A POPULAR open-top double-deck Exmoor coastal bus is having to run with a covered vehicle because of dangers to passengers from overhanging trees.

The Exmoor Explorer runs from Minehead to Ilfracombe via Porlock Hill and Countisbury Hill offering passengers spectacular views of the stunning coastline.

The current season started in May after operator First Bus received a Devon County Council £50,000 subsidy and Somerset Council gave £10,000.

Open-top buses were scheduled to begin last week and continue until the end of the ‘high season’ timetable on August 31.

But First Bus has had to keep using closed-top vehicles while it waits for the two councils to cut back low hanging trees.

A bus spokesperson said: “Tree cutting sits with local authorities, so we have been working with them to try and get this done as soon as possible.

“We have to prioritise safety, so for now, the service will continue to operate with closed-top double-decker buses.”

A Somerset spokesperson said “We only received notice of this issue in July.

“We are working with contractors to get the trees cut back as soon as possible and some inspections have already been carried out.

“This is dependent on booking road space to allow the work to be done, which normally requires several weeks’ notice.”

A Devon spokesperson said: “We rely upon the operator to complete a risk assessment and highlight any issues which may prevent them operating an open-top vehicle.

“Unfortunately, we only received their assessment on July 9, which was the first report to make us aware of areas where there are overhanging trees.

“We are working with contractors to get the trees cut back as soon as possible, but we are unsure as to whether it will be completed in time.

“We are sorry for any disappointment caused, but customer safety is our utmost concern.”