Previously, several operators ran a variety of different routes around the area in an intricate network of accessibility-orientated services. Following public consultation services have been consolidated to provide more regular journeys to the destinations local people deemed most important.

The subsequent restructuring of the services produced a wide range of alterations to the services, reducing many down into two new routes, to be called 162 and 164.

Service 162 gives residents of Edlesborough and Ivinghoe Aston several journeys into Leighton, six days a week, as well as one return trip to Bletchley. This service will be operated by Red Kite as part of the County Rider network.

Service 164 is the new name for the 63 and 64 services, and also incorporates sections of the old 62, 162 and 171 services. Red Line Buses will operate most journeys on this service, which provides several journeys between Aylesbury, Cheddington, Tring, Ivinghoe and Leighton Buzzard, six days a week. Red Kite will also operate some route 164 journeys.

Not everybody is happy with the new arrangements, some for example losing a direct link to Milton Keynes. However Bucks County Council cabinet member for transport, Cllr Valerie Letheren, said: "Localism' is high on the transportation agenda, and this has been an exercise co-ordinated with the local population to ensure that the services provided meet the requirements of those who need to use them.

"It is very important to get the best value for money out of these services, and I hope users will agree that these changes represent improved accessibility in these local communities."

For more information telephone 08452 302882, or log onto www.buckscc.gov.uk/ travelinfo.