All local bus services in Rutland have been reduced as a response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Temporarily reduced timetables have been introduced after a major drop in passenger numbers following the introduction of government social distancing guidelines.

Rutland County Council has warned further timetable changes may also be made at short notice.

As a result, the council advises passengers who need to make essential journeys to check regularly with bus operators to see which services are running and when.

Councillor Lucy Stephenson, Cabinet Member for Transport at Rutland County Council, said: "Lots of people are following the government's guidance on social distancing and staying at home. However, we also know that some passengers and key workers are still relying on local bus services for essential journeys.

"All our local bus services are now operating reduced or altered services, and timetables may be subject to further changes at short notice because of the uncertainty brought about by COVID-19. It's therefore really important that passengers check the latest service updates with bus operators before they travel."

For information about local bus services relevant to your journey, please check with

Centrebus – www.centrebus.info or 0844 351 1120

CallConnect – www.lincsbus.info or 0345 263 8153

Delaine Buses – www.delainebuses.com or 01778 422866

Mark Bland Travel – www.markblandtravel.com or 01780 751671

Rutland County Council continues to run a free minibus service for essential journeys between Oakham and Stamford, calling at Whitwell, Empingham, Tickencote and Great Casterton. This service runs at set times, Monday to Friday, and must be booked in advance by calling 01572 758138 with at least one working days' notice.

Highway maintenance works taking place throughout the County mean a number of road closures and diversions will also take effect in the coming weeks and may impact on bus services.

Passengers are advised to check with operators or contact Rutland County Council's Transport Team for travel advice. To do this, please call: 01572 758138 or email: [email protected].