A SCHEME to offer cheaper bus travel in Southampton has been extended after "extremely high" demand throughout summer. 

The five for £5 bus travel offer is set to continue at weekends throughout October after proving a success during the school holidays. 

The scheme was launched after the city council partnered with three bus operators to offer a discount on group tickets. 

This meant five people could travel around the city all day for just £5. 

READ MORE: Temporary £2 cap on single bus fares in England, Transport Secretary announces

Initially brought in to encourage groups and families to spend time exploring the city, the scheme saw a "huge take-up".

Cabinet Member for Transport and District Regeneration, Cllr Eamonn Keogh said: "Demand for the 5 for £5 group ticket has been extremely high this summer, with around 23,000 tickets being sold."

Announcing the extension, Cllr Keogh added: "We are aware that the cost of living is increasing rapidly and we hope that this will help to ease the cost of transport – especially for families.

"This transport offer is just one way the Council is helping residents to navigate the financial crisis. I’d urge anyone who is struggling to get in touch with us so we can signpost them to local support services and charities." 

The offer applies at weekends on Bluestar and Unilink services, City Red services or Southampton Mini Link buses.

Each ticket is only valid on the operator's bus service that it was purchased from.

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