Somerset bus passengers will soon be able to travel for less when a £2 fare cap comes into force in the new year.

Six bus operators in the county, including First Bus, Dartline and Southwest coaches, will participate in the scheme.

The major fare cut is part of an initiative funded by the government to boost bus use while helping passengers save money as the cost of living crisis continues to bite, fuelled in part by high petrol and diesel prices.

 The £2 single fare is available from all participating operators from 1 January to 31 March. The initiative will apply to the majority of routes in Somerset.  

Somerset County Council and the Somerset Bus Partnership have launched the 'Bus It' campaign to encourage more people to use bus services at a time when many routes are under threat due to lack of use. It's hoped the new £2 fare will provide a major boost to patronage and support these aims.

 The six operators involved are:

• Dartline
• Faresaver Buses
• First South West (Buses of Somerset)
• First West of England
• Hatch Green Coaches
• South West Coaches

 Councillorr Mike Rigby, Somerset County Council's Lead Member for Transport and Digital said: "This new £2 fare is vital to ensure we get more people on buses which will help preserve bus routes in Somerset.

"This is potentially a real gamechanger in terms of getting people to leave the car at home – a £2 single journey for most routes in Somerset is fantastic value for money when you factor in the cost of fuel and the cost of living crisis.

"By catching the bus, you can make a difference to the climate, to our environment and save money and wear and tear on your car – it really does make sense to 'Bus It'."

 Visit https://www.somerset.gov.uk/busit to find out about ticket deals and calculate how much you could save.