BUS timetables and tickets can now be obtained from a new travel centre in Chester-le-Street.

Bus operator Go North-East has opened the centre in Front Street, near the Market Place, and the town's main bus stops.

Travellers can obtain information on local bus services, and buy the company's Go 'n' Save and Explorer tickets.

They can also obtain information on coach and rail tickets for national travel, breaks and holidays in Britain and Europe.

The centre is manned by Tracy King, 35, of Chester-le-Street, and Christopher Stewart, 20, of Brandon.

Mr Stewart said: "The travel centre has had a very good response, particularly from elderly passengers who still prefer face-to-face contact rather than talking to someone on the telephone.''

Ms King said: "We have been made very welcome by customers who believe that having a Go North-East travel centre in the town is really useful."

The centre is the firm's fifth. The others are at Consett, Stanley, Bishop Auckland and Washington.