A LOCAL bus operator has stepped in to take over the town service currently delivered in Peebles by First Scotland East.

Scottish Borders Council confirmed this week that BARC Coach Hire of Edderston Road will run Service 90A from August 15.

The announcement ends the uncertainty which has prevailed since May when First gave notice that, following a review, it intended giving up a dozen of its non-subsidised commercial services in the Borders – including the Peebles town contract.

BARC is no stranger to these routes, having operated the town service on Saturdays and during school holidays since August last year.

“We are delighted to be in a position to expand our offering in Peebles to include school days,” said BARC’s office manager Lynsey Hughes.

“There has been an overwhelmingly positive response from the travelling public in the town to our customer service and we have received many glowing testimonials on our feedback forms, praising the cheerfulness and helpfulness of our drivers and the cleanliness and comfort of our vehicles.

“This is exactly the kind of service we aim to provide, especially given the importance of the Peebles town service which is a life-line for many townsfolk.

“During the recent period of uncertainty, we have been pleased to offer reassurance to many of our regular passengers.”

Mrs Hughes said her company intended to improve Service 90A.

“Having a reliable service with good vehicles and people-friendly drivers is only part of the solution,” she told the Peeblesshire News.

“We are already making some route changes in order to enhance things further and, in due course, we will also re-evaluate the hourly timetable to establish the need for any positive changes.

“We have already received one or two suggestions, but naturally they will require further consideration.

“In the meantime, we are very much looking forward to providing the town service on a full-time basis.

“We hope to continue to make it a positive experience for all those who use it.”