THOUSANDS of motorists, including many from Bidford and Salford Priors, have opted to use the park and ride service in Stratford since the opening of Warwickshire County Council's new site.

In a little over a month during the Christmas period from November 21 until January 1, 3,509 motorists parked at the site at Bishampton taking advantage of the free parking and enjoyed low cost bus travel into the town centre.

Even in the quieter months of the new year, demand has been high for the service.

The site opened early despite finishing touches still being made to allow drivers to enjoy hassle free parking over the Christmas period.

County Councillor Martin Heatley, responsible for the environment, transport and rural affairs, said: "I'm delighted to see such a positive take up of the new service and we don't even officially launch Stratford park and ride until June.

"Parking in Stratford has been a problem for some time and when you find a parking space the charge can be expensive for a long stay. I would encourage everyone visiting Stratford to use the park and ride."

Buses operated by Johnsons of Henley run from the site into the town centre every ten minutes on each day of the week.

One of the managing directors of Johnsons of Henley, Peter Johnson, said: "It's early days but we're encouraged by the amount of people starting to use the facility and by the many favourable comments we're receiving. We already have some regulars."

Details about the Stratford park and ride are available on the county council website www.warwickshire.gov.uk/publictransport.