A new coach service connecting Bridport to Plymouth, Portsmouth and more will start later this month.

National Express is running the 190 Portsmouth to Plymouth service which will stop at Southampton, Bournemouth, Bridport and Exeter and will have a daily service in each direction, Monday to Friday from Monday, June 21.

Chris Hardy, managing director of National Express UK Coach, said: "We're excited to play our part in the UK public's safe return to travel.

"We want to make coach travel more convenient and with greater value in 2021.

"We've removed the booking fee for any purchases made through a National Express online account and included more options to claim a refund or amend a journey if circumstances change."

From the beginning of the pandemic, a no quibble amendment or full refund within 28 days was offered to all customers and more than 100,000 coachcards have been extended by 12 months.

Chris added: "This is just the beginning of a better National Express. We've always focused on doing the right thing for customers and by continuing to do so, we will grow back quicker and stronger."

This includes investment in making the coaches one of the greenest fleet on the road. The average age of a vehicle is three years old and every one meets the highest possible engine emission standard.

Covid measures in place include:

• Enhanced cleaning in both stations and coaches, including regular 'fogging' disinfection
• An additional filter on the air conditioning systems of all coaches to reduce bacteria and viruses and to improve air quality
• Temperature screening before allowing travel and anyone with a high temperature reading not allowed to travel and given a full refund
• Provision of PPE and use of protective screens on vehicles and in coach stations
• The requirement for customers to wear face coverings when in stations and travelling on coaches, in line with government guidelines

Chris said: "Like the rest of the population, we look forward to being able to see friends and family, go on holiday, attend events and visit attractions again. National Express has always helped make this happen and we look forward to doing it once more."

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