Island Coachways is preparing to take delivery of 10 new vehicles

Island Coachways managing director Hannah Beacom says she is delighted with a big increase in passenger numbers over the first two months of this year.

But she still wants to see many more local people using the States-subsidised service.

Figures released by the States Traffic Committee show bus passenger numbers were up nearly 50% in January and February, compared with the figures for two years ago.

Nearly all of the increase during the winter months is down to more local people using the bus service.

The figures showed that 56,700 people used the bus service in January - a rise of 5,300 on last year and 18,000 more than in 2001.

Higher frequency

Last month, the figures grew by more than 6,100 to about 56,700.

Island Coachways is pleased with the rise in passenger numbers, but Mrs Beacom is now aiming to target the local market with an even higher frequency of service, especially at commuter times.

The company is already discussing next winter's schedules with the Traffic Committee, and it is preparing to take delivery of another 10 new vehicles.

Mrs Beacom says the next batch of buses will have better access, more priority seating, and additional handrails for vulnerable passengers.