It will be the end of an era this week when Tim Jennings retires. Tim has been involved with bus operations since 1987, when he set up the Somerbus Company. He was also involved with other coach companies such as Roman City.

For the last two years, Tim has been the owner/driver of the 83 bus, taking pupils from the Paulton area to Somervale and Norton Hill schools.

Having lived in Paulton for a number of years, Tim has always been keen to provide a bus service for Paulton pupils to get to their secondary schools in Midsomer Norton. He is much respected by pupils and parents alike for his renowned tolerance, patience and kindness.

Despite Tim‘s best efforts to get another company to take over the 83 bus route, this has not been possible due to the poor returns of this route.

However, Liz Hardman, Paulton B&NES Councillor and Cyril Mitchard, Paulton Parish Councillor, have been in contact with First Bus. They have had assurances from First Bus that there will be buses available to take pupils from Paulton to Midsomer Norton in time for school for both Norton Hill and Somervale .

Cllr Liz Hardman said: “We owe a huge thank you to Tim for all he has done for our young people in Paulton and we wish him a very happy retirement.”

Paulton Parish Councillor, Cyril Mitchard, said: “There is no doubt that Tim’s retirement leaves a void in school bus services from Paulton. However, after talks with First Bus, I am convinced that with timetable amendments from September 1st, this gap will be filled by services 171, 172, 178 and also the 82 service, which is being run by First Bus from September 1st.”

To commemorate the event, a plaque was presented by Gail Garlick, Chair of Paulton Parish Council to mark the occasion.