Supporters of threatened rural bus services urged residents to use them as much as possible in a bid to help safeguard their future.

Increased passenger numbers on the Carnforth Connect, Silverdale Shuttle and Limestone Line services could help Lancashire County Council officers secure outside funding, it emerged at a packed public meeting on Saturday (October 22).

Organiser and Lancashire county councillor Sarah Fishwick said finding alternative funding was now a crucial part of the battle to encourage the county council to continue to operate the service.

Although figures show 27,000 people per year currently use the route, this equates to just three people per bus journey.

"We need people to use the service, even if it's to catch a bus to the other side of their village so they can enjoy the walk back," said Coun Fishwick.

"It's vital that people make use of it during the next month, but we are positive that once residents see how convenient and easy it is to use they will continue to make the most of it in the longer term."

The Carnforth Connect service and Silverdale Shuttle were set up three years ago to provide convenient and affordable public transport for residents living in and between Milnthorpe and Carnforth.

But a Government subsidy used to fund the service has ended, sending operating costs to a higher level than normally considered viable.

Now many residents of the area say they are dependent on the service for transport to and from their homes for work, shopping and appointments.

At the meeting, Coun June Whitehead, of Beetham Parish Council, referred to a new government initiative to provide free bus passes for pensioners: "Just when free bus passes are appearing the bus service is disappearing. People may think it's easier to keep their car because the service might not be there."

While the Silverdale Shuttle has already been cut after 7.30pm, the Carnforth Connect will continue to run until a decision on its future is taken.

In the meantime, residents should take the opportunity to use the service for shopping, to connect to trains bound for Preston and Manchester and for evening social events such as a meal out or cinema trip, added Coun Fishwick.

"It would make a fundamental difference if usage is increased in the next month.

"It would buy those working on the feasibility of the service time to find the extra funding from outside."