The short-term future of the 130 bus service looks to be secure, with funding in place to keep buses running until March 2021.

The service, which runs between Macclesfield and Handforth, was set to be axed by operator D&G Bus on October 3.

Following a procurement process by Cheshire East Council, D&G are set to continue running the route until March 31 using funding from the government.

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of CEC, who has responsibility for strategic transport, said: "This is really excellent news for our residents and in particular those who rely on this service to meet their transport needs – to go shopping, access health care, visit friends, or simply get out and about for their health and wellbeing.

"We can only secure a long-term solution, however, if the government fulfils its promise to adequately fund local councils for the additional costs of the coronavirus pandemic.

"We have received repeated assurances from government that councils will be fully compensated for costs incurred in the fight against Covid-19 – but we are yet to see the promise meet the forecasts. This council faces a shortfall of £28 million without additional government funding.

"Cheshire East Council is far from unique – councils across the country are facing the same significant challenges. That is why we continue to work alongside other councils and organisations like the County Councils' Network and Local Government Association, to lobby government to fully deliver on its promise."

New 130 services will now run hourly Monday to Saturday, with CEC officials claiming the council is seeking funding to ensure the long-term sustainability of the 130 service beyond March.