'Vital' bus routes in Leigh operated by Jim Stones Coaches will continue to run after Greater Manchester transport bosses found a replacement operator.
Jim and Joan Stones said in January that they were set to retire earlier this year - putting the future of the routes served by the company in doubt.
However, Transport for Greater Manchester revealed yesterday that it has found local operators to take over bus services in the area - which covers Crankwood, Hag Wood and Lowton.
New operators are expected to take over the routes from 19 April.
Transport for Greater Manchester Committee Chair, Councillor Mark Aldred, said: “Buses are a vital lifeline for many passengers across Greater Manchester, providing millions of journeys each year and accounting for three quarters of all public transport journeys.“This is why it is vital that we help support bus users and, where possible, maintain transport links in areas where it is a strong social need.
“I’m delighted that, on this occasion, TfGM was able to find other operators to maintain these key links and I would like to personally thank Jim Stones for his contribution to public transport over three decades.”
Jim Stones Coaches has operated local bus services in the Leigh areas for more than 33 years.
More information on the replacement services will be made available at www.tfgm.com/bus
