BUS bosses and councillors came together to celebrate the launch of a new extended bus route.

Bluestar Seven will fill the void left behind by First Southampton’s axed 12 service.

The extended Seven route will now cover Lordshill, Millbrook, Southampton General Hospital and the city centre.

It will follow the same route as the First 12, which was cut earlier this month.

Andrew Wickham, Bluestar managing director, said: “At Bluestar we listen to the views of local people about their requirements for travelling across Southampton.

“We’ve worked closely with Southampton City Council to preserve services for customers living along a large part of the ex-number 12 route.

"In early February, we will alter it slightly - to service Lords Hill Way, rather than Aldermoor Road.

"Our customers won’t lose out because the Bluestar 17 service already covers that area."

City transport chief, Cllr Jacqui Rayment, said: “It’s great to see Bluestar continue to invest in Southampton services - ensuring those living and working along this route continue to have easy access to sustainable transport."

Coxford's Putting People First councillor, Tammy Thomas, added: "After being dealt another disappointing blow in the withdrawal of the First Bus, Bluestar have come to the rescue, again.

"It is a much needed and valuable resource to many residents."