County Hall cost-cutters are being urged to see sense over their plans to axe an evening bus service in Ashwell.

Ashwell Parish Council has called proposals to remove the service offered by the 91 bus which takes commuters to Ashwell and Morden railway station ‘illogical’.

They believe that the threat to cut funding to the bus service could leave commuters stranded and increase the amount of parking issues throughout the village.

In a letter written to county and district councillors, the parish council raised concerns that losing the bus service could lead to people being forced to drive to the station, more than two miles away, and park on the grass verges in Station Road.

According to the letter, this would be ‘hazardous’ as there is ‘no street lighting in the vicinity, which has security and safety issues, particularly for those arriving back home in darkness.’

Ashwell parish councillor Daniel Matthews, who regularly uses the service, said “We hope Herts County Council will see sense and continue to support funding of this vital service.

“Many can’t understand why they would consider withdrawing a vital bus service which is a shining example of how public transport should work.

“It links bus and train services while supporting rural and environmental policies in a vibrant and growing rural village.”

North East Herts MP Oliver Heald said: “These local transport matters are very important. Ashwell cannot be left with a bus service to the station in the morning only.

“To do so would force many into the use of private cars, which would further congest what is already a busy area.

“I urge the county to consider the parish council’s representations, which I support.”

The results of the consultation on bus cuts is due to be presented at a County Hall meeting on Tuesday.