A SCENIC bus service has been given a £30,000 boost by Exmoor National Park Authority to help safeguard its future.

The Exmoor 300 Coastal Link run by Quantock Motor Services will use the money to build a new business model and to develop the service.

The route is served by an open top bus in the summer season and is popular with walkers, sightseers and local residents offering a unique view of the spectacular coastline and wild moorlands of Exmoor.

There had been fears the bus, which links Minehead and Lynmouth along the Exmoor coastline, would have to be axed after Somerset County Council cut funding.

But the park authority's grant should help the service to become self-sustaining through the introduction of new services and initiatives.

Quantock Motor Services Ltd will use some of the park authority's grant to develop a journey guide to provide passengers with detailed information on what to see and do along the route.

They will also be looking to introduce a new single-decker vehicle with an open top area for use in the quieter off-peak months, while additional services, including a link to Ilfracombe from Minehead, could be introduced at busy times.

It is hoped that these developments, along with changes to the ticketing options, will enable the route to become self-sustaining financially.

Dan James, the authority's sustainable economy officer, said: "This is a great service that allows people to experience the national park in a unique way, as well as offering car-free opportunities to local residents and visitors alike.

"Local communities and businesses really benefit from the route and there will be opportunities for them to support the service in the future through advertising in the journey guide.

"We've been very impressed with the operator's commitment to provide an ongoing year-round service that can stand on its own feet.

"Our contribution will support the bus through the change from unaffordable subsidy to an independent and sustainable service for the coming years."

Developments to the route will be introduced over the summer and it is intended to operate a year-round service with up to five journeys a day, operating seven days a week during the peak season.

Stephen Morris, managing director of Quantock Motor Services Ltd said: "I am very pleased to receive this funding as it reassures us that there is continued interest and support for this service which hopefully now has a brighter future."

More information about the Exmoor 300 service and other car-free opportunities within the national park is available on the website www. exploremoor.co.uk.