GREATER Manchester transport bosses have received a funding boost of more than £2 million from the Government.

The cash is being made available to introduce innovative transport schemes to reduce what Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) describe as social exclusion in urban areas.

The funding has been awarded via the Government's Urban Bus Challenge. It will go towards several local transport schemes, the expansion of the Manchester and District Transport for Sick Children and the continued operation of the Greater Manchester Call Centre. This unit books, schedules and despatches certain transport services throughout the county.

Welcoming the Government boost, Authority chairman Councillor Roger Jones said:

"Public transport can make a really positive impact on areas which experience social exclusion and is an essential dynamic of urban regeneration. The authority is committed to playing a part in regeneration and in promoting social inclusion, and this funding will play a major role."