USERS of the 581 bus from Ingleton to Horton-in-Ribblesdale are confident their service has been reprieved.

The 581, along with several others across Craven, was part of a transport review carried out by North Yorkshire County Council.

A £311,000 shortfall in the amount needed to maintain the district's current bus services meant the county council was forced to look at cutbacks.

There was an outcry when the service, which serves Ingleton, Clapham, Austwick, Giggleswick, Settle and Horton-in-Ribblesdale, was first earmarked to be axed.

But a report taken to the executive on Wednesday did not recommend the 581 service for withdrawal.

County and town councillor David Heather told the Herald this week: "The recommendation put forward and accepted by the executive was against withdrawal of the 581 service.

"However, there is a five-day period when objections can be made about the decision so, although I am optimistic, I cannot honestly say it has been saved until that period is up."

However, it hasn't all been good news.

The X84 Leeds to Skipton service will be withdrawn on evenings and Sundays between Ilkley and Skipton. The council noted the service attracted just five per cent of usage within North Yorkshire and the move would save £44,952 per year.

Users of the Skipton to Richmond 807 and 800 and 805 West Yorkshire to Hawes services will also see an increase in fares on Sundays over the summer. This will save nearly £40,000 per annum.

The Skipton to Malham 210 and 843 Saturday services will be promoted as part of the council's "commitment to support a leisure network for the Dales" but will be reviewed for next summer.