The pilot project to test support for a Knowstone Community Bus lasted four weeks and ended on Thursday 22nd November.

The bus, kindly provided by the Exe Valley Market and Community Bus Committee (EVMCB), made the trip from Oakford, through Roachill, East Knowstone, Knowstone, Mill Bridge and into South Molton Market on four Thursdays in November. 

A total of 36 passenger return journeys were made, an average of 9 passengers per trip, showing over 50% loading on the bus capacity.

The bus was driven by Simon Edwards from EVMCB who earned everyones grateful thanks for the professional and cheerful service provided.

Given the positive feedback from passengers and residents, and the positive support from the Knowstone Parish Council, discussions are now under way to explore ways to introduce a dual route service – alternating South Molton one week, then Barnstaple the next – starting from the first Thursday in April 2013.

To help make the service a reality and a success there is a need for volunteer mini bus drivers from the Knowstone area to join the established EVMCB team of drivers. With a pool of 6 drivers a volunteer would only have to drive the bus once in every 5 or 6 weeks, and also be available as an ’emergency back up’. To find out how you can help, please contact: John Smith on 01398 341764.