A petition has been started to save a “lifeline” bus service.

Councillor Tim Williams, who represents Stanborough, is urging Hertfordshire County Council to provide financial support to the R8 Mullany’s shopperbus service, which will be axed on April 1.

The R8, which connects Bedmond, Abbots Langley, Kingswood and Nascot Village to Sainsbury’s, ASDA and Watford town centre, is popular with elderly residents living in sheltered accommodation at Tanners Wood Court, in Oak Green.

READ MORE: 'It's their lifeline': elderly people unable to do weekly shop as bus service is axed

But it is a commercial service and Mullany’s plan to scrap the route, along with the 346 service.

The 346 service, which runs from the Meriden and Tudor estates to Watford town centre, will stop before the end of March.

Cllr Williams said: “These estates are home to many elderly people, as well as residents on low incomes who don’t have their own car.

“These estates face losing their only bus service if the R8 is withdrawn - this would be a terrible blow to so many people who rely on the bus to access vital services, go shopping and visit friends and family.

“This is a commercial route and unfortunately bus companies can withdraw services if they are no longer profitable. But for residents who rely on them, buses are a lifeline.”

READ MORE: Bus company intends to axe 'lifeline' bus services

In a letter to Councillor Derrick Ashley, county council cabinet member for transport, cllr Williams said residents face “lengthy walks” to access alternative services.

He urged the county council to make all, or part, of the route a socially necessary bus service so residents without a car can “maintain their independence”.

To sign the petition, visit: www.watfordlibdems.org/r8bus_petition