There will be a rural bus service for several north Carmarthenshire towns and villages including Llandysul and Newcastle Emlyn.

This is as a result of a new initiative introduced by Carmarthenshire County Council, following the cabinet's approval on Monday, March 18.

The Bws Bach y Wlad service is set to replace Bwcabus service, which ended due to insufficient Government funding.

Residents in north Carmarthenshire were left with no mode of transportation following the service's discontinuation.

The new service, designed as a village hopper, will provide better public transport accessibility in the rural areas.

Operating for five days a week in its nine-month pilot phase, the service will offer free transport for concession holders and reduced rates for youngsters.

The service aims to connect locals to places with economic opportunities, stimulating growth in rural areas.

The initiative will initially focus on regions around Pencader, Llandysul, Llanybydder, and Newcastle Emlyn.

This aims to underpin the broader 'Hwb Bach y Wlad' service delivery provided by Carmarthenshire County Council, which looks to ensure that residents have reliable transport options in areas where regular services are lacking.

The project team will work in close collaboration with Community Transport providers, Dolen Teifi and Preseli Green Dragon, to avoid duplication and improve the service network.

The strategy is to provide a well-integrated and consistent public transportation system for all.

Cllr Edward Thomas, Carmarthenshire County Council’s cabinet member for transport, waste and infrastructure services, said: "We are excited to launch the Bws Bach y Wlad bus service, a significant step towards addressing the transportation requirements of our rural communities.

"Carmarthenshire County Council is proud to have successfully secured funding for this fantastic 9-month pilot operation.

"This aligns with our commitment to providing reliable and convenient transport options, fostering economic development, and enhancing the overall quality of life for our residents."

The service is funded by the UK Government UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Bws Bach y Wlad bus service is set to start on April 29, 2024.

Further information including the timetable can be found on the council's website.