IT HAS yet to be confirmed whether Santa had anything to do with saving the 65 bus from Chepstow to Monmouth, but he has been seen helping out with the service. Taking a break from his countless tasks in the run up to Christmas, Santa treated the passengers of the 65 bus to an exclusive treat, by taking the reigns of the 65 bus itself.

The 65 bus runs from Chepstow to Monmouth along the picturesque Wye Valley high road through the villages of Itton, Devauden, Llanishen, Trellech, The Narth, Penallt and Lydart. The bus is popular with visitors as it offers views of the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons.

Passengers found out in 2018 that the 65 bus route was due to be closed. Passenger-led action succesfully saved the route after a hard fought campaign. Friends of the 65 Bus - Rosemary, Jane and Brian - would like to thank Monmouthshire County Council, the Passenger Transport Unit and all the drivers who have kept the service running through 2021. The bus was particularly important to passengers during the pandemic, getting careers and employees to their work.