Residents turn out in force to save bus service

8.04.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 13th Oct 2009

Residents protest about the axing of the 'J' bus service.

Dozens of residents gathered today to protest against the decision of the county council to axe the 'J' bus service. Residents gathering in Benhall Avenue were joined by Cheltenham's Liberal Democrat MP Martin Horwood and local councillor Nigel Britter to try and persuade the County Council to change its mind.

Councillor Nigel Britter said "Local residents have told me how vital this bus service is to them. It is particularly important for elderly people living along the route who need it to get to the shops, to the Doctors, and to town. Residents in some areas would be seriously inconvenienced as the only alternative is to walk to the A40 and catch the 94 service which does not cover many of the Surgeries in St George's road.

"I believe that the cutting of this bus service is totally unacceptable. It is a lifeline for many people I will continue to campaign to ensure that the County Council is fully aware of how important this service is to local people."