A POPULAR bus route between Largs and Glasgow has been recognised at a prestigious transport award ceremony.

The Clyde Flyer 901 and 906 service, which carries locals and tourists between the seaside town and the city, was named a silver winner in the 'top express route' category in the UK Bus Awards.

The scenic route, operated by McGill's, has seen an increase in customer numbers since Covid, with weekend leisure travel now above 2019 levels which has increased the need for extra buses on busiest journeys.

McGill’s was also named as a silver winner in the Environmental Innovation category for the company’s net zero efforts and in the 'shire category' of the Bus Operator of the Year.

We previously reported that the Clyde Flyer route had been hailed as the third most scenic in the UK.

McGill's also announced last week that additional buses will operate on the 901 and 906 services, which also serve Greenock, Port Glasgow and Braehead, in the run up to Christmas.

READ MORE: Clyde Flyer route is described as third most scenic in UK

Alex Hornby, group managing director at McGill’s, said: "This is another momentous occasion for everyone at McGill’s as we celebrate winning four prestigious awards at the UK Bus Awards.

"It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in providing outstanding services and embracing environmental sustainability.

"The Clyde Flyer's silver win in the top express route category reflects not only its remarkable increase in customer numbers but also our ability to adapt and excel even in challenging times.

"We're proud to see weekend leisure travel surpassing 2019 levels - and this will increase further as additional buses are added in the lead-up to Christmas.

"We are starting to see increased passenger numbers and improved customer satisfaction and that is down to the hard work the team has put in over that period - with more to come as we move forward.

"As we celebrate these wins, our thanks go to our colleagues, customers, stakeholders and suppliers for supporting McGill’s over the last year and continuing to help our journey towards sustainability, innovation, and providing exceptional service to the communities we serve."