A new trial bus service is starting this week to help local residents get to and from Wooler town centre which is surrounded by steep hills. 

The Hoppa Bus service, operated by Glen Valley Tours, will operate for a 12-week trial period, starting on Monday 22 July until Saturday 12 October. 

The bus will operate between 10am and 3pm Monday to Saturday and fares  have been set at  £1 per journey, or concessionary pass holders can access the service for free. 

A regular direct connection to and from Riverside Park will also provide an easy link to the High Street and the town’s amenities for the thousands of visitors staying locally, who similarly find the hills a deterrent. 

Wooler High Street has a range of shops and services including a Doctors Surgery, Pharmacy, Post Office, food shops, newsagents and cafes. In addition, The Cheviot Centre houses the Library, Tourist Information, Newcastle Building Society and hosts many varied social events. 
 

Local County Councillor Mark Mather said: 

“Some residents are unable to walk into town and this can have a really negative impact on their lives and reduces the footfall to local businesses and social events. 
 

“We hope that the service will be popular and well used by the community and visitors so it is sustainable and can continue beyond the trial period. I’d encourage local residents to use the service and if it is a success we can progress to the next stage of applying for funding for a permanent service.” 
 

“Leaflets are being distributed around the town with times and route information and they will also be available from some shop counters.” 
 

“Wooler has a fantastic array of shops and services and a thriving  programme of community events which should be accessible to all. 

“I am sure this new service will make a massive difference to the lives of many local people and provide a boost for local businesses too.” 
 

Community Transport Officer Richard Froggatt has been working in partnership with Northumberland County Council on the scheme. 

Richard said: “Wooler High Street itself is fairly level but not being able to get to the town’s amenities due to the steep hills to and from the main High Street is causing isolation and exclusion for many. 
 

“It’s not only older people in the community who have said they would utilise a regular around-town service.“ 
 

Richard added  “I’m very grateful, not just to the National Lottery, but also to Northumberland County Council for their support via the regional Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funded by The Department for Transport, for making this trial possible. “