SUPPORTERS of a valued bus service turned out in droves to walk the length of its route in a bid to raise funds vital for its survival.

Friends of the X112 organised the sponsored walk between Barrow and Coniston which took place on Saturday.

The bus, which is run by Blueworks Taxis Ltd, is in desperate need of donations since council budget cuts meant subsidies were scrapped.

Barbara Harris is a member of the group and despite being poorly, turned up to support the service on Saturday.

She said: "It was absolutely brilliant and what a great atmosphere.

"We are counting the money but we think we might have about £1,000.

"It was worthwhile even just for the atmosphere; everyone mingled and talked to each other."

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Mrs Harris believes the service is a lifeline to elderly people who can use their bus passes to get out and about and enjoy some company.

She said: "I really feel passionate about the service because we need to give people a way to get out.

"For them it's as important as a health visitor because loneliness is a big issue and, at the walk, everyone talked to each other and it was great."

Barbara and her husband, Roger, are also keen to encourage young people living along the route to ditch their cars and hop on what they believe is one of the most beautiful routes in the UK.

Previous fundraising has seen a cook book endorsed by Hairy Biker Dave Myers raise more than £6,000.

Next month, an art auction will be taking place at the Fishermans Arms Hotel, Baycliff, from 2pm until 5pm with work donated from local and national artists available to bidders.

Mrs Harris hopes to have around 30 different pieces available ranging from watercolours to oils and photographic works.

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