An online petition against the cutting of the evening Stagecoach bus service between Sidmouth and Sidbury has gathered more than 700 signatures.

From 31 July, the number 9 service that goes from Exeter to Sidmouth and then Honiton via Sidford and Sidbury, and the number 9A service that goes from Exeter to Sidmouth and then Seaton via Sidford, will continue - but the Monday to Saturday evening service will only go between Exeter and Sidmouth, with the Sidmouth and Sidbury evening service withdrawn.

The changes come amid the 'current nationwide shortage of bus drivers', according to Stagecoach, meaning it needs 'to concentrate our resource on the services where demand is greatest to ensure that vital journeys and connections are maintained'.

The petition has 784 signatures at the time of writing.

Corinne Sycamore, who started the petition, described the evening service as 'vital', saying that it is used by workers and villagers to get to and from Sidmouth and is beneficial to the local economy. She also said that the road between Sidford and Sidbury 'is too dangerous to walk day or night'.

Click here to view the petition.