Number is up for bus passengers

The Bingo Bus sets off for its special journey

Passengers were left waiting for legs 11 and lucky seven during a bus journey with a difference.

Arriva bus company launched Bus Bingo as part of efforts to encourage people to leave their car behind and use public transport.

The special service on Tuesday travelled from Alnwick, in Northumberland, to Newcastle and back.

A bingo caller was on board with all the equipment, including cards, pens and balls for passengers to join in.

'Alternative to cars'

Mike Barber from Arriva, who joined the trip, said he hoped it would show that travelling by bus can be enjoyable.

"It is a bit of fun but it has its serious side - it is showing that it can be fun to travel by public transport.

"It is something we have to try - we tried it today and it looks like it has gone down well with our passengers.

"We are trying to get people to think of public transport as an alternative to using the car."

A travel pass valid for one month was presented to the winner.