ONE of the companies which took over abandoned bus routes in February has announced price rises.

Diamond Buses has announced fare increases of 20p across its routes from January 2, saying the rise is a result of increased costs and lower council subsidies.

In April the service took over the 571/572 Bolton to Great Lever circular and the 575 between Bolton and Horwich when the routes were abandoned by First Bus.

In a statement on its website the company said: "Diamond are dedicated to providing local bus travel at a lower price, however increasing operational and employment costs and reducing local authority subsidies means that some fare increases are unavoidable.

"Where possible, we have tried to keep any increases as low as possible.

"In a 2018 industry survey, Diamond Bus fares were found to be some of the lowest in the country and despite the new year increases we are still offering many of our day tickets at below the national average."

When the 571/572 route was saved, it was taken on jointly by Diamond Buses and Vision Bus.

A spokesman for Vision Bus confirmed the company had no price increases planned in the "foreseeable future" and its fare would continue to be £1.40.

Other routes run by Diamond Buses through Bolton include 300 Interchange to Trafford Centre, 574 Interchange to Middlebrook and 695 Leigh to Royal Bolton Hospital.

Diamond says its new adult fares will be £2.00, £2.20, £2.70, £3.20 and £3.70. While children's rates will continue to be half of an adult fare.