More infoDerbyshire council’s highways chief has told how the authority has been unable to find an operator to ‘replicate’ a lost and much-needed vital bus service which now bypasses a rural village and has left residents feeling isolated and stranded for around six months. Since then campaigners who described the number 55 bus service as a ‘vital lifeline’ for Morton have been appealing for help because the only alternative villagers now have is a ‘dial-a-bus’ with bookings on demand which they feel is ‘inadequate’. A Derbyshire County Council spokesperson has stated: “Given the significantly high subsidy level per passenger required to reinstate the 55 to Morton and the upcoming transfer of transport powers from Derbyshire County Council to the East Midlands Combined Authority on March 31, 2026, Derbyshire County Council has decided not to fund the reinstatement of the 55 service. “That means that if the county council doesn’t change its mind soon, it is highly likely that the village will be without a bus service for least another 18 months. It was a vital lifeline for residents, especially the elderly, disabled people, students, and those commuting for work or appointments.