Translink and local residents in Newtownards and Lisburn have celebrated the first birthday of the increasingly popular, new Ulsterbus 26C Service.

The service which has seen a significant increase in passenger numbers is designed to enhance and improve public transport in the area.

The service links with other Ulsterbus Services and is proving popular for shopping and accessing local amenities.

Local Manager Richard Hudson said: "We are pleased the Newtownards to Lisburn 26C service has enjoyed such success in its first year. Public transport has a significant contribution to make towards delivering modern, healthy and efficient towns."

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The route, which is funded by the Department for Regional Development’s Rural Transport Fund, also serves Comber, Ballygowan, Saintfield, Temple and Sprucefield Shopping Centre and operates three times daily - Monday to Friday.

The Rural Transport Fund for Northern Ireland provides improved public transport for communities living in rural areas.

According to Translink, many over 65s are availing of the service, enjoying free travel with their Senior Smartpass.

It is expected that the service will continue to gorw as those aged 60-65 are now also eligible for free travel across Northern Ireland from October.

(PR/JM)