Mayor Welcomes Investment in New Vehicle for Rural Bus Users

Mayor Dave Hodgson has welcomed the introduction of a brand new bus on the the number 25 rural bus route between Bedford and Sharnbrook in response to buoyant user numbers.

The brand new Dennis Enviro vehicle will enable users on the route - which travels via Clapham, Oakley, Pavenham, Stevington and Harrold - to enjoy travelling in comfort with colour-coordinated leather seating, three-point seat belts and CCTV cameras, while the vehicle also boasts low emissions and fuel consumption.

The £124,000 investment has been made by operator Grant Palmer LIMITED to ensure increased passenger demand is being catered for.

Mayor or Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson said: "We are delighted by the introduction of the new bus on Route 25, in response to the increased demand for this key service in the supported rural bus network. This investment has come at a great time and will enable comfortable, safe and reliable transport to be provided for users all along the route between Sharnbrook and Bedford."

Grant Palmer, owner and Managing Director of the Bedfordshire-based bus company said "The new bus is being brought in to show residents of the rural service that they are just as important to us as bus users travelling across Bedford town. The new bus, which is the best in its class, will ensure passengers reach their destination comfortably, safely and in style!"

For timetable information regarding the number 25 and the rest of public bus network across Bedford Borough, visit http://www.bedford.gov.uk/transport_and_streets/public_transport/timetables_and_maps.aspx

New features which travellers on the 25 service will be able to enjoy include:

• Vehicle capacity and out-side dimensions make it ideal for the rural operating territory of North Bedford.
• Un-rivalled passenger comfort for the type of vehicle.
• Three point seat belts fitted to all front facing seats.
• Full leather seating fitted (colour co-ordinated).
• Full 7 camera CCTV system fitted for passenger safety.
• Vehicle meets Euro 5 emission standards.
• Class Leading fuel consumption returned