BUS operators are urging North-East passengers to check journey details before they travel because a number of timetable changes come into effect today.

Operator Go North East says the revision of existing services in Derwentside, County Durham, will provide bus users in the area with faster and higher frequency services on morning, evening and Sunday services.

The main changes are:

* Half-hourly express services X30 and X31 from Stanley to Newcastle;

* Four buses per hour between Stanley, Sunniside, Whickham, the MetroCentre and Newcastle;

* Half-hourly frequency on services 43 and 43A, via Tanfield Lea, Tantobie Road Ends, Lintz Estate and Burnopfield;

* Half-hourly frequency on services 44 and 44A via Anfield Plain and Flint Hill;

* An extended service from Stanley Hall Estate to Newburn Road, in Shield Row, via Sheridan Drive, East Stanley Front Street, Hill Top and Pelaw Avenue;

* Half-hourly services from Stanley Bus Station to Quaking Houses;

l Commuter journeys from Newcastle to Consett on weekday afternoons;

* Services between Consett and Newcastle on services 45, 46 and 46A with a 15-minute frequency;

* A 20-minute service between Consett and Delves Lane Estate.

Martin Harris, commercial director at Go North East, said: "Information on all service changes, including new and detailed bus guides, is readily available.

"We would ask all passengers in these areas to obtain a copy of the guide or call customer services to check for any changes to their particular journey."

Timetable guides are available on buses, in local libraries, from Travel Centres or from Go North East customer services on 0845 6060 260.