Night buses will now be available in Torbay, running into the early hours of the morning every Saturday from 2 November until 21 December, providing a safe travel option for people who are out in the evenings.

Set up by Devon & Cornwall Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, the night bus service also has our support.

The service has been funded by the OPCC as part of the Street Focus: Torquay project, a multi-agency approach to bring real, long-term change to the area and increase community safety.

It also links in with our Operation Town Centres plan to make our town centres more safer and welcoming for all.

A successful night bus trial in North Devon and Newquay this summer resulted in a significant reduction in antisocial behaviour and drink and drug-related incidents during the evening and night-time economy.

Devon & Cornwall Police aims to see the same trend following the introduction of the buses in Torbay.

The night bus services (route 12) will be provided by Stagecoach and single journeys will cost just £2. The service will operate on Saturdays over the festive period, plus Friday 20 December – also known as ‘Builders’ Friday’ and New Year’s Eve, in a bid to reduce drink and drug-related incidents.

Inspector Chris Lithgow, who looks after local neighbourhood police teams in Torquay, said: “We know that as we approach the busy festive season, we’re going to see an increase in the number of people visiting Torquay to enjoy the great night life the town has to offer.

“Alcohol and drugs affect a person’s ability to accurately judge a situation which can contribute to issues such as drink or drug driving, violence against women and girls and antisocial behaviour.

“Torquay remains a safe place to live, work and enjoy a night out but our hope is that these night buses will make it even safer by offering partygoers a cost-effective and convenient travel option to get home safely, and in turn, reduce the opportunity for drink or drug-related incidents to take place.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, who is also chair of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership, said: “Everyone should be able to get home safely, whether they’re coming from work or a night out. The night bus service provides an easy, affordable option for late night travel, helping to reduce the risk of drink or drug-related incidents. We’re committed to ensuring Torquay is a safe place to enjoy an evening out and I hope people take full advantage of this service throughout the festive season.”

Councillor Adam Billings, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking, added: “This service will be particularly welcome for women planning a night out. I hope it encourages more people to think about visiting our town centres over the festive season to enjoy our thriving night-time economy.”

The service runs hourly from 12:30am until the early hours of the morning across Torquay, Preston, Paignton and Brixham.

Full details on the times and locations of the buses