A threatened bus service has been saved from the chop after hundreds signed an online petition to save it.

First Bus and SPT have U-turned on their plans to scrap the number 49 bus, which runs through South Park Village, Priesthill, Pollok and Govan.

The hourly service is used by locals to visit main shopping areas, such as Govan Arcade and Silverburn, and also takes patients and visitors to the new Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.

As reported in yesterday’s Evening Times, more than 1000 people pledged their support for an online petition set up by Pollok councillor David McDonald, calling for it to be saved.

The SNP councillor also demanded First improve the service, and said removing it would increase isolation among elderly people and those without their own cars.

Mr McDonald has welcomed the U-turn, and said: “I’m grateful that SPT and First Bus have agreed to work together to keep the 49 service on the road.

“This is a vital route for my constituents in Greater Pollok and for people across Glasgow.

“It’s practically the last bus that operates on Brockburn Road, one of the busiest main roads in my ward.

“I started a petition to save this service and it attracted more than 1000 signatures in less than a week. So it’s clear that there is a demand for reliable, clean and safe public transport. I’m glad that First have listened to my calls to reserve this cut.

“Greater Pollok is a growing community and we need more not less bus services. I will continue to campaign hard on behalf of my constituents to deliver better public transport.”

Alistair Watson, Labour councillor for Craigton, which is also serviced by the 49, welcomed the decision to keep the bus as well.

He said: “ I spoke to SPT and First as soon as I found out the service was under threat.

“It will now be continuing almost uninterrupted. If anything, this issue was causing real worries with residents.

“This one was a rollercoaster. I received about 40 emails from people who were really concerned about it.

“I think SPT realised it would have quite a hit on the local people in this area, and I’m delighted it will be continuing.”

An SPT spokeswoman said: “A temporary contract will be awarded to First Glasgow which ensures continuation of the service meantime while longer-term arrangements are put in place which secure the future of service 49.”