VILLAGERS are calling on a bus operator to rethink its proposed changes to the timetable which will leave them with a limited number of travel options.

Arriva has published a revised timetable for Hurworth which comes into effect in two weeks time following a period of consultation.

However, some residents are unhappy with the changes and have launched a petition calling for them to be reversed before the changes are implemented from February 17.

Joan Simpson has handed out petition forms at a number of places around the village to garner support and has so far secured almost 300 signatures.

She said: "They have completely changed the timetable which will make it difficult for people to get too and from the doctors, for example. The company did consult with bus users last year but we have had no feedback until they announced the changes starting on February 17.

"Everybody I have spoken to thinks the changes are wrong but no-one from the company has come forward to explain it's decision to us.

"We are working really hard to get the decision changed. We have started the petition and are calling on as many people as possible to support us and get Arriva to change its mind.

"We have left the petition all around the village because the changes will affect everyone. Just having the bus service on a one-way route reduces the number of buses people will be able to use on a daily basis."

Arriva has issued the following advice for passengers, it reads: "A revised route and timetable will be in operation following a review of passenger usage and service punctuality, along with utilisation of the results of a passenger survey undertaken in November 2018.

"In Hurworth, all Service 12 journeys are revised to operate to a one-way loop, with buses omitting Emerson Avenue and operating Neasham Road, The Green and Croft Road in a westbound direction –all journeys will operate in the direction towards Croft.

"In Middleton St George, all journeys will operate via Virginia Estate, following requests from residents for a more regular service for the area and the medical centre.

"There will be a revised timetable throughout."

For details about the proposed timetable changes to services across the region visit www.arrivabus.co.uk/north-east