AN ENVIRONMENTALLY friendly way of viewing scenes of snowdrops on Exmoor will be put into action once again with a park and ride scheme starting in February.

Exmoor National Park Authority will be starting the scheme to allow visitors to enjoy the snowdrops in Drapers Way, Wheddon Cross, without taking their cars into the valley.

Last year more than 7,000 people enjoyed seeing the flowers through park and ride, which now provides an important boost to the local economy.

This year Draper's Way will be closed and the park and ride operation will run during February from the Sunday.

During this period road closed signs will be displayed at the entrance points to Drapers Way and buses will operate a frequent service between 10am and 3pm from Wheddon Cross car park where parking is free.

The last bus back up from the valley will be at 4pm.

The bus fare is £2 per adult, children between five and 15 50p. Infants under five travel free.

Disabled drivers and mini bus drivers with passengers who are unable to use the buses should drive to Wheddon Cross car park to pick up a pass and a map with instructions.

For more information contact Brian Moore on the Snowdrop valley hotline on 01398-322286 or Dulverton visitor centre on 01398-323841.