• Proposal to withdraw all First Bus services in Cornwall in 2026 

• Above inflation costs, falling passenger numbers and an increasingly competitive market have led to difficult decision 

• Focus is on supporting colleagues and a smooth transition 

• X43 Express to begin on Saturday 22 November
• Hourly service operating throughout weekends
• Strong demand anticipated in build up to festive season

• Additional services to run from 9 November to 21 December
• Increased frequency at all six sites on Friday, Saturday and Sunday

• 5,700 buses across the country providing free journeys
• Wear military uniform, badges or show driver Service ID card when boarding
• First Bus has a strong affiliation with the Armed Forces, with many veterans working for the business  

This week the Government’s Bus Services Bill received royal assent, paving the way for a major overhaul of local bus services in England. Janette Bell, Managing Director for First Bus, which serves 1.5 million passengers every day, shares her views on what the new powers for local authorities mean for local bus services, and how renewed collaboration between councils and bus operators is key to making this new future a success.