PASSENGERS using the park and ride service in Taunton are being warned to expect potential delays.

First time user Paul Hopkins was left waiting for a bus for 45 minutes yesterday (Wednesday).

Afterwards he tweeted: "First time using the @BusesOfSomerset park and ride today.

"Excellent journey into the hospital (where he works)…. but had to wait 45 mins for the return journey bus to turn up.

"Back to driving into work from now on."

A Buses of Somerset tweet apologised for the problem.

It said: "Very sorry for the delay.

"We are experiencing a high number of staff absences and it’s affecting all services at present.

"Our drivers are working their days off and admin and supervisors are also driving."

Mr Hopkins replied that he will "try again next week" after all.

Buses of Somerset runs two park and rides sites in Taunton - at Silk Mills and at Gateway, near the M5.

The sites are currently free to use in an effort to ease potential congestion from roadworks.