Buses at the double on key route for commuters

Passengers travelling on Service 72 between the two cities – via Stanningley Road, Bramley and Thornley – will now be able to catch a bus every 10 minutes after bus operator First increased the number of buses on the popular commuter route to six an hour.

Richard Harris, commercial director for First in West Yorkshire, said: "We have reacted to the demand for extra buses on the Leeds to Bradford route and are delighted to double the number of buses we run on Service 72.

"I am sure our customers will appreciate the extra choice we are giving them by increasing the frequency of our buses, which now means they can now catch a bus every 10 minutes Monday to Saturday daytime.

"We believe this offers car and train users in the area a very real alternative form of transport, especially in terms of price and frequency."

First has launched a marketing drive to encourage car and train users to try out the bus.

A giant clock face, advertising a bus every 10 minutes, will be placed on the side of the new modern double deck buses which travel along the 10-mile route. There will also be leaflet drops to thousands of houses on the route promoting the new service and offering competitions.

The double deck buses that operate on Service 72 boast the latest Euro IV engines designed to reduce both emissions and pollution.

Each vehicle has air conditioning and double glazed windows to maintain a comfortable temperature for customers, regardless of the weather.

First claims the buses are user friendly with low floor access for all passengers – in particular making it easier for parents with pushchairs, wheelchair users and those who are less mobile to get on and off the bus.

All of the buses are fitted with interior and exterior facing CCTV, helping to provide additional security and protection for passengers.