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Loss of ACL buses is "serious blow to Weston and the villages" says local MP John Penrose

18 August 2009

MP for Weston-super-Mare John Penrose today voiced residents' dismay at the news that well-known local bus company ACL went bust last night.

Mr Penrose said: "This is a serious blow for local people, whether they live in Weston or surrounding villages like Hutton and Sand Bay. ACL's orange buses and cheerful service have been a feature of our town for some years now, and they provided a useful alternative to First Buses to maintain a decent bus network in and around Weston. It's particularly disappointing for people in villages like Hutton, where ACL had recently taken over the local bus service after First decided to drop it.

"It isn't just the passengers who are affected, of course. All ACL's employees and their families will be understandably worried too. Clearly, Weston needs an alternative service as quickly as possible, which is why I've already spoken to North Somerset Council about the problem. It’s too early to say for certain, of course, but I hope other bus operators may help to fill the hole in our bus services which ACL has left."