Anne Benson, who works at York District Hospital but lives in Harrogate, has taken advantage of Transdev's new Yorkshirexpress service between Harrogate and York, travelling by bus for the bulk of her journey, before completing the last mile of her journey on her folding bicycle.

This allows her to leave her car – the family's second vehicle – at home.

"My new journey by bus and bike is proving to be better for me and my family. We're saving money as we no longer have to pay the rising cost of petrol or car parking, and it saves me the hassle of finding somewhere to park at the hospital," she said.

"Travelling by bike is also an excellent way of keeping fit and healthy, which is something very important to me as a nurse.

"The bus also lets me relax before I start work and after a busy shift."

Dave Alexander, Managing Director of Transdev Harrogate & District, said: "Our new Yorkshirexpress service has given people more opportunity to leave the car, reduce their carbon footprint and do their bit to help our environment.

"We are delighted to hear that it has already led to someone giving up their car completely to travel to and from work.

"With a little thought, Anne has really been able to make the most of our new service by bringing her folding bicycle.

"As these are more compact when folded down, we are happy to accept these on all our services, subject to luggage space being avaiable."

In its first two months, the service has proved so popular that from July 28 it will run hourly from Monday to Saturday.

There will also be an earlier journey from Harrogate, arriving at York Railway Station at 7.59am, with return journeys in the afternoon departing York at 4.35pm, 5.35pm and 6.35pm, providing more flexibility for commuters.

l Harrogate Car Free Day takes place on Wednesday, September 24.