A FORMER Stagecoach manager has set up a private bus company that will create 35 jobs.

Businessman Richard Cranmer created Darlington and District Services Limited (DDSL) and has won the contract to run 15 bus routes in and around Darlington.

Mr Cranmer, who managed Stagecoach's operations in the town for four years, expects the contracts to generate a turnover in excess of £1m in its first year.

Operating under the name Green Bus, the venture is seen as a complement to the Government's long-term strategy to reduce congestion in town centres by providing improved public transport.

Darlington Borough Council was awarded £1.07m by the Urban Bus Challenge, a Government initiative designed to meet that long-term congestion strategy.

Part of the grant aid has been used by the council to buy four new buses, which will be run by DDSL.

The company has purchased five second-hand buses and is renting four.

The first of the 13 buses goes into service tomorrow.

If the Darlington operation proves successful, the company will look to expand into other areas.

Mr Cranmer, who used his savings and money from the Royal Bank of Scotland to fund the venture, said: "I have got myself on the list of tenders for County Durham, North Yorkshire and the various Cleveland authorities.

"I will grab every opportunity that occurs."

Mr Cranmer was assisted by Darlington chartered accountants and business advisors Clive Owen and Company in getting DDSL off the ground.

Peter Taylor, corporate finance associate director at Clive Owen, said: "Richard has created a great new business with the potential to develop and grow in the future.

"The service he is providing to the public is of extremely high quality and the buses are an efficient and enjoyable way to travel. Richard's entrepreneurial spirit is an inspiration."

The Green Bus depot is at Henson Road, on Yarm Road Business Park.

It will service routes in and around Darlington, including from Whinfield, Red Hall and Faverdale to the town's Memorial Hospital, and bring people into the town from rural parts of the borough and County Durham.