Bus operator First issues important updates about South Yorkshire services

Giles Fearnley, First Bus managing director said: “While many other businesses have made the difficult decision to close their doors, buses are different.

“We are very proud to be serving you at this time and particularly proud of our frontline teams who are showing tremendous resilience, dedication and overwhelming professionalism.

“Those of you who are continuing to travel on our services will realise that we have seen a huge decline in passenger numbers – around 90% in most areas. In light of this and working in consultation with local authorities, we are focusing our efforts on maintaining those services which are fundamental to those who need to access hospitals and other NHS sites and shopping centres and their workplaces.

“We have been listening to your feedback on our timetables and where we identify sufficient need, we have been making adjustments. In some areas we are running bespoke shuttle services for the NHS. If you want to talk to us about a service that as a key worker you need, or you are concerned about social distancing due to the numbers travelling on a particular service, do contact us via our website www.firstgroup.com/coronavirus.

“We have acted swiftly to respond to Government advice to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of our passengers and colleagues. This includes a more intensive cleaning regime on our vehicles and in our depots and running additional buses to avoid overcrowding at any particular time on a route. Our drivers are equipped with gloves and hand sanitisers and by far the majority of our buses have protective screens.

“We ask that customers who have bank cards, use contactless to pay. Where customers don’t have such a card, we urge you pay with the exact fare.

For up-to-date service information visit the website. Latest timetable information is on the First app.

The customer service line is open from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours you can contact via Twitter between 9am and 5pm and on weekdays between 7am and 7pm.