A BUS service which also caters for cyclists has been hailed a success after attracting scores of tourists to the Durham Dales throughout the summer.

The Black Grouse Bus was launched earlier this year by Durham County Council to help the rural economy following the foot-and-mouth epidemic.

It brought people from around the region to the dales and looks certain to run again next year.

A trailer was fitted to the back of the bus so that cyclists could take their bikes with them.

The service brought people from Newcastle, stopping en-route at Gateshead, Stanley, Annfield Plain, Consett, Stanhope, Barnard Castle and Hamsterley Forest.

Councillor Bob Pendlebury, county council cabinet member for transport, said: "Some weekends have been so busy on the service that the bus has been completely full.

"We have had people coming to the area for a Sunday afternoon of walking and cycling, perhaps having their lunch in a local pub or visiting the Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, or local shops. It has been a real boon for the area."

The bus has been provided by Stanley Taxis through a grant from the county council and the Rural Transport Partnership, administered by the Countryside Agency.

Dinah Jackson, of the Agency, said: "This service provides a sustainable way for visitors to access the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and also provides a valuable source of tourist income."

The service, part of a pilot scheme, will make its final journey on the last Sunday of this month.

Anyone wishing to find out more about the service can call 0870-608 2608, or pick up a leaflet from tourist information centres.