A bus service taking passengers between two towns has been taken over by a new operator today.

Chalkwell has now taken over the running of the route between Sheerness and Sittingbourne from this morning.

The service is key for many residents in Swale by taking and returning them from the Island to Sittingbourne.

Previous operator Arriva officially cancelled the service yesterday, alongside nine others.

It cited the loss in council subsidy and a lack of passengers for terminating the routes.

Yet Chalkwell, founded in 1931 when its first journey took passengers from Sheerness to Stoke Newington, has now taken over the running of the service as of this morning.

Speaking earlier this summer, managing director of the company, Roland Eglinton, said: “The 334 service provides a vital link for the people of Swale.

“In recent years the service has been downsized but users can look forward to an expanded service with buses every 30 minutes throughout most of the day.

“Areas such as Iwade are growing rapidly, so there is an even greater need for buses which we are aiming to meet.”

Passengers wishing to travel from Sheerness to Maidstone will still be able to do so.

They will need to transfer to the Stagecoach X3 service in Sittingbourne after arriving from the Island.

The X3 also serves Canterbury and Faversham.

Passengers wishing to use the 334 service can do so every 30 minutes at a maximum price of £2 for a single fare.