A COMMUNITY bus service that serves as a 'lifeline' to residents has received a cash boost of almost £8,000.

West Oxfordshire Community Transport was given £7,750 from housebuilder Mactaggart & Mickel, which will go towards the service's running costs.

The not-for-profit organisation provides daily scheduled bus services connecting residents with family, friends and amenities.

Its 15-seater minibus operates the 213/214/215 services across the town, while the 210 route connects nearby villages to Witney and Chipping Norton.

Margaret Burden, director of West Oxfordshire Community Transport, said: “The bus is absolutely great, it’s a lifeline for people in rural villages where there’s no public transport.

"For those with no alternative, it’s absolutely critical and connects them with family and friends."

Mactaggart & Mickel is constructing 31 three-and-five bedroom homes at its St Jude's Meadow development in Milton-under-Wychwood.

The company is contributing to the village community as part of its planning requirements, including making donations towards sports, play and recreation facilities and areas as well as enhancing public areas on the land.