A new operator is set to step in and save a threatened school bus route after plans emerged to scrap the service at the end of term.

Last week the Bucks Free Press reported Carousel Buses’ plans to stop running the BB16 service from Marlow Bottom to Wycombe – which came as a blow to students who use the bus daily.

The commercial company said it has been forced to withdraw the service as it is not “economically viable” – however it has now confirmed a new operator has been sourced.

Exact details  are yet to be revealed, however Carousel says the companies are working together to ensure a “smooth transition”.

Last  week BCC’s education chief, Mike Appleyard, said Carousel had initially failed to tell the council it was planning on withdrawing the service.

However Carousel’s managing director, Phil Southall, insists the council was informed as soon as the decision was made.

Mr Southall, said: “We informed the council right at the outset that we intended to withdraw the service and have worked proactively with them throughout to find another operator who was willing to continue it.

“A new operator has been sourced and the final details are currently being worked through to ensure a smooth transition.

“Unfortunately, we had to take the decision to withdraw the service as it was not economically viable for us to continue to operate it.”