A new bus service has been launched in North Derbyshire to provide Clay Cross residents with a direct link into Chesterfield.

The new mint green spira buses also stop in Sutton and replace the 241 service between Clay Cross and Mansfield.

At an event in Chesterfield market place, the new service was launched by Heather Ward, a local woman who has raised tens of thousands of pounds for a leading breast cancer charity.

Pictured here is (L-R) Glenn Pearson, Brand Manager for spira, Heather Ward of the Namesake Charity and Alex Hornby, Commercial Director

Explained Commercial Director, Alex Hornby: "Heather is a real local star and we asked her to be guest of honour at the launch celebrations in recognition of her work for our Namesake Appeal, which supports the Derby Breast Cancer Unit.

"Heather lives close to Clay Cross in nearby Stretton, and the fact she comes from one of the communities that will benefit from the new service also made her an obvious choice."

Heather said she was delighted to be asked along to the launch, and to have the opportunity to raise the profile of the appeal that enables members of the public to name a bus in return for a £100 donation.

"Every penny of the donation goes to the Derby Breast Cancer Unit and through the generosity of many local businesses, families and individuals we have so far raised around £80,200 for this very worthy cause," she added.

The new spira buses - which benefit from the latest environmentally-friendly engines, designer interiors and convenient push-buggy zones - have been introduced following extensive research by the bus firm and in response to customer feedback.

Although the section of the old 241 service between Sutton and Mansfield will no longer run, transfer fares will be available for customers wanting to travel on to Mansfield from Sutton the nines and rainbow 3 services.