THE sights and sounds of a bygone era of public transport will return to Newton Abbot this September when a fleet of vintage buses takes to the town’s streets.

The ‘Devon General Remembered’ event, organised by the Devon General Society, will be based at Highweek Way and will give visitors the opportunity to ride on historic buses and explore routes across the surrounding area.

The society was formed in 1982 to perpetuate interest in the former Devon General Omnibus & Touring Company Limited.

Its annual events help keep the history of Devon’s bus services alive, bringing together historic vehicles and enthusiasts.

A variety of free bus journeys will operate on Sunday, September 6, with trips ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

Routes will include Sandygate, Ipplepen, Combeinteignhead, Teignmouth, Ideford and Chudleigh, alongside an open-top circular tour.

Travel on the vintage buses is free, although visitors are encouraged to purchase a souvenir programme, either in advance or at the event.

Money raised will help the society meet the costs of organising the event.

There will be dedicated connections from Newton Abbot railway station, making it possible for visitors arriving by train to reach the event at Highweek Way.

Return services will also operate during the afternoon.

Highweek Way is approximately a five-minute walk from the main town centre bus stops in Sherborne Road.

Some of the buses taking part are up to 70 years old and, as a result, are not designed to carry wheelchairs.

Small wheelchairs that can be folded may be carried in luggage areas, subject to space.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, while small, well-behaved dogs on leads may travel at the conductor’s discretion.

Full departure times will be available in the souvenir programme and displayed at the Highweek Way bus stop.