CONCERNS and frustrations over the future of bus services in the Wee County were heard at a virtual summit this week.

MSP Mark Ruskell hosted his summit in a bid to improve services on Monday, November 28.

Nearly 50 people joined the discussion, with strong representation from the Hillfoots, airing frustrations.

Following the event, Mr Ruskell said: "Over the past months I've heard from so many of my constituents about their frustration with local bus services – from reliability and timetabling, to affordability and the quality of vehicles.

"I was delighted to see such an amazing response to our virtual summit with folks sharing their experiences of bus services where they live and their vision for improvements.

"It was a good chance for bus companies to hear directly from their customers and commit to improvements.

"There was good discussion about issues such as demand responsive transport and the potential role of community run services in more rural areas.

"Too often, rural communities like those in Clacks have been left poorly served by our bus networks."

Mr Ruskell expressed disappointment that McGill's, which recently took operations over in Clacks, was unable to attend.

However, he hopes to engage with company chiefs in the near future.

The MSP added: "Everyone across Scotland deserves a reliable, affordable and accessible bus service.

"The challenges facing the network are stark, but our meeting last night is proof that our communities are full of exciting solutions and ideas for change."

In 2023, the Green representative will be looking to work with individual communities to drive forward improvements to services.