Shopper bus launch welcomed by mayor (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Shopper bus launch welcomed by mayor

Driver Philip Tissington, chairman Cllr Rolf Brindle, manager George Brown and Melksham mayor Margaret White with the new shopper bus (17488)A DOOR-TO-DOOR bus service for shoppers in Melksham was launched on Tuesday. Customers who are unable to use ordinary public transport can now use one of three services, which will take them from their home into Melksham town centre or Devizes.

Melksham mayor Margaret White, who attended the launch at Somerfield car park, said: "I think it is a very good project and once people get to know about it, it will be really well used."

Organisers Melksham First and Melksham Council of Community Service consulted with residents who agreed that a service was needed for people with disabilities.

So far the response has been quiet but organisers hope it will improve as more people find out about the service. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays the bus goes into Melksham town centre while Thursday's service goes to Devizes.

The service is available to residents in the Melksham community area. Pick up times start at 10am and return at 1pm.

The cost of a return ticket is £2 to Melksham (£3 from Broughton Gifford) and £4 to Devizes. To register for the service contact (01225) 707424. Bookings need to be made by 11am the day before travel.