A TRIAL shuttle bus service set up by RSPB Arne to connect Wareham train station and the nature reserve has been extended. 

The mini-van will now cover the winter period up to the end of the Easter holidays on April 12, running Monday to Friday during school breaks. 

Children travel free on this service during the school holidays with fare paying adults.  

This extension means visitors can enjoy the winter wildlife that can be seen at RSPB Arne, which was the star of BBC Winterwatch earlier this year. 

It is proposed this service will run again from May to September 2024, with organisers hoping for a more regular service. 

Steven Booth, Purbeck community rail officer, said: “We are so pleased to be involved in this project working with our partners as it supports our aims an objectives to promote sustainable joined-up transport by linking the railway and bus to one of Purbeck’s most picturesque attractions.  

“RSPB Arne remains one of the few places in the UK where all six of the UK's native reptiles can be found situated on Poole Harbour and within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.” 

Rachel Martin, RSPB Hyde’s Heath project officer, added: “This is a valuable service for those who can’t drive or don’t have access to a car to be able to come and visit RSPB Arne. 

“Whether visitors choose to leave their cars at home, don’t have access to a vehicle, we hope our service 2RN will enable more people to enjoy RSPB Arne’s fun nature trails, wonderful wildlife, and stunning views at any time of year.”