THE number 72 bus service from Llanfyllin to Oswestry has been temporarily suspended during the Covid lockdown.

The service is expected to be reinstated in the spring, with operator Tanat Valley Coaches saying it is trying to keep as many services running as possible

In a statement issued by Tanat Valley on its website, a spokesman said: “During these unprecedented times, Tanat Valley Coaches are continuing to run as many buses as possible, however, due to the latest lockdown restrictions, our Wednesday service, the 72, from Llanfyllin to Oswestry will be cancelled until further notice.

“This is a temporary measure due to lockdown, and we fully expect to reinstate this service by spring 2021.

“To keep up to date with our latest timetables, please visit us online tanat.co.uk/public-services”

Last year passengers were dismayed when the service was axed in the summer, which was blamed on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on user numbers. It is one of the few services in Powys which receives no financial support from the local authority.

But members of Llanfyllin Town Council met with county councillors and Montgomeryshire Assembly Member Russell George MS to discuss possible alternatives and ensure people have access to transport between the towns.

Talks with the company led to a trial service running from September to this year, with a once-a-week service on a Wednesday leaving Llanfyllin at 9.15am and then proceeding on the old route all the way to Oswestry, arriving at 10am

At the time, Llanfyllin’s county councillor Peter Lewis said: “It will be crucial now that we can demonstrate that there is adequate demand because this route is still run on a commercial basis.”