VICTORIOUS campaigners were celebrating last week following news the 324 bus route had escaped the axe.

County Hall bosses recommended on Tuesday that the popular bus route should run more frequently in light of a high-profile Surrey Mirror campaign to save the route plus pressure from angry bus users.

However, the news was tinged with disappointment for some passengers as they learnt the Ironsbottom and Hookwood section was being scrapped.

At a County Hall meeting Paul Millin, Surrey County Council's group manager for passenger transport, told members: "The 324 was a service that caused a lot of angst locally. People were very concerned as it serves a population of elderly and disabled residents and they were worried about the proposals."

At the end of 2009, county chiefs announced they were looking at ways to reduce the cost of Surrey's bus provision, which is subsidised to the tune of £11 million a year.

The axe loomed over a number of routes, including the 324 and the school special services.

But after a torrent of objections following a consultation which ended in January, council officers recommended these services stayed.

Mr Millin added: "I must point out one area of concern and that's Ironsbottom and Sidlow."

He explained that the area was covered by a Buses4U service which could be "promoted" in the area once the 324 was withdrawn.

Peter Lambell, county councillor for Reigate Central, said: "It's positive news for most people although not so for the residents of Castle Drive, Ironsbottom and Sidlow. But it means Meadvale still has a bus service and the residents of Fir Tree Walk will be pleased.

"The petitions – both the Surrey Mirror's and Val Milesi's – made a real impact helping to highlight the problem."

Other changes to the area's service includes reduced frequency on the 460 service between Tadworth and Redhill, a reduction in the Fastway 20 evening and Sunday service, and an increase in the 324's frequency to incorporate the lost 430 service between Meadvale/St Johns and East Surrey Hospital.

A new Service Park 25 is also being introduced which links in with the 324, Redhill, Reigate, East Surrey Hospital and Horley, which is being funded by developer contributions.

Sandra Jones, of Timperley Gardens, who is disabled and uses a scooter to get around, said she was delighted with the news. She said: "I am so glad the 324 is staying otherwise I would be really stuck."

Last Tuesday members of the Transportation Select Committee unanimously agreed to back the recommendations.