SWINDON'S MPs have given their backing to efforts to get more people to leave their cars at home and catch a bus.

Justin Tomlinson and Robert Buckland joined forces with local bus operators, Thamesdown Transport and Stagecoach West, in support of Catch the Bus Week.

The event, which ran until Sunday, is an annual celebration of the bus aimed at recognising the importance of buses to the UK’s transport mix.

Figures reveal that bus users generate £64 billion of benefits to the economy.

Every pound invested in bus infrastructure is said to provide up to seven times as much economic benefit, meaning the industry is seen a vital driver of the UK’s growth.

MP for North Swindon, Justin Tomlinson, said: “As a local resident and regular user myself, I know just how important our bus network is.

“It often acts as a crucial service to the more vulnerable people in our society and of course helps to contribute to the protection of our environment.

“I would encourage all Swindon residents to use their local bus when possible so that services are supported and viable."

Mr Tomlinson was joined by fellow Swindon MP, Robert Buckland, as they met with bosses from Thamesdown and Stagecoach as the campaign came to a close last week.

Robert Buckland said: “Catch the Bus Week is a fantastic time to raise awareness of the benefits of taking the bus and I am pleased to be here today supporting the campaign as a local bus user myself.

“I hope to see the campaign grow from strength to strength in the future as more and more people see how easy it is to travel by bus.”

Paul Jenkins, Managing Director of Thamesdown, said: “As one of the UK’s fastest growing towns, Swindon is an exciting place to be and providing bus services that take people where they want to go, at the times they want to travel is a priority for us.”

Rupert Cox, Managing Director of Stagecoach in Swindon, added: “Buses are a vital part of the Swindon economy.

“Everyday thousands of people across town rely on the bus to get them to work, shops and other leisure pursuits.”