Jonny Kingdom on the Moor Rover
Local celebrity Johnny Kingdom and his wife Julie were some of the first people to enjoy a Moor Rover bus ride on the new flexible public transport service for Exmoor that was launched recently. The service provides access for local residents and visitors alike to areas previously unreachable with public transport.
The Moor Rover is operated by AtWest with funding from the Exmoor National Park Sustainable Development Fund and will run daily from 8am to 8pm throughout the summer until the end of September. Passengers can be picked up from any prearranged location in the West Somerset area of Exmoor National Park and dropped off at any location in the National Park not covered by regular public transport services.
Johnny Kingdom said: “When I go away I can’t wait to get back on Exmoor. It’s very important to look after our countryside and we want people to come and visit, but they should respect the place and keep it looking beautiful. One way that can help is if visitors and residents alike make use of public transport sometimes and this new service provides a brilliant way for people to enjoy Exmoor, all for the price of a couple of pints.”
The Moor Rover minibuses can carry individuals or groups of up to 16 people and can take wheelchairs, bikes, dogs and luggage. Fares are just £5 per single trip (£2 for accompanied children under 16) with a small fee for bikes and dogs.
“We’re delighted to be able to offer this enhanced service this year, following a smaller pilot a project by Somerset County Council in previous years” said Brain Worrall of AtWest. “Those using the service will be able to access linear walks, cycle routes, all ability trails and a whole range of attractions including natural beauty spots, more remote settlements and activity centres for outdoor sports. We can even carry you and your bike to the top of the moors for an exhilarating ride back down or take your luggage between accommodation providers whilst you walk one of the popular long distance walks in the area such as the Coleridge Way or South West Coast Path.”
Dan James, the National Park Authorities Sustainable Economy Officer, added: “Exmoor has so much to offer, and being able to explore the area without the car opens up many more opportunities as well as bringing environmental benefits. Bus travel can provide better views, a break for the driver and savings on fuel and parking costs, to name just a few benefits. In addition with this flexible service you can develop your own timetable and route.”
To use the service passengers need to contact AtWest in advance (ideally giving at least 24 hours notice) by calling 01643 709701 between 9am and 4pm Monday to Saturday. For further information visit www.atwest.org.uk/moorrover.
Leaflets are available on line as well as from National Park Centres, visitor centres and other outlets. Somerset County Council are supporting some of the promotional costs of the service.
