ONE of the country's favourite rural bus services is returning this weekend, promising extra runs for visitors to the North York Moors.

The Moorsbus service restarts on Sunday, providing transport for visitors from towns and cities throughout the North-East and North Yorkshire.

Last year, 120,000 journeys were made despite some routes being altered because of the foot-and-mouth epidemic.

National park transport officer, Bill Breakell, said: "Services this year have been extended to make it even easier to get to scores of places, including most of the area's main attractions. Prices have been held for the fourth year and the use of low-floor buses on most routes makes it especially good for those with children or the elderly."

Last month, a simplified Moorsbus service operated, including a shuttle to serve visitors wanting to see the famous Farndale daffodils.

New services include a route through Dalby Forest to Forge Valley and the Cleveland Way Explorer, which reaches previously inaccessible points. For details, call (01845) 597426.