THE future of two bus services saved earlier this year is in doubt unless a new bus company can be found to run them.

The Number 10 route between Minehead and Porlock and the Number 11 Minehead town bus were rescued in a pioneering partnership arrangement and are well used, but current operators First Bus says that service changes taking place across the Somerset network mean the two routes are being withdrawn.

A company statement said: “We are currently operating in a difficult market where bus patronage is reducing.

“It is imperative that we look to ensure the long-term sustainability of our network and to do so these changes are imperative.

“We have liaised with Somerset County Council regarding the withdrawal of certain services and the local authority is exploring alternative options prior to Sunday February 4.”

Somerset county councillor Christine Lawrence, who was closely involved in setting up the partnership scheme, moved to allay fears that the services might fold and told the Free Press the council was aiming to continue the service with a new provider.

“There is nothing to worry about, the service has been well used, a lot of people find it extremely helpful and we don’t want anyone to get any idea that it’s ending,” she said.

“We will continue with a new provider and let people know as soon as possible in the new year who that will be.”

Somerset County Council said it has spoken to the councils involved in the scheme and was actively seeking a new replacement operator.

“The First services will be running until February and we are confident that we will be able to find an alternative operator before then to allow the service to continue after that date,” said a spokesman.

Full report in the Free Press