EXTRA buses are being laid on to cope with the phenomenal demand from Eastleigh fun seekers eager to catch a slice of the Southampton nightlife.

Last month the wheels started to roll on a special bus service which provides borough residents with a safe and cheap trip home from Southampton's popular night-spots.

It follows a partnership forged between Solent Blue Line and Eastleigh Council which is funding the new Nitebus services.

Just three weeks after its launch, hundreds of people are using the service with the 2.15am buses proving the most popular for dedicated night owls.

Last weekend the 2.15am service to Chandler's Ford and Eastleigh was full.

This has prompted the council to provide another bus that will be used as a back-up for any regular Nitebus service that is full.

Nitebus co-ordinator Sarah Wallbridge said: "The response to the new service after just three weeks has been fantastic.

"In particular the 1.15am and 2.15am services have been very popular."

Council and bus chiefs have already taken steps to make sure that no one is stranded if there is no room on the bus.

Sarah added: "We are pleased to be able to provide a back-up bus in response to demand from local people who want to get home safely.

"The last thing we want to do is leave people behind at 2.15 in the morning."

The Nitebus services run from Southampton's most popular nightspots back to Eastleigh, Hedge End and Hamble providing safe late-night travel for only £2.