I hope other groups like students and young parents use the service as well."

The West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Authority put in a bid to the Government for a rural bus grant after people living between Slaithwaite and Outlane complained about the problems they had getting a bus.

The fares will be subsidised and are expected to be on a par with normal bus fares.

It is hoped the service will be up and running in the next few months.

A similar service will also start soon in the Calder Valley.

Clr Fearnley said: "This idea has been extended from the Marsden mini-bus service which was introduced some time ago and has been extremely successful.

"It is the practical answer for people who have complained they are becoming more and more isolated."