The Heather Hopper bus service, linking Strathdon and Deeside with Strathspey, made a welcome return in July.

A pilot re-introduction of the Heather Hopper - which was withdrawn in the 1990's - is being supported by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), Aberdeenshire Council and The Highland Council.

This cross-Park bus service is a first for the Park and offers visitors and residents alike the opportunity to explore the National Park using a more sustainable form of transport. 

Launching one of the services in Ballater Cllr Bruce Luffman, an Aberdeenshire Councillor and CNPA Board Member, said: "With 80 per cent of visitors coming to the National Park by car and many residents feeling they need a car to get around, it is important that residents and visitors alike have the choice to use forms of transport that are less damaging to the environment."

For more timetable information:

• D&E Coaches on 01463 222444
• Stagecoach Bluebird on 0870 6082608