Sad news for those who use the bus to get in and around Frome - the number 30 - unless the driver situation dramatically improves, will be ceasing service in August.

The bus, which serves key areas of the town, was taken over by the local bus operator nine years ago.

It is a key route, going to the Mount, Southfields, Lower Keyford and Locks Hill, along the Portway, into the town centre, and up to Stonebridge estate.

On July 22 Frome Bus said it would have to stop the service, mainly because of a shortage of drivers.

They posted: 'We took over operating route 30 from First Group nine years ago when they were no longer able to do it. Since then we have continued to operate the route reliably until recently when as you are aware it has become increasingly difficult to maintain proper schedules due to the current industry wide shortage of drivers.

"Unfortunately this situation doesn't look like improving in the short to medium term, and as we have no desire to provide a patchy unreliable service to you, it's with great regret that we have decided to give notice of our intention to terminate this route; the last day of operation will be Saturday 20th August 2022.

"We thank you for your patience over the last month or so whilst we have struggled to maintain services and we assure you we will do our very best to provide a reliable service up to and including the last day of operation. "

They added that they are currently talking to Somerset County Council, with a view to providing some sort of alternative service.

The bus lobby group which works hard to keep bus customers informed about bus timetables and campaigns to keep the bus services running, FAVBUG understands that all other Frome Bus routes serving Frome and neighbouring towns will continue,

Adding : " We are very aware that Frome Bus has done everything possible to recruit more bus drivers and they continue to look for more bus drivers. Other bus operators are similarly in need of more bus drivers."

If you think you could become a driver, or would like to know more, Frome Bus can be contacted on 01373 471 474