Council gets bus service petition

A petition presented to Devon County Council’s cabinet asks the authority to consider bringing back a rural bus service.

Cabinet members heard how three connecting buses — replacements for a direct Exeter – Barnstaple bus — were breaking down, diverting from their route, or being cancelled, leaving villagers in Witheridge stranded at bus stops fearing for their safety.

Residents are calling for the reinstatement of the 155 service so students can get to college, adults can get to work, and senior citizens can get to health appointments on time.

Cllr Jeremy Yabsley and local resident Cath Cottingham presented the petition, which has 325 signatures, to council leader James McInnes.