Salisbury grandparents are being urged to help the environment and take the bus whilst on summer holiday babysitting duties.

With many local grandparents taking up extra babysitting duties this summer, Salisbury Reds is urging them to leave their cars at home when visiting the city - and take the bus instead.

The bus operator wants more city centre visitors to choose sustainable transport, in a bid to reduce congestion and emissions - particularly during the busy school holiday period.

“Many grandparents are feeling the pressure of helping out in the summer holidays - and most youngsters just love buses,” said Salisbury Reds head of communications, Nikki Honer. “There are so many things to see and do in-and-around Salisbury and those who haven’t travelled by bus for a while will be amazed at what you can see from the top deck. The world looks so different up there!”

To help keep costs to a minimum during the school holidays Salisbury Reds has lowered the cost of its child fare to £1 for any single trip. And youngsters under 7 can travel for free when accompanied by an adult.

Local Nan Susan Humphrey, 69, said: “My two grandsons are five and eight and they just love going on the bus - they are always pointing out things along the way.

"And, as I have a concessionary pass, it really is a great way of entertaining them during the holidays whilst their mum is at work. It allows me the spare cash to treat them to an ice cream when we are out enjoying the parks.”

Teenagers seeking a summer of independence can also take advantage of the bus and avoid asking mum or dad for a lift - with the child ticket applying to all those aged under 19.

For more information, visit salisburyreds.co.uk