Sidmouth’s free summer bus service was ahead of schedule when it picked up its 10,000th customer of the season – a fortnight earlier than last year.

The Hopper normally reaches the milestone in mid-September, but it appears that the word has got out – ‘it’s brilliant for the town’. Bristolian Amanda Homer took the title, with her son Sam her envious predecessor, as well as husband Tony and dog Busa.

“It’s a complete surprise and really lovely,” said Amanda. “It’s a great service. My granny used to come here every year – she would be thrilled to know I am back.”

It was the family’s first time on the Hopper, which was taking them back to their campsite on the final day of their holiday.

Town council chairman John Hollick, who presented the family with a bunch of flowers to commemorate the event, said: “This presentation normally takes place in September – we’re ahead of the game.”

The Hopper is sponsored by Sidmouth Town Council and businesses.

Councillor John Dyson, the member responsible for the service, praised driver Jim Tucker, who is retiring. His last drives will be on September 5, 7and 8.