Buses are a vital lifeline for rural communities

The money has been used to buy a new Fellrunner bus, which will become the third in a fleet manned by local volunteers in the Eden Valley.

Dedicated buses are an important lifeline for villagers living in Eden, but the service had been under strain.

The 16-seater bus will be officially launched on 21 February.

Gary Strong, chairman of the Fellrunner committee, said: "The county council's local committee for Eden stepped in to help with the purchase of this new bus as it is such an important service for the people in the Eden Valley who would otherwise have no bus services.

"We were aware that Fellrunner were having difficulties and we are delighted to be able to help in this way."