The ‘Rivington Rambler’ bus is running for a second year this summer, offering an easy and more sustainable way of getting to Rivington Country Park. It will run every Sunday and bank holiday (including the Platinum Jubilee) through to Sunday 23 October.
This year the bus, operated by Diamond Bus North-West, will provide a direct link from the train at Horwich Parkway from 10.25 each hour and connect with trains back to Bolton and Manchester. It will also run via Horwich Town Centre and Lever Park Avenue and Rivington Lane.
The service is funded by train operators CrossCountry and Northern, as well as Transport for Greater Manchester. Horwich Town Council and Community Rail Network have been supportive of the initiative.
The bus will stop on request, where it is safe to do so, in Rivington and use normal bus stops in Horwich, including The Beehive, Victoria Road, Leisure Centre, Sainsbury’s and The Crown (Stand B on Lee Lane). All normal concessions will be valid on the bus.
Paul Salveson, Chair of the South-East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership, which is promoting the service, said, “We’re delighted to be able to run the Rivington Rambler once again, this time with even better links to the train. It will also offer a connection from the train at Horwich Parkway to Horwich town centre.”
John Robson, CrossCountry Regional Director, West Midlands and North West said, “We are proud to be supporting South East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership again this year with funding towards their Rivington bus project. It’s important to give passengers a sustainable option via public transport so as the domestic car isn’t the first option when travelling. This initiative stood out as it brings both bus and rail together in a collaborative way promoting leisure locally.”
Chris Jackson, Regional Director for Northern, said, “We are confident that the service will encourage our customers to get out and about to explore all the fantastic activities which are available in the West Pennines area.”
Bob Dunn, Managing Director of Rotala plc said, “I am delighted that Diamond Bus will be working with the South East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership to provide a special service once again to the beautiful area of Rivington.”