A BUS operator owned by Greenock-based firm McGill’s has launched a new service designed to help people make their way around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

It is hoped the Trossachs Explorer, run by Midland Bluebird, will play a part in reducing emissions, congestion and parking issues in the national park.

The company has invested a total of £55million in electric vehicles since the end of 2021, placing it in the top three UK for fleet decarbonisation.

The new service will operate between Balfron, Aberfoyle and Callander during the peak summer months, stopping at several popular visitor spots along the way – including Loch Katrine, Ben A’an and Ben Venue.

McGill’s Group managing director Alex Hornby said: “This new partnership with the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority is a prime example of how we work in partnership to deliver sustainable transport solutions across all our communities throughout Scotland.

“Through our operation of the new Trossachs Explorer, Midland Bluebird is well placed to help reduce dependence on the car and reduce the impact of harmful emissions in this remarkable area of natural beauty.”

Gordon Watson, chief executive of the National Park Authority, added: “Tackling the dominance of car travel in the National Park is hugely important for reducing emissions but it will also open up leisure, employment and education opportunities for more people, particularly young people and those who either don’t have access to a car or prefer to use public transport.

“We also know from businesses in the National Park how important it is to have public transport options for staff.”