THE BUS company serving Winchester has announced its Christmas and new year services.

Stagecoach has been working with local authorities around the level of local bus services required for travel over Christmas.

Passengers are advised to plan ahead as some routes may be busier than normal, particularly with reduced capacity on train services and engineering work impacting some rail routes.

Edward Hodgson, managing director for Stagecoach South, said: “We’re really pleased with the news that families will be able to get together over Christmas. Our transport services will play an important role in keeping people connected with their families and friends and making the most of Christmas shopping opportunities.

“We are reminding people to plan ahead and check before travel. Full details of our Christmas timetables are available at stagecoachbus.com.

“I would like to thank in advance all my colleagues who will be working to keep people connected over Christmas, and reassure customers that we have strict Covid-19 secure protocols in place to allow them to travel safely and with confidence.”

Summary of local timetable information:

• Christmas Day – no buses

• Saturday, December 26 until Monday, December 28 - Sunday services

• Tuesday, December 29 until Wednesday 30th – Saturday services with some extra service in certain areas

• New Year's Eve – Saturday service with last buses at about 8pm

• New Year's Day – no buses

• Saturday, January 2 - normal Saturday service

• Sunday, January 3 - normal Sunday service

• Monday, January 4 - normal school day service resumes

For more information, go to stagecoachbus.com