TRANSPORT bosses at County Hall have agreed to listen again to residents unhappy at the decision to axe bus services.

Pensioners Rene and Jack Houldsworth organised a protest campaign, after it was announced M3 and M4 services to Revidge, Blackburn, would be axed during the rush hour.

The couple, who live in the Revidge area, collected a petition with 200 signatures objecting to the move. They claim pensioners and children living at the far end of Revidge Road have been left stranded during peak periods.

Mrs Houldsworth, aged 73, said: "It is not just the people of Revidge Road who have been left stranded, but all those living in the streets running off it.

"When winter comes, children will have to walk home in the dark when they come back from the school.

"Visitors to the local nursing home are also having to leave early to be in time for the earlier services."

Lancashire County Council has written to the Houldsworths to say the decision will be discussed at the next public transport sub-committee meeting.

The letter reads: "Prior to the withdraw of these journeys surveys were carried out to determine the level of use.

"The results showed that between one and two passengers per journey were boarding or alighting at Revidge Road."

The letter adds: "It was decided any extension of services would not meet the county council's guidelines for the support of non-commercial bus services.

"However, in view of the petition, the points raised will be considered again by the public transport committee."

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