Bridgnorth park and ride bus to remain free

The shuttle service was launched for the first time in April by the town's Chamber of Commerce.

Business leaders have been so impressed with the Saturday scheme they have decided to continue sponsoring the service.

Companies are being sought to take up sponsorship until the end of September when a £2 charge is likely to be introduced.

Steve Robbins, chairman of the chamber, said: "We heard how successful the park and ride has been so far and members spoke of all the positive comments they have received from those using it.

"Having considered carefully the service, its reception and the positive effect it has had for businesses in the town, as well as the way in which it has helped bring visitors in to the St George's Day parade and now the Bridgnorth Carnival, the chamber has decided to keep the service free for the rest of the summer."

"We are asking companies to consider sponsoring one of the weeks to support us with this idea."

The service runs every Saturday, starting at 9:30am from the livestock market auction site in Tasley, with the last bus leaving from outside Bridgnorth Sainsbury's at 4pm.

The bus has averaged more than 200 users every Saturday and Mr Robbins said sponsoring for a week was not expensive, with each company supporting the scheme seeing their business promoted on the day.

"It is an extremely cost effective way of advertising," he said.

"It will link their business to such a well-received service which benefits the local community, so it's a great way of showing support for the town."

Companies interested in sponsoring the scheme can contact the chamber through the website www.bridgnorthcofc.co.uk