BUS users in Knutsford have at long last been given a timely boost after the service that takes passengers to Wilmslow and Altrincham was made every half hour.

GHA coaches will be officially launching its upgraded Knutsford to Altrincham '88' service at Tatton Park tomorrow, Wednesday, October 22.

The service – which will also link up to Wilmslow train station – will hit the road for the first time on Monday, October 27 and will call every half hour at most stops along the route.

The first bus in the morning will leave Knutsford at 6.40am, getting to Altrincham, via Wilmslow at 7.35am. The last bus to depart in the evening from Knutsford's bus station leaves at 6.25pm.

If you want to pop into Knutsford in the evening, the final bus of the day into Knutsford arrives at the bus station at 7.20pm.

GHA Coaches told the Guardian that the improved service, rebranded 'GHA Gold', aims to appeal to commuters seeking an alternative to making the journey by car and those travelling on via Metrolink to Manchester city centre and beyond.

The firm have invested in a fleet of four new Enviro 200 buses to cover the route, with leather seats, tables and free WiFi, and super-low level entry for easy access.

Guests from transport groups and businesses en route will be welcomed to the official launch tomorrow by Stephen Bryce, general manager at GHA Coaches.

The improved route now also takes in Wilmslow Station and Altrincham Road with additional stops near Waters.

Cheshire East Council, who awarded the five-year contract to GHA, hopes that the new service will appeal to more commuters as well as shoppers wishing to travel by sustainable means, reducing traffic congestion and CO2 emissions.

Clr Stewart Gardiner, ward member for Knutsford, said it was good news.

"The older population in Knutsford need to be able to get about, so it's good news," he said.

"They've got to get out and about and visit friends elsewhere and with winter approaching this is good timing.

"The service will also bring people into town and support our vibrant and varied retail economy. At night they can get in for events like the Christmas lights switch on for example."

Wimlsow Clr Rod Menlove added: "I welcome this initiative as it has the potential to appeal to a new customer base drawn from the business community who habitually currently use a car. The interconnectivity with the rail network is the key point and I am pleased that the request for a stop at Wilmslow railway station has been met. With a service of this high quality, why bother to travel by car."

Special introductory fares are on offer for the first four weeks of the service and commuters can enjoy travelling for up to 50 per cent less.

In addition, System One tickets are valid from Wilmslow to Altrincham.

To visit the timetable click here