A Hampshire-based bus operator has announced it is set to increase its ticket prices from next week.

Stagecoach, which operates a route between Romsey and Winchester, is set to increase the majority of its ticket prices on services across the country.

The company has said that single fares remain capped at £2 as part of an agreement with the Department for Transport, ensuring affordability for passengers until at least the end of 2024.

James O'Neill, Commercial Director for Stagecoach South, said: "Reviewing our fares is essential to ensure we continue to deliver and grow our network of bus services across Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex. 

“We understand that any change in pricing requires careful consideration.

“Following an extensive review of increased running and operational costs, we’ve strived to minimise the impact this will have on customers and kept any increases as low as possible.”

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He added: “Revenue from fares is vital to pay for day-to-day costs of running bus services, continued investment in new vehicles, technology and other customer improvements.

“Bus travel remains fantastic value for money, and we’ve been conscious to keep ticket prices affordable and sustainable for customers, with some ticket prices unchanged.

"Our numerous multi-journey ticket options offer unlimited travel across specific areas – the more you travel, the more you save.”