RESIDENTS of several Lune Valley villages could see improvements to bus services by Christmas this year.

Travellers using the number 81 Lancaster - Hornby - Kirkby Lonsdale route could see daytime buses restored to Gressingham, Arkholme and Whittington under changes mooted by Lancashire County Council.

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The council has increased its bus network budget to £3 million and says it aims to "restore lost links" between rural communities across the county.

Once detailed timetables have been drawn up, the routes will be put out to tender, with improved services likely to start from December 10, says the council.