Bus on the dial from your door (From Western Telegraph)

Bus on the dial from your door

A BUS SERVICE, which allows passengers to book their lift in advance, has begun operating in Pembrokeshire.

The dial-a-ride service operates in Narberth and the surrounding area twice a week.

It is one of several community transport projects being undertaken by Pembrokeshire County Council.

According to Councillor Brian Hall, chairman of the county authoritys highways and transportation committee, the service is particularly attractive to disabled people as the minibus used is fully accessible. The Bloomfield Bus, as it is dubbed, offers transport into Narberth from Ludchurch, Tavernspite, Lampeter Velfrey, Penffordd, Bletherston, Gelli and Llawhaden.

Said Councillor Hall: Passengers book a lift in advance, are collected from home and arrive in Narberth for 11 am which gives them time to shop, have lunch, meet friends or whatever. The minibus leaves Narberth at 1.30 pm and takes passengers back to their front door - it is that convenient. The services operate on Mondays (Service One) and Thursday (Service Two). Service One returns to Narberth from Ludchurch, Tavernspite and Lampeter Velfrey. To book a lift phone (01834) 860293 on the Saturday before.

Service Two returns to Narberth from Penffordd, Bletherston, Gelli and Llawhaden. To book call (01834) 860293 on the Wednesday before. Membership to the dial-a-ride scheme is £3 a year for adults and half price for the over 60s and under 18s. This also includes membership of the Narberth and District Community and Sports Association and all the facilities at the Bloomfield Centre.

The return adult fare is £2, while children under 16 and concessionary travel pass holders pay just £1. The service is also supported with additional funding by the Environment Development Fund - a scheme created by the National Assembly for Wales and managed locally by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.

Pictured with the new LPG powered minibus in Narberth is Councillor Brian Hall (left) and Pembrokeshire County Councils director of transportation and environment, Huw Roberts. PICTURE: Martin Cavaney Photography.