A BUS service has proved just the ticket with the public for two decades.

The 903 was introduced by Jacksons of Silsden – under the Rural Bus Service scheme – on December 6, 1999.

Drivers past and present gathered to mark the forthcoming milestone.

And on the day itself, there will be a celebratory free prize draw for passengers and giveaways of sweets and cakes.

Company director, David Thornton, said: “The decision to tender for the service was my dad Brian’s idea, as he believed you should always look for new opportunities in business. When we started the service we had absolutely no experience with stage carriage and had to learn quickly.

“I’m proud of what we – particularly the drivers on the route – have achieved over the last 20 years, taking a concept and making it a vital, reliable and friendly service. Many people would be stranded without it.”

The 903 operates around Silsden to Steeton & Silsden Railway Station, Airedale Hospital and Keighley, Mondays to Saturdays.