Our apologies for not being in touch for so long. The first thing to say is that the buses are still running and there are encouraging signs of improvements in passenger journeys being made. (a 10% increase in the last year)
It is also encouraging that Westmorland and Furness Council, helped by a recent Government grant given to most rural authorities, are working hard with us and other local areas to help increase numbers using public transport.
July 22nd will see the re-introduction of the later bus from Ulverston to Coniston and return that was in operation last summer but was then withdrawn at the beginning
of Sept. for the winter months. This bus (part of the X12 service) will leave Ulverston at 14.50, returning from Coniston at 15.45. This will now give people a variety of time options using the service to spend more time in the Coniston or Ulverston areas.
We also want to ‘flag up’ the ‘Flexible’ service that Blueworks operate from Mon. to Fri. during the day. It is known as the ‘X70 Ulverston Connect’ It is available to anyone living within a 6 mile radius of Ulverston and is particularly aimed, though not entirely, at people in communities who are not on any bus route at all. It has to be booked at least 24 hrs. in advance by ringing 01539531995 or 07875558118 and will pick up at the door. NoW cards are accepted and the £2 adult fare is also in operation for fee paying passengers. This service is becoming increasingly popular and does point a way forward for the future. As soon as possible we will get more info. to you in the form of leaflets but details should be available on Blueworks and Friends websites. Examples of villages that are already benefiting from it are Urswick, Gleaston and Lowick as well as people in Ulverston who are not on a direct bus route. Scales would be another example that could benefit but as yet we don’t think anyone is.
Parish Councils have, over many years now, helped us with financial donations for which we are always very appreciative. We understand that every year is different but if you are able to help in whatever way you can this year it would likewise be greatly appreciated.
Finally we are looking for someone who could help us manage our Friends Website and Facebook pages and generally help us out with our technology skills. If
you know of anyone who would like volunteer to help us out please contact on this e-mail address or by ringing me (01229 835712)
Thank you
Roger Harris (pp The Trustees of the ‘Friends of the X112)
