A POPULAR door-to-door public transport service is proving such a success that it is being extended.

The Barrow Bridge Local Link scheme has proved so popular in its first few months of operation that transport bosses have decided to extend its funding.

It was introduced in July to compensate the village for its poor bus connections.

Under the scheme, residents can order cars to pick them up outside their homes and take them anywhere in the local area, including Church Road Post Office and Bolton Interchange.

People can share the transport with other passengers and can order cars an hour in advance from Monday to Saturday from 7.30am to 6.30pm.

Cllr Nick Peel, Bolton spokesman for Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority, said: "We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to public transport.

"Schemes like this provide a lifeline for those in areas where there is a low demand for a conventional bus service."

Kathleen Hulme, a regular user of Barrow Bridge Local Link, said: "I've been using the service since it launched as I'm not able to walk very far and it's great to be able to get in a car that picks you up and drops you off outside your front door."

The adult fare for a local journey is £1.10 and £2 for a return.

Fares to and from Bolton Interchange cost £2 for a single journey and £3 for a return.

Passengers can book trips by calling 01204 364566 from 7.30am to 11pm every day.