Bus services almost back to normal in Mansfield and Ashfield

Only a few night-time and Sunday buses are still operating on a reduced timetable, bosses say.

Otherwise, services are running with the same frequency as they were before the Covid-19 pandemic struck about 13 months ago.

Trentbarton says passenger numbers started to rise once schools and shops, as well as outdoor areas at pubs, started to re-open.

But there was still plenty of room on buses, enabling passengers to socially distance.

Jeff Counsell, the firm’s managing director, said: “Whether it’s going back to the shops, eating out, getting a haircut, returning to school, university or the office, customers are increasingly returning to our services.

"We are grateful that customers are following the guidelines on wearing a face-covering, using the hand-sanitiser on board and paying by using the mango app or a contactless card where possible.

"As further lockdown restrictions are eased, we are anticipating demand for bus travel will continue to rise. We will be there to help everybody back to normal.”

Mr Counsell added: “Even on those routes which have been slower to bounce back, it’s important that we provide a pre-Covid level of service so people can travel when they need to and when they want to – and to do so in a safe and Covid-secure way.

"It’s great for our wonderful drivers to welcome back more and more customers. Our thanks goes to the entire Trentbarton family of staff and customers for all playing their part in keeping everyone safe and connected.”