TENBURY MP Harriett Baldwin has called upon Worcestershire County Council to think about the implications of cutting rural bus services.

A vital service linking Tenbury with Kidderminster is under threat as the council looks to save money.

Mrs Baldwin has responded to the county council’s rural bus consultation on behalf of her constituents.

The MP has also called on the county council to consider easing regulations and licences to allow alternative suppliers to start bus routes.

Worcestershire County Council announced plans to consult on the reduction of funding for bus services including services for commuters, students and shoppers.

The council is consulting on removing the £3 million rural bus subsidy, threatening dozens of rural routes.

“I have considered the views of local people who have contacted me regarding potential bus closures and I am concerned about the impact some of these changes may have to rural areas," said Harriett Baldwin.

“Some passengers have suggested that they may be willing to pay a little more for bus connections.

"Where the county council subsidy may be removed, there are opportunities for private operators or voluntary groups to run replacement services."

The MP for West Worcestershire, that includes Tenbury, mentioned a number of specific services that she is concerned about but this did not include the one that runs between Tenbury and Kidderminster.

This service has a subsidy of more than £3 per journey.