Devon County Council

From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, April 23, 2008

A NEW guide has been produced by Devon County Council to encourage more people to use public transport in Newton Abbot.

The 'Guide to catching the bus or train' is promoting public transport as an environmentally friendly way of getting to work, the shops or for leisure trips.

The 10-page booklet is an introduction to using the bus or train, containing helpful tips on a range of money saving tickets to suit both regular and occasional travellers, as well as listing the main routes in the area.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "Using the bus or train can be part of a day-out as well as commuting. By choosing to switch from the car to more sustainable forms of transport we can all cut our carbon footprint and do our bit to make Devon even greener. Travelling by bus or train can help reduce congestion, cut pollution and improve the environment."

Councillor Gordon Hook, Devon County Councillor for Newton Abbot South, said: "The more cars that are left in the garage and the more use that is made of trains and buses, the better it is for reducing pollution in our environment. I am determined that we should find ways to improve air quality in Newton which in turn means there is less risk of breathing related health problems. We're also fortunate that the train ride to Exeter must be one of, if not the finest in Britain."

Councillor Anne Fry, Devon County Councillor for Newton Abbot North, said: "The guide has all the information you need and it is easy to understand. I am sure that this will help many people who may not have used public transport for a while or may not have used it before. With rising petrol prices, using the bus and train can work out as a cheaper alternative to the car and it's a good way for everyone to do their bit for Devon."

The guide also provides useful contact details for Traveline on 0871 2002233, DevonBus 01392 382800, and National Rail Enquiries 08457 484950.

Copies are available from libraries, council offices and tourist information centres or by emailing travelwise@devon.gov.uk.

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers, 01297 680384.

Councillor Gordon Hook, 01626 362070.

Councillor Anne Fry, 01626 368054.