CAMPAIGNERS calling for better transport links around Yeovil celebrated the launch of a new bus service on Monday.

A revised timetable for the South West Coaches 68 bus means that both of the town's railway stations are now linked by a single bus route.

The new service, which will run from 6.30am to 10pm, is expected to benefit travellers from across Somerset and Dorset and follows years of campaigning from passenger groups.

It has helped to restore a transport link that was broken in the 1960s, according to Bob Driscoll, chairman of Dorset-based Western Area Transport Action Group.

At that time a rail shuttle service linking Yeovil Junction and Pen Mill stations was replaced with a bus service, which was later axed because it was deemed 'uneconomical'.

Passengers trying to get between the two stations have since faced paying for a taxi or walking along an unlit road with no pavement.

Mr Driscoll said: "It is good news for the travelling public and good news for the principle of integrated transport.

"This has been ongoing since the service was initially withdrawn.

"It seemed so illogical to have two railways running through Yeovil and no means of getting from one to the other."

Civic leaders and transport campaigners were among the first to use the service at the launch.

South West Coaches has purchased a new Optare Solo style bus to operate on this route.

Tony Reese, founder of the action group Friends of Yeovil Bus Station, said: "We always said we would celebrate when the link was opened and that is what we did.

"The aim was also to raise awareness of the service. It is still not easy to plan a journey, but at least it is possible now."

The 68 route also now includes Lyde Road, Fairmead Road and Monmouth Road in Yeovil, as well as Barwick and Stoford.