Use it or lose it is the message about a community bus service that takes people to Tesco in Wisbech for free if they have a bus pass .

To help spread the word residents of a Wisbech retirement home enjoyed a morning out in the store’s community room which was such a success it could become a monthly event.

Residents from Edina Court enjoyed a trip on the number 68 community bus to Tesco Extra on Cromwell Road, where they enjoyed a coffee morning laid on in the supermarket’s community rooms.

It was organised by Fenland District Council’s Wisbech bus service project, Tesco and Edina Court.

Councillor Simon King, portfolio holder for transport at Fenland District Council, said: ““The previous bus service introduced to provide access to Tesco was withdrawn due to lack of use. We don’t want to have the same thing happen with service 68.

“Section 106 developer funding from the new Tesco retail park development is being used to get the new bus service up and running.

“Once the funding ends the service needs to be able to support itself to continue long term.

“We are looking at ways to encourage more people to try the service so we can attract enough regular users to make it permanent.

“So many people have told me how much they need this bus on this route and we really want to do all we can keep it running for them.

“Throughout the trial we are asking for people’s comments and feedback as we want to get the service right and give it its best chance.”

The Wisbech Tesco Bus Service was launched in July as a 12 month pilot, and needs involvement from the community to ensure its long-term future.

The service is led by project coordinator, Belinda Pedler, and operated by FACT. It can be spotted by the Wisbech Tesco Bus Service logo and signs displayed in the bus windows.

FACT membership is not required and travel is free for bus pass holders.

It runs between Horsefair bus station and Tesco Extra and covers South Brink (Malt Drive), Mount Drive, Ramnoth Road, Weasenham Lane and Queens Road as well as Harecroft Road and North End (Leverington Road).

Timetables are at Horsefair information point, Wisbech Fenland @ Your Service and Tesco customer services.