A NEW bus service is being introduced between Ludlow and Hereford.

Lugg Valley Motors is introducing through buses between Ludlow and Hereford and through fares to make travelling on the service more attractive.

From Monday, September 5 there will be a direct bus from Ludlow to Hereford on Mondays to Fridays at 0740, 0920, 1020 and 1220.

There will be need to change buses at Leominster. The 490 forms the 492 bus from Leominster to Ludlow.

Return bus times from Hereford are 0845, 1045, 1345 and 1545. The journey takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to the centre of Hereford. On Saturdays there are two buses each way between Ludlow and Hereford. Orleton and Luston have more through journeys to and from Hereford in the new timetable.

The bus company will also be calling at the entrance to the Ludlow Touring Park more often with buses into Ludlow at 1007, 1207, 1507 and return buses from Mill Street at 0920, 1020, 1220, and 1720. There is also now an opportunity for touring park visitors to travel into Leominster and Hereford as the 1545 bus back from Hereford also sets down at the Park on request at 1707.

Public meetings held by Rail & Bus for Herefordshire with the 490 support group also heard that many wanted a through fare rather than having to buy two tickets. The bus company is now to introduce new through fares and passengers need to check with the driver when the new timetable comes into force.

“With Arriva Trains Wales increasing rail fares, this new through bus to Hereford is a boon for Ludlow people and those who live in the villages on the route,” said Les Lumsdon, a campaigner for improved public transport.

“It will also attract more visitors from Hereford to Ludlow and from Ludlow Touring Park travelling to Leominster.

“This has come about because the bus company and Herefordshire Council public transport team have listened to users.”