Coach operator Kings Ferry says it has not ruled out bringing back commuter services if they become viable again.

The Gillingham based firm announced yesterday that its service from Kent and Medway to London would be axed from next Friday, Christmas Eve, after 40 years of operation.

National Express confirmed the service used by thousands of passengers had been ceased because of reduced demand created by Covid-19 lockdowns, but says no jobs are at risk.

A statement issued today reiterated the reason for the decision but said the route could be reinstated in the future, but there were no current plans to do so.

"As with the need to make any changes, we have not taken this decision lightly," said the operator. "Pre-Covid 19, this was a popular service carrying over 1,200 customers a day. When the pandemic hit, the service was suspended and when it did restart, it was on a much reduced basis based on demand. We have since tried a number of options to effectively operate but it is simply not commercially viable to continue to do so.

"We have contacted customers to advise them of the decision and are working with colleagues affected to minimise the impact to them.

"There are no current plans to reinstate the service. We will monitor the situation and if circumstances change in the future, we will look at ways to bring back commuter services on a viable footing."

The company says no jobs are at risk, as alternative work is available for staff.