BUS users in north Essex will get two for the price of one after a successful bus partnership was agreed.

Passengers travelling along the 88 bus route between the village of Great Yeldham near Halstead and Colchester can now hop aboard both First and Hedingham buses with the same ticket.

The Route 88 Partnership is a voluntary agreement between the operators initiated by Essex County Council.

Councillor Eddie Johnson, who is the Cabinet member for highways and transport, added the change will bring about improved vehicle standards and accessibility.

He said: “This is a great demonstration of bus companies working with the council to help increase the quality of service provided to the public.

“I’m sure users of this route will be delighted by the new deal which offers greater choice no matter who they buy their route 88 bus ticket from.”

Customers can use day returns, day returns, weekly, monthly and annual tickets on both operators.

It will see bus users saving them money while also getting better flexibility on what buses to use for their journeys.

Alex Jones, managing director of First Essex, said: “This coordinated approach will provide customers with total flexibility. We want residents to embrace this initiative and encourage family and friends to take advantage of the 88 service.”

Gavin Hunter, managing director of Go-Ahead East Anglia for Hedingham, also welcomed the partnership.