ST HELENS Council has stepped in to save a bus service under threat of closure.

The number 33 bus from St Helens to Billinge, currently operated by David Tanner was to have ceased on Thursday, December 16.

But thanks to intervention by Councillor Terry Hanley, chair of the Highways and Transportation sub-committee and Billinge ward councillor Bessie Griffin, following eleventh hour talks with Merseytravel, the bus will continue to be run by the Lancashire Rose company.

Says Terry: "This is a key route which serves people who live or work in the Billinge area. It is one of the main roads into town and is a vital link in the local transport network. I am delighted that we have managed to save the service which is much valued locally.

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