A NORTH-EAST bus company has confirmed it will operate its bus services to 'current' timetables following the announcement of the third lockdown.

In an update Arriva North East, which operates services in County Durham, Darlington and Teesside, said it would be running to its school holiday timetables until further notice.

It comes as the Government's message has changed to "Stay Home" with all non-essential travel banned in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

SEE MORE: Bus firm explains whether its services will be affected by national lockdown​

Under national restrictions, residents must only leave the home for shopping, work, exercise, seek medical assistance or escape domestic violence.

A spokesperson for Arriva North East said: "As government guidance changes, we want to reassure customers that we will continue to operate our current school holidays only timetables.

"Should we need to make any changes to our services or timetables, as a result of any future government advice, we will update customers as soon as possible via our social media channels, our website – arrivabus.co.uk and via our Arriva UK Bus App."

Meanwhile on Teesside and in Tyne and Wear, Stagecoach North East said it is working to "determine" what changes are required to services in line with demand.

A spokesperson for Stagecoach North East said: "In light of the latest announcement, we will be engaging with local authorities and government to determine any changes needed to service levels based on local circumstances.

"Services will be focused on routes where there is likely to be passenger demand during the lockdown period but will be flexible as passenger demand becomes clearer.

“Where changes are made these will be clearly communicated to passengers in advance online at stagecoachbus.com. For those passengers needing to make essential journeys bus services remain safe with enhanced cleaning taking place, capacity reduced and passengers required to wear face coverings unless exempt.”