THE Moorsbus Network in the North York Moors now has a new bus ticket - one of the first of its kind in the UK.

Trialled on Moorsbus last year, the “Donate Ticket” enables passengers to make a small additional contribution to keep the bus running.

Last year it raised more than £1,000 – enough to keep two buses on the road for a day.

Eden Blyth, one of the Moorsbus directors said: “We’re both proud and humbled that so many people want to help in this way. A big percentage of our passengers use a bus pass which gives them ‘free’ travel for the day, but comes at a cost to bus operators who – on rural services – are only reimbursed a tiny percentage of the normal fare.”

Run by volunteers but using professional bus operators to supply drivers and environmentally-friendly buses, the Moorsbus Community Interest Company has been running the service for six years.

“During this time we’ve increased our operational days, the number of buses and the places served,” said Mr Blyth.

“And our volunteers do everything: from designing the timetables and website, to leading guided walks and fundraising.”

Moorsbus fares start at £1 and the all-day, travel anywhere Moors Rover ticket is £9.50 with four children travelling free with a fare-paying adult. Concessionary passes are also accepted.”

Donate tickets” are £1, £3 and £5 and sold on each Moorsbus. Money raised will go to improving bus local services.