An on-demand bus service has seen a dramatic rise in usage across the Malvern Hills District.

The Worcestershire on Demand bus service, which launched last year, provides public transport based on demand rather than using fixed routes and timetables.

In Malvern, the service now averages over 1,000 completed trips per month and equates for 37 percent of all journeys carried out across the county.

Read more: Malvern motorbike sized by Safer Neighbourhood Team

The buses provide a service for areas including Upton, Kempsey, Hanley Swan, Hanley Castle, Longdon, Bushley, and Welland.

Passengers can travel to points of interest in the area, such as Malvern Community Hospital, Malvern Link, Great Malvern railway stations and Malvern Retail Park as well as further afield to places like Worcestershire Parkway Station, Worcester Countryside Centre, and Tewkesbury town centre.

Councillor Marc Bayliss, cabinet member with responsibility for highways and transport at the council, said: "It’s fantastic that we’re seeing more people using the service in Malvern.

"Initially, we saw numbers growing steadily, but in recent months the service has become increasingly popular.

"This is a great service, covering many journeys across the district and beyond.

"The buses provide a sustainable and efficient way of getting around a rural setting and are a key part of our mission to enhance bus travel in Worcestershire."

Councillor Tom Wells, leader and portfolio holder for communities, health, and wellbeing at the council, said: "It’s great to see the Worcestershire on Demand bus service thriving within the Malvern Hills District.

"Community Transport initiatives like this provide a lifeline to residents with limited travel options.

"Not only does it open up more opportunities for people, but it is also a sustainable and eco-friendly travel solution.

"We hope the service continues to grow and more people take advantage of this brilliant service."

The buses run from 7am until 7pm from Monday to Saturday.

There is a flat fare of £2.50 for journeys per person, with extra passengers paying £1.25.

Concessionary cards are accepted, and ticket bundles are also available.

For more information on the service, visit the county council's website (https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/).