THE future of an under-threat school bus service has been secured for the next school year.

From September pupils in Brockhall and Old Langho faced the prospect of having to catch a lift from parents or even walking to school in Billington.

But following discussions at county council level the service will run for at least the next year.

Councillors welcomed the news saying it was an important victory for common sense and reason.

The move that has secured the route has been taken by Lancashire County Council transport chiefs who have added an extra stop on to an existing service.

The bus that has been travelling through Mitton will make an extra stop in Old Lango and Brockhall to ensure that children can get to school in Billington, in particular St Augustine's RC High School.

The decision comes as a result of discussions with head or transport at the county council Tony Martin, and councillors representing the area.

The service had been under threat and would be one of many routes to be cut over the last 12 months.

In March, 18 routes in East Lancashire were cut just months after some fares were hiked by 100 per cent.

It also comes in the wake of an announcement by county council that any vehicles parked on zig-zag lines outside of schools would be hit with a £60 fine in an attempt to ensure child safety.

Coun Chris Holtom, who represents Ribble Valley at county council level, said he was pleased with the outcome.

He said: "The threat to withdraw the school bus service was a serious one and it's great news that it's going to keep running.

"This is a victory for common sense and helps out quite a lot of families. In reality it's not that far for children to walk but there are windy country lanes around there which can be dangerous and it's right that they have an option.

"These services are vital and it's important that discussions have led to the continuation of this bus route.

"This is one piece of good news, other services may not be so lucky in future."