VOLUNTEERS from Workington Transport Heritage Trust will be giving up their Boxing Day rest to run a community free hourly bus service linking St Bees to Whitehaven on a day when there are no rail services.

The Trust has run different services on many Boxing Days over the past 20 years, but this is a new venture which connects with the network of Stagecoach services now in operation on the day.

Buses on this extended 'rail replacement' service leave Whitehaven Lowther St hourly from 9.05am to 4.05pm, returning from St Bees village top from 9.35 to 4.35pm, running via the beach in both directions.

Trust secretary Alistair Grey said, "We aim to help people to get to and from work, meet friends, and simply to get out after being cooped up with the family on Christmas Day.

"It also gives us a chance to show off some of our heritage fleet.

"Both buses planned for the service have recently undergone some serious restoration work.

"One has had a replacement engine and gearbox fitted, the other has had much bodyside panelling replaced, and both have had a full repaint."