MAJOR changes to Taunton's bus services take effect on Monday.

They are part of countywide cutbacks including the loss of some services completely, announced by First late last year.

The managing director of First's bus operations in Somerset, Brian Noton, said: "We've carried out a full review of our services in Somerset which has shown a small number of mostly rural and school services are uneconomic.

"These routes are being modified or withdrawn, but we've worked closely with Somerset County Council to provide alternatives as far as possible for the small numbers of customers affected."

Full details of the service changes will appear in this week's edition of the Somerset County Gazette. They will also feature in new timetable booklets available from bus stations shortly and can also be obtained by calling Traveline on 0870-6082608.