JEREMY Corbyn's promise to invest an extra £1.3billion a year to reinstate axed bus routes has been given a mixed reaction by East Lancashire's transport bosses.

Yesterday he said a Labour government would set up a ‘Bus Transformation Fund’ to reverse cuts made to 3,000 routes by since Conservatives took power in 2010 and to pay for the expansion of new bus services.

The opposition leader's pledge was treated with scepticism by Cllr Keith Iddon, responsible for transport at the Conservative-led Lancashire County Council which covers 12 boroughs including Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.

But it was warmly welcomed by Labour's Cllr Phil Riley, in charge of transport for Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Mr Corbyn said yesterday: “Bus services have been devastated by nine years of austerity. Thousands of routes have been axed, fares have soared and passenger numbers are in freefall.

“Local services are a lifeline for many, particularly the elderly and those in rural areas. Cuts have had disastrous consequences for our towns and city centres and for air pollution and the environment.

"Labour is committed to creating thriving bus networks under public ownership.”

Cllr Riley said: "A new Labour government would reverse the damaging cuts caused by years of austerity.

"I there ever was a time for austerity it is long past.

"More money to subsidise and support bus routes, essential for many, would be very welcome."

Cllr Iddon said: "It sounds like a good idea but where are they going to get the money from?

"When Labour was in power at the county council it did not support and save rural bus services but cut them to the bone."