Days out beating two weeks away

Rochdale families are swopping their annual summer holidays for value days out, according to a bus company.

Despite this summer’s mixed weather, bus operator First says Rochdalians have become “staycationers” - stopping at home rather than jetting off for sun, sea and sand.

Use of the Rochdale operator’s Family FirstDay tickets has increased by 68 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Bosses say this shows that more families are opting for bargain days out.

The recession will also be a major factor, with cash-strapped residents looking to spend their money wisely.

Claire Johnson, commercial director for First Manchester, said: “The stay-at-home trend means that more families are exploring their own region and discovering fun days out that won’t break the bank.

“Greater Manchester offers many wonderful attractions, from museums and parks to canal and railway trips, many of which are free entry.”

To help families make the most of the summer break, First has put together a guide to the region’s top attractions and is offering passengers special promotions including discounted tickets and a chance to receive a free FirstWeek ticket - allowing the passenger a week of free unlimited travel on all First services.

First in Manchester carries approximately 100 million passengers each year and operates 900 buses.

For more information on the promotion and First’s guide to the region’s attractions visit:

• www.firstgroup.com/daysout