THE dedicated bus service for Bournemouth’s universities has carried its one millionth passenger.

Unibus was launched in 2016 as part of a partnership with Bournemouth University and Arts University Bournemouth.

Student Chris Madders was named the millionth passenger and was given vouchers to spend.

He said: “I can’t believe it. I travel on the U3 to Charminster most days and I was shocked when I found out that I was the millionth passenger to travel with Unibus.

“I like the service. It’s reliable and the new buses are very comfortable.”

Rebecca Davies, assistant chief operating officer at Bournemouth University, said: “I was delighted to welcome our millionth Unibus passenger. Buses provide the perfect and affordable solution to reducing air pollution.

“By improving the service we offer here, with more comfortable seating, reliable timetables and on-board technology, like Wi-Fi and individual USB chargers for smart devices, we are helping to make sustainable transport a far more attractive option for those who may otherwise journey across the region by car.”

Unibus recently introduced a new fleet of 12 UK-built low carbon emission double decker buses, the most environmentally-friendly vehicles the university has commissioned to date.

The buses feature Euro 6 engines, with technology fitted to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy.