TWO bus services in Darlington are to be suspended as a result of the ongoing pandemic.

The Scarlet Band services 16 and 20 will stop on Saturday, until further notice.

The company says it is due to driver availability and reduced demand.

The number 16 'pink bus' operates from Harrowgate Hill to Mowden, via North Road and Hummersknott.

There are alternative bus services, provided by Arriva North East, available on certain parts of the route but Hummersknott residents, who would normally use it for essential trips, may need to call on family, friends or neighbours.

Anyone who needs additional support is advised to call Darlington Community Support Hub on 01325 405000.

People who use the number 20, which links the town centre to Sadberge, Bishopton, Little/Great Stainton and Neasham, can use the Tees Flex bus service or can contact the hub if required.

Councillor Andy Keir, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for local services, said:“We know people rely on bus services and we are working with the bus operators to try and maintain a timetable for key workers and essential trips. However, these are very challenging circumstances that we face.

“Passenger numbers have fallen dramatically as people follow Government advice and this has meant Scarlet Band is regrettably temporarily suspending service 16 and 20. Scarlet Band has every intention of reinstating these services when it is able to do so.

“If you have no other way to get essential food or medication then do get in touch with the Darlington Community Support Hub which may be able to help.”

The hub is open Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm, and weekends 9am–1pm.

More information about the Darlington Community Support Hub can be found on the Coronavirus pages of the website at: www.darlington.gov.uk/coronavirus which are updated regularly.

Details of the Tees Flex on-demand bus service can be found at www.stagecoachbus.com/teesflex or you can call 0330 678 1545 (FREE) between 7am-8pm Monday - Saturday.