A public transport network, giving people access to some of the region's most scenic countryside, has been reopened.

The Moorsbus service has returned to the North York Moors National Park, after services were cancelled last month, because of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

Park bosses said the exclusion of sheep from many moorland villages, and extra precautions that had been put in place, had made it possible to resume the service.

Chief executive Andy Wilson said: "We hope that the re-launch of the Moorsbus will attract visitors back into the national park.

"Rural tourism is really feeling the pinch, as people unnecessarily stay away from our moorland villages and attractions.

"This is a clear signal that the North York Moors National Park is welcoming visitors with open arms."

Morning services to the national park run from Hartlepool, Malton, Scarborough, York and Middlesbrough