Bus firm to launch region's first 24-hour service

First said the move would benefit the night-time economy in Leeds and Bradford

West Yorkshire's first 24-hour bus service is set to launch, an operator announced.

First said the number 72, running between Leeds and Bradford, would become a round-the-clock service from 1 September.

The service, which runs through Armley, Bramley, Stanningley and Thornbury, currently stops after midnight on weekdays, while the first buses in the morning leave Bradford at 04:01 BST and Leeds at 05:01 BST.

First said the move would benefit the night-time economy and help shift workers.

It also said the move "aligns well" with commitments from West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin to help improve safety for women and girls.

Kayleigh Ingham, commercial director for First North & West Yorkshire, said: "We are delighted to be preparing the launch of the first 24-hour bus service in West Yorkshire on our 72 route running between Leeds and Bradford.

“It has always been a high-frequency route for us, and we are now investing further in our network to build on the success we have seen on this route while ensuring the best possible service for our customers."

First said it would announce in "due course" the frequency of the late-night and early morning buses.

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