KENT has been praised as being one of the most "bus-friendly" counties in the UK.

A national report launched by the Confederation of Passenger Transport hailed joint initiatives from the county’s transport operators and local authorities that encourage passengers to leave their cars at home and use the bus instead.

The report, On The Move – New Opportunities, New Passengers, highlighted a 50 per cent rise in the number of passengers using Fastrack, a Bus Rapid Transit system developed to meet public transport demand from the Thames Gateway regeneration area.

Nearly 60 per cent of customers rated the service as “excellent” in the report and a further 35 per cent as “good”.

Fastrack’s Project Manager, David George, said: “The figures show that people are prepared to change their travel patterns if a realistic, reliable alternative is offered.”

The report also mentioned Stagecoach’s Thanet Loop service where passenger numbers have increased by nearly 60 per cent in two years.

The service also has four accessible vehicles to meet the increase in over 60’s passengers.

Simon Posner, chief executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said: “For the second year in a row bus use is on the rise.

“On The Move illustrates the great strides made in Kent to provide passengers with the high quality bus services they deserve.

“It is no coincidence that where strong partnerships exist between operators, local authorities and other stakeholders, the results are the most rewarding.”