THE Rivington Rambler, a bus to one of Bolton's most popular beauty spots, will be running on Thursday and Friday as well as Sunday this week.

And this year the bus is providing a direct link from the train at Horwich Parkway will run via Horwich Town Centre and Lever Park Avenue via Rivington Lane and back via Horrobin Lane.

The bus, operated by Diamond Bus North-West, will provide a convenient connection at Horwich Parkway from the train, from 10.35am to 4.35pm and connect with trains back to Bolton and Manchester at 11.45am to 5.45pm.

The bus will stop on request, where it is safe to do so in Rivington - and use normal bus stops in Horwich, including The Beehive, Victoria Road, Leisure Centre, Sainsbury’s and The Crown (Stand B on Lee Lane).

All normal concessions will be valid on the bus. The service is being funded by Northern Trains, CrossCountry Trains and Transport for Greater Manchester. It is supported by Horwich Town Council and Community Rail Network.

Paul Salveson, chair of the South-East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership which is promoting the service, said: “We’re delighted to be able to run the Rivington Rambler once again, this time with even better links to the train. It will also offer a connection from the train at Horwich Parkway to Horwich town centre.”

Chris Jackson, Regional Director for Northern Trains, said: “We are confident that the service will encourage our customers to get out and about to explore all the fantastic activities which are available in the West Pennines area.”

John Robson, CrossCountry Regional Director, West Midlands and North West said, “We are proud to be supporting South East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership again this year with funding towards their Rivington bus project. It’s important to give passengers a sustainable option via public transport so as the domestic car isn’t the first option when travelling. This initiative stood out as it brings both bus and rail together in a collaborative way promoting leisure locally.”

Bob Dunn, Managing Director of Rotala plc said: ”I am delighted that Diamond Bus will be working with the South East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership to provide a special service once again to the beautiful area of Rivington.”