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 Barnstaple.

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 for 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 Brian Greenslade, Devon County Council Leader and Councillor for Barnstaple North, said: "We're continuing to ask people in the county to Do It for Devon, and they have responded magnificently, but there's still more that can be done and using public transport is an effective way to reduce carbon emissions. We have seen congestion in Barnstaple reduce dramatically since the Western Bypass and Taw Bridge opened, and it has also provided better access links that make using public transport easier."

Councillor Chris Haywood, Devon County Council Vice Chairman and Councillor for Barnstaple South, said: "This guide is a perfect starting point for people who may not have used public transport before or if they may not have for a while. While the information is comprehensive, it is presented in a simple format that is easy to understand. The Western Bypass has made using public transport a more realistic option in Barnstaple and I'm sure this guide can help people to leave their cars at home."

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 Brian Greenslade, 01271 372065.

Councillor Chris Haywood, 01271 375121.