A bus route that is described as a lifeline for young and old in rural Paulton could be saved after villagers rallied behind it.

The council subsidy for the 82/82A is under review and Paulton Councillor, Liz Hardman, said its potential loss had concerned residents like no other issue. Cabinet member, Mark Shelford, said every single penny spent had to be justified, but he would recommend continued support for the Paulton service.

Cllr Hardman said: “When residents heard this bus service could close, I’ve never had so many emails, letters and phone calls. This surpassed anything else I’ve had.

Demand is increasing for buses – the service needs to be increased, not decreased. At school times the bus is full.

Although it’s a lifeline for the elderly, it’s also important for schoolchildren.”

The 82/82A runs from Paulton to Midsomer Norton and on to Radstock. The subsidy is worth around 84p for each of the estimated 32,000 passengers it carries each year, but Cllr Hardman asked the council to look at its social benefit. She said that the recommendation to continue funding was a tribute to the residents who rallied behind it.