A SUNDAY bus service through a national park has been doubled, following a group of volunteers receiving a wave of donations.

In addition to the Moorsbus service from Darlington, Stockton and Middlesbrough to the Moors and Pickering, a new service will link Saltburn, Redcar, Stokesley, Northallerton and Thirsk with Sutton Bank, Helmsley and Bilsdale, from tomorrow (July 5).

The service was relaunched last year by a group of volunteers after funding for it was withdrawn by the North York Moors National Park Authority in 2013 as a cost-saving measure.

The expansion is a result of many donations from individuals and a number of parish councils, and a grant from the charity the North Yorkshire Moors Association in recognition of the opportunities to improve health through walking.

Moorsbus spokesman Bill Breakell said: "This means more opportunities for local people to access services and facilities, or simply enjoy a day in the countryside.

“It’s been really heartwarming to have such support from people in and around the area, including parish councils and businesses.

"They recognise the social, health and economic benefits of the bus.

"This year we hope to introduce newcomers – young and old – to see this area for the first time and for others they’ll be re-connected with the area and its special qualities."

Timetables, fares and routes are on moorsbus.org