TRANSPORT bosses are to again finance a free festive taxi service to allow Bury people without cars to visit close relatives in hospital.

Greater Manchester Transport are providing their eighth such service on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) officials have been liaising with bus, rail and tram operators to help ensure the level of festive services provided will meet as many of the public's travelling needs as possible.

The usual reduction in services between Christmas and New Year will mean bus, rail and trams operating a Saturday service on most routes.

Councillor Allen Brett, chairman of GMPTA's transport network committee, said: " I am particularly pleased that, for the eighth year in a row, the authority will be able to provide a free of charge door-to-door service for people to visit their close relatives in hospital on the festive Bank Holidays."

The special taxi service, available on Christmas, Boxing and New Year's days, will need to be booked through the relevant hospital.

Details of services are available on 0161-228-7811 between 8am and 8pm seven days a week.