'Lifeline' bus replaced after residents' campaign

The Y8 bus route will resume on Monday after being axed last year

Residents of a rural town are celebrating the return of a bus route they describe as a "lifeline" after a year long fight.

Starting Monday, the Y8 service will link Wotton-under-Edge in Gloucestershire with Yate on the edge of Bristol, running 15 times on weekdays and 12 times on Saturdays.

The former 84/85 route, which covered Wotton, was withdrawn in September 2024 due to funding issues between neighbouring councils.

Campaigner Barbara Lawrence, from Save the Wotton to Yate Bus Route, said: "I was devastated, for myself and so many others [when it was cancelled]."

At the time, the residents warned that this loss would disrupt their lives and make simple journeys far more complicated.

"Losing the bus meant some people lost their jobs, students couldn't get to college, and older residents were left isolated," added Mrs Lawrence.

Locals staged protests, packed out council meetings and sent hundreds of letters to press for the route's return.

Mrs Lawrence said the news of the bus returning has lifted spirits across the town.

"I was delighted - absolutely thrilled. People were buzzing with excitement when they heard."

Funding for the service has come through the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority's Bus Grant from the UK government.

Barbara Lawrence called return of the Y8 "absolutely thrilling"

While the service is secured for now, funding is only guaranteed until March 2026, when passenger numbers will be reviewed.

"It's not the end of the line. We want a permanent solution and the only way is bums on seats." Mrs Lawrence added.

Local organisations have also welcomed the bus's return, stressing the importance of residents getting behind the service.

Dick Whittington from the West of England Rural Network said: "We're delighted that the WESTlocal Y8 service will now link with both Wotton-under-Edge and Yate rail station.

"We've had so much feedback saying how important these connections are to local residents. Let's make it a great success."