NINETEEN jobs could be created with the introduction of a new transport scheme for parts of the Ribble Valley.

Using cash from the Countryside Agency's Vital Villages scheme, the Bowland Transit aims to provide a fleet of minibuses and better access to transport for residents in rural areas.

Currently the service within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is used by only a small number. It is said to be inconvenient and inflexible.

The area is also attracting increasing numbers of visitors, though opportunities to enjoy it without the use of a car are limited.

Under the Vital Villages scheme, plus matching funding from the county council's Rural Bus Challenge, Bowland Transit hopes to introduce four minibuses operated on a non-profit basis.

The precise routes will be determined through consultation with local groups, though they will link with the Clitheroe Interchange for more reliable connections to train services.

A full-time project manager will be employed on a three-year basis, as well as four project co-ordinators and 14 drivers. A total of 13 Rural Intelligent Bus Stops (RIBS) will also be purchased.

Agency chiefs said more money was available and urged groups to apply for funding. Clare Warburton, the North West head of transport for the Countryside Agency, said there were two types of grants available.

The Parish Transport Grant offers up to £10,000 for town councils or parishes to set up a scheme, such as taxi-sharing, extra bus services or even purchasing transport of its own, which the community can use. And £250,000 is available for more ambitious projects such as the Bowland Transit or new 'dial-a-ride' services.