Long Sutton to Wisbech bus will continue – despite Stagecoach pulling out of running the service

Passengers have been reassured that a bus route will not be axed - as a new operator is sought to run the service.

Bus route 50 from Long Sutton to Wisbech will be no longer be run by Stagecoach - prompting fears among residents that the service would not survive.

However, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority is going out to tender to find a new operator and has sought to allay fears for users.

A spokesman said: “We are committed to running a comprehensive bus network and these bus routes are an essential part of Fenland’s public transport.

“The three bus services mentioned have been operated commercially by Stagecoach East Midlands for many years, but they have decided that due to lower levels of patronage they can no longer be run without subsidy.

“The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has put out these routes to open tender, compliant bids have been received for all three services and we are in the course of awarding those contracts, which will be for the same routes and timetables as now.

“We don’t anticipate any interruption to services arising from the tendering process.”

Route 505 - which runs from Spalding to King’s Lynn - will not be affected by the changes.

News that the services will continue has been met with relief by residents and representatives.

Sutton Bridge councillor Chris Brewis said: “It is with absolute joy and delight to hear the news that it will carry on as it is.

“From someone who has been involved with transport for a long time I am absolutely delighted.

“People rely on it and it is regarded as the best two services in the country.

“A number of people who hold bus passes will be delighted.”