A QUESTION mark has once again been placed over the future of one of Tynedale’s rural bus services due to dwindling passenger numbers.

Northumberland County Council confirmed that the weekly 695 dial-a-ride service, operated by Adapt North East, will not survive in the long term if user numbers don’t increase.

The bus, which carries out a weekly return journey between Blanchland, Slaley, Hexhamshire and Hexham, is used regularly by a dedicated core of passengers who have repeatedly campaigned for its future over the last five years.

Following a review of all bus services in 2015, the county council capped the amount it would pay per head to support any service.

A report compiled by council officers suggested that 20 per cent of routes were either fully or partially subsidised by the council at that time.

Slaley Parish Council clerk Pat Wilson said it was an issue the parish council had discussed.

“We know there are one or two people a week using it from Blanchland, we have one lady from Slaley and then there are a couple of people who get on in the Shire,” she said.

“It’s a lifeline to those who use it, but the fact is, it doesn’t pay. It really is a case of use it or lose it.”

A county council spokesman said: “The 695 service operates one day per week. The service is a dial-a-ride scheme operated by community transport provider Adapt NE under contract to Northumberland County Council.

“In the past, this service has been well used, however over recent years patronage on the service has declined.

“In an effort to boost patronage and secure the future of the service, Northumberland County Council is engaging with the operator and the town/parish councils along the route in an effort to raise awareness and boost patronage.

“Without an increase in the number of passengers using the 695, the long- term viability of the service will be in doubt.”

For more information about the service, contact Adapt North East on (01434) 600599.