ELDERLY residents at a Stourport sheltered housing complex are celebrating the return of a lifeline bus service.

Broomy Close, home to more than 60 people, is now served by new circular routes linking Lickhill and Burlish Park with the town centre, Kidderminster and Bewdley.

And passengers are enjoying their new service in comfort as two new vehicles have been introduced on the routes.

Before the new 11 and 12 routes got underway two weeks ago, direct services operated just on Thursday and Saturday.

A petition signed by more than 1,500 residents and lobbying by Lickhill district councillors helped secure the services after the original routes were cut last September. councillor Jill Fairbrother-Millis, with residents Jean Hopkins and Dorothy Burbridge who are celebrating the return of bus services.

"It's made a big difference - this is much, much improved," said Dorothy Burbridge, 75, who has been campaigning for better bus links.

"I use it everyday and sometimes twice a day, and most of the people use it at least once a day."

She added: "This is sheltered housing and we've all got various medical problems.

It's a mile into the town centre and very few will be able to walk."

But Miss Burbridge said the Worcestershire County Council-subsidised services are only safe until August.

"We're really so grateful but we're worried about what's going to happen in August."

She vowed to keep up the pressure on the county to ensure the new routes were secured permanently.

Lickhill Wyre Forest district councillor Jill Fairbrother-Millis said: "I am very pleased the county council has listened to the residents and ward councillors and provided this level of service.

"Although it's only granted up until August I hope the usage will encourage the county council to continue the service.

"I am also pleased that the people now have two new buses."