All change on the buses

FIRST is introducing a number of changes to its bus services as part of its bid to deliver a quality service to customers.

In Oldham the changes will only affect the following services from Sunday:

Number 57: This is a new route providing a Saturday, hourly service, between Oldham and The Trafford Centre, via Chadderton, Mills Hill, Middleton and Rhodes.

Number 58: Includes a new timetable, mainly showing revised departure times from Rochdale, and is being introduced on the Rochdale-Oldham-Middleton sector.

Number 59: A new timetable is being introduced and there is a revised route in the Manchester City Centre area.

Number 350: A revised timetable, with increased journey times, is being introduced for Monday-Friday afternoon peak times, all evening and Sunday services. It will run from Ashton to Hey Farm and Hey Farm to Oldham.

Network director Simon Bennett said: “Improving punctuality and reliability have been the main aims in making these changes and we’re confident that these enhancements will deliver real benefits for customers.

“Bus travel offers an economic alternative to the high cost of motoring.

“Compare the average weekly price of a tank of fuel, in the region of £40, with the £14 it costs to get a week’s unlimited bus travel or £50 for a month of unlimited bus travel, and the savings are obvious.

“We’re also currently operating 99 per cent of our scheduled mileage so it’s a great time for motorists to try the bus for some of their journeys, make a saving, reduce congestion and help the environment.”

Leaflets giving full details of all the changes are available on buses, at GMPTE Travelshops and from the customer careline on 08457 881155. The information is also available on the company’s website www.firstgroup.com.