THE TrawsCymru network has seen a huge increase in passengers across the network - including the T5 route through Cardigan - since the Welsh Government launched its free weekend bus travel pilot in July.

The Welsh Government-funded scheme applies to all buses on the extensive TrawsCymru network and will continue every weekend until at least May 2018.

When compared with data from the previous year, increases of well over 100 per cent have been recorded across the network.

The T5 route from Aberystwyth , through New Quay, Cardigan and Fishguard to Haverfordwest recorded some of the highest increases in total daily bus passenger numbers.

On Sunday, July 9, 555 passengers used the service compared with 146 on Sunday, July 10 2016 – an increase of 280 per cent - while on Sunday, August 20, 389 passengers got on board compared with 126 on Sunday, August 21, 2016 – an increase of 209 per cent.

Economy and infrastructure secretary Ken Skates said: “The TrawsCymru network covers large areas of Wales, some of which would otherwise be inaccessible by public transport and it’s extremely encouraging to see this pilot boosting summer passenger numbers.

“From Bangor to Cardiff, Fishguard to Wrexham, this scheme provides a perfect opportunity for people from across Wales and beyond to jump on a bus and spend their weekends enjoying the diverse beauty of Wales and I am delighted it has already proved so popular.

“For those who are yet to take full advantage of the pilot, there’s still time to find out where your nearest service could take you. I’ve been keen that this pilot, at the very least, serves to increase the awareness of what bus services are available locally and today’s figures suggest that to be the case.”

The Welsh Government has provided additional funding to ensure operators are able to deploy more buses to meet increased demand where necessary.

Provisions have also been made to reimburse operators of other local bus services should they experience any reduction of passengers as a result of this pilot, although the Welsh Government is optimistic it will have the opposite effect.

For further information visit www.trawscymru.info