AN extended late night clubbers' bus service from Manchester city centre to Leigh has proved so popular it will keep on running to the end of a trial period.

Transport chiefs have welcomed the news that a weekly average of 1500 passengers, paying a £2.50 flat fare, are using the seven subsidised key services which are at the half way stage of a 10 months experiment.

Since November Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority has been funding a pilot network of late night services on Friday and Saturday nights, including the 39 to Leigh.

Reports show that passenger numbers are increasing and services are safe and secure.

CCTV facilities are provided on the buses along with eye in the sky coverage at all boarding points.

The project will run until August and will continue to be closely monitiored.