Major changes to bus services

A Leicestershire bus operator has announced a major shake-up of its services.

Passengers in the county have only days to get to grips with the new timetables.

The First group says it is trying to improve its main services - but many bus users say they are upset about the move.

The changes affect 10 major bus routes running through Leicester and come into effect on Sunday.

Under the new timetables the Number 70 service will no longer run between the city centre and Glenfield Hospital, with the company preferring a 20 minute shuttle route between Birstall and Westcotes.

Leicestershire County Council has stepped in to keep route Number 61 - which runs into the city from Birstall, after First decided it was no longer needed.

The Number 21 route, from Rushey Mead to a supermarket in Thurmaston has been extended, and Route 37, which runs up to South Wigston, has been simplified.

Managers at First say they are making the changes to improve the frequency and reliability on their main services.