First expands in Cornwall

First Kernow is to further expand its bus network. From February 2015, First will begin operating new services which will link St Columb Major and St Agnes with both Truro and Newquay. This latest announcement follows previous news of new routes in the St Austell area adding to the company’s extensive network. From the 5 January, Wadebridge, Fowey, Par, St Blazey, Mevagissey, Bodmin, Roche and Bugle will join the operator’s network. The company has announced a number of expansions to its bus network in recent months. In September 2013, it was awarded the contract by Cornwall Council to operate Truro’s Park and Ride service; on 3 November it began operating new routes between St Austell and Newquay and between Truro and Newquay; and on 5 January it will begin a range of new services in the St Austell area.

MD of First Kernow, Alex Carter, said, ‘This is great news for bus customers in St Columb Major, St Agnes, Truro and Newquay. From February we will begin operating high quality bus services which will provide much needed links between these important communities. We will reveal exact details of our new services in the New Year – we’re both excited by the prospect of further extending our network and determined to provide the best service possible and attract more people to bus travel. The number of people travelling with First is growing, which is enabling us to expand our business. Over the last year or so, we’ve worked incredibly hard to improve our services, especially punctuality and reliability, and encourage more people to use the bus. Our efforts are being rewarded – indeed in a number of cases we are seeing increases in passenger numbers in excess of 10%. I’m confident that passenger growth will continue enabling us to expand our services further. These are exciting times for the company and our loyal, hard working staff who have supported us for so many years.’