LOCALS can get the bus or pick up a copy of the Forest’s favourite newspaper or even a book at a bus shelter which now doubles as an unofficial library.

The shelter on Coleford Road in Tutshill is officially for people using the 707 bus between Chepstow and Coleford which operated three days a week by Forest Community Transport.

But Tutshill Women’s Institute spotted an opportunity to get it used more and they are hoping other communities will follow their example.

Lyn Fletcher of the WI said: “I asked if the WI could adopt the bus shelter and the amenities committee on the local council also agreed. We want to use it as a book swap with a shelf for children’s books.

“We also want to put a few little seats in there together with a notice board and leaflets about walks and things in the area. I was thrilled when I saw that it was a drop-off place for the Review.

“It’s good to give back to the community and it starts a thread of good feeling. We thought it would be a nice idea if it caught on and lots of communities tidied up their bus shelters.

“We’re grateful to Chepstow Garden Centre and Catherine Grey Flowers whose donations have helped brighten it up.