People living in the north of the Island are being invited to make use of a new on-demand bus service to the airport.

Bus Vannin launched the connectPORTS initiative on Monday – and ties in with a patient transfer scheme which began in July.

It means the cost of providing the service is reduced by generating income from spare seats.

MHK Jason Moorhouse has responsibility for Public Transport - he said: “Demand responsive transport is having a real impact in rural areas in the UK and this trial is the latest step in examining how successful it can be on the Island.

“Its future will depend on how well it is picked up, of course, but the plan is to extend it to other areas in due course.”

Bookings can be made by residents who live in the north, including Kirk Michael and Laxey, for any journey starting from the passenger's home after 5am and leaving the airport until 9.30pm each day.

The bus will wait if your flight arrives late.

A standard flat rate fare of ?10 will apply for adults – children are half price.

Journeys can be booked up to 21 days in advance and up to 4pm on the day before departure by calling 697440.