Bus operator First Wessex has introduced a revised winter timetable for the X51 and X53 services which aligns better with the train timetable at Axminster station.

The revision comes following a retiming of an early morning journey of the X53 service in September, to benefit customers needing to catch the connecting train at Axminster.

The winter timetable, which takes effect tomorrow (Sunday), marks the first time in many years that the X53 will continue to operate seven days a week during the winter months.

Just as in previous winter timetables, the X51 will operate Mondays to Saturdays only.

The bus operator said it used local feedback for the improvements to the X51 and X53 services so bus customers travelling to and from Axminster station will experience improved connections between the bus and train timetables.

Carol Sim, operations manager for First Wessex said: "We saw an opportunity to improve journeys for customers needing to catch a connection train in Axminster station.

"The changes we are bringing in are the result of feedback we have received from the community, and we would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who contacted us with suggestions."

As times have changed, customers are strongly advised to check bus times before travelling. The First Bus smartphone app shows in real time the location of any of First Wessex buses, and the duration in minutes before a bus is due to arrive at a given bus stop. It also shows how many seats are available and if the wheelchair space is in use or not.

By having this information available on the app, customers can make informed decisions when to arrive at a bus stop and keep waiting time to a minimum.

The X51 and X53 buses operate between Weymouth/Dorchester and Axminster, via Bridport and Lyme Regis. You can view the timetable by clicking here.