From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, March 30, 2007

THE Okehampton Fare Car scheme is being extended from Monday 2 April.

The Fare Car F12 service, funded by Devon County Council, runs at regular intervals, according to demand, from Monday to Saturday. It operates to and from Okehampton, from villages including Beaworthy, Black Torrington, Chilla, Highampton, Inwardleigh, Northlew and Sheepwash.

From next week it will also include Bratton Clovelly and Germansweek.

The Fare Car, run by Tors Taxis, runs to fixed arrival and departure times in Okehampton, similar to a bus service. It stops at Market Street, Okehampton Hospital, the medical centre, Exeter Road Industrial Estate and Okehampton Rail Station. The car will collect passengers from any address or point in the rural area that is accessible by car.

The service also runs to Exbourne and Jacobstowe from 17:30 onwards, and there is also a daily service to Folly Gate leaving Okehampton at 22:30. The fare is £2.50 per single journey.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council's Executive Member for Environment, said: "For people living in rural areas without regular bus services, the fare car is a practical and affordable alternative. It's perfect for anyone who may wish to travel for shopping, medical appointments, leisure and also for work and education.

"On my last visit to Okehampton, people were delighted with the service there so I am pleased that it is being extended further afield to benefit more communities."

For more information, ring 01392 383481 or log on to the website at: www.devon.gov.uk/devonbus

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers 01297 680384