BUS operators across Oxfordshire have launched a new system to help passengers stick to social distancing.

Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel customers making journeys as shops re-open from next week will be able to check buses live on the company websites to see how busy they are via a new innovative feature.

The ‘When2Travel’ tool will use unique predictive technology to help passengers avoid busy times while capacity is reduced to enable social distancing.

The feature offers colour coded bus timetables that show seat availability on services.

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It uses a passenger counting system on the ticket machines, plus data that has been submitted by customers.

The operators have also implemented reduced vehicle capacities to help maintain social distancing on-board for people who need to travel – this includes taking some seats out of use.

Customers are still asked to pay using contactless payments or purchase tickets online.

Phil Southall, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel managing director, said: "Our priorities have been cleanliness, social distancing and establishing a convenient way for customers to plan their journeys with confidence."