PEOPLE in Hay-on-Wye are benefitting from a unique 'Bank Bus' scheme.

A minibus takes people from Hay to Brecon so that they can get over-the-counter bank services or use other facilities no longer available in the town.

It's part of the Hay Dial A Ride scheme, which is supported by the Community Transport Association (CTA) and has received Lottery grant money.

The original Hay Dial a Ride scheme celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and helps 6,500 passengers make journeys in and around the area annually.

Lesley Moore, Chief Executive of Hay Dial a Ride, said: “The bank bus service will not only mean that our existing 300 service users can continue to access banking and other facilities but it will also enable us to target other people who could benefit and require such services.

"By enabling people to travel together, the ‘Bank Bus’ will continue to have a positive impact on individual wellbeing by reducing loneliness and isolation while also improving quality of life.”