‘FOOTBALL Special’ bus services to help Oxford United fans across Oxfordshire get to home games will continue for the new season.

Thames Travel has announced its OX3 and OX7 services will provide travel to and from the Kassam Stadium on match days, with pick-up and drop-off stops at regular points.

The OX3 starts at Carterton and picks up at Brize Norton, Witney, Eynsham and Botley.

The OX7 picks up at various stops in Kidlington and along the Banbury Road, Marston and Headington.

Double-decker buses will run throughout this season for all league matches with cup games decided on an individual basis.

The bus company's managing director Phil Southall said: “The Football Special bus services builds on the success of last season’s operation which saw us help ensure supporters could get to home games."

Mr Southall said Oxford United fans had also benefited particularly from the new 'Uber for buses' Pick Me Up service run by Oxford Bus Company, of which he is also managing director.

The service, where users hail a ride on a app, has come under fire recently from residents with learning disabilities for being difficult to access, and also from a woman who was left stranded after her ride was cancelled without anyone letting her know.

Oxford Bus Company said it was looking at whether it could adapt the service to various users' needs.

In the meantime Mr Southall said he was glad that many Oxford United fans had found it useful.

Oxford United’s club secretary Mick Brown added: “It’s good news for everyone because a number of fans rely on the bus services to get to matches.

"Hopefully it will help as many people get along and support the club as possible."