A SPECIAL bus service that ferries patients and visitors between Newport bus station and the Royal Gwent and St Woolos Hospitals will continue to operate after agreement between health and transport bosses Difficulties with financing the popular service had led to fears that it might be discontinued, but now Newport Transport, who run the service, and Aneurin Bevan Health Board who provide a subsidy for it, have thrashed out a way forward.

But there will now be a charge of 60p per journey for users who do not have a free bus pass. An Aneurin Bevan Health Board spokesman said the new charge is vital, to support current subsidies and ensure the service's future.

Passengers who have free bus passes make up close to two thirds of the 116,000 people who use it every year.

The service has become a valued and convenient method of transport to and from the hospitals, particularly for those who do not have transport of their own, or who do not want to have to brave the queues for parking, particularly at the Royal Gwent.

It is also considered by health bosses as a small but important weapon in the fight to reduce the number of car journeys to and from hospitals, especially important at the busy Royal Gwent, where on-site parking is extremely limited and the nearest car park, at Mendalgief Road, is often full.

To maintain the bus service without interruptions, the charges for non-bus pass holders will be introduced from tomorrow.

The new arrangement will be monitored to ensure visitors and patients are not disadvantaged and the service continues to meet community and NHS needs.