A shuttle bus service aimed at encouraging more people to travel by public transport was launched yesterday.

The Stockton Shuttle, which links Stockton High Street to Thornaby Railway Station via Teesdale business centre, runs every 15 minutes Monday to Friday, from 7.45am to 6.15pm.

Service 525 is the result of Stockton Borough Council's successful Urban Bus Challenge bid for £262,500 and will be operated by Stagecoach. The council identified a need to improve public transport in this area through its travel planning work with the University of Durham, Stockton Riverside College and Teesdale Business Association.

The travel plans identify the need to improve public transport in order to provide a better service for bus users, as well as encouraging car users to leave their vehicle at home and use the bus or train.

The service also provides a vital link for visitors arriving at the newly-refurbished Thornaby Railway Station