FUNDING cuts to a popular bus service into a national park will not mean the end of the line, thanks to the efforts of volunteers.

From Sunday, the Moors Rambler bus will operate from Darlington to the North York Moors and Pickering, via Stockton, Middlesbrough and Guisborough.

The service will be operated by Arriva on behalf of the Moorsbus community interest company.

It is funded by many small donations from individuals, as well as the independent North Yorkshire Moors Association charity.

A number of events and guided walks will be linked with the bus services over the coming weeks.,

Eden Blyth, of the Friends of Moorsbus group, said: “Whether you’re a walker or simply want to enjoy the unsurpassed views and attractions of the moors, this bus gets you there in a greener way.

"The service has been designed to help those without a car, and anyone who wants to keep this a special and quieter place for us and future generations."

Bill Breakell, former head of tourism and transport for the North York Moors park authority, said keeping bus and rail access to the national park is vital.

He said: “For years, residents have said that the problem with tourism is not visitors themselves, but their cars.

"So if more people come by bus it will help everyone – residents, the tourist economy and the environment.

"And when the government is concerned about social isolation, the bus is a great way to meet new people, to explore new areas, and literally have a change of scenery.”

The service will run every Sunday until September 28, with all-day fares no more than £8 and concessionary passes accepted.

The volunteers hope to raise more funds in order to extend the service next year.

Mr Blyth added: “We’d like to create an affordable transport system to and around the Moors area that allows people without cars to travel there.

"We want to provide something for both locals and visitors.

"This Sunday is the first piece in the jigsaw. We recognise that it’s going to be difficult, but the goal is worthwhile and I’m sure that we can all get there together.”

* The first service leaves Tubwell Row, Darlington, at 8.19am on Sunday, calling at Stockton High Street (8.49am), Middlesbrough Bus Station (9am) and Guisborough Market Place (9.30am).

It continues to Castleton and the Moors Centre at Danby before going over the moors to Hutton le Hole, Kirkbymoorside and Pickering.