Gran, 82, left stranded after bus route she depends on changes

A gran says she won't be able to get to the hospital or the shops because her regular bus has had its route changed. Cancer survivor Audrey Kelly, 82, has spoken of her frustration at the move.

She has relied on the 44 bus to get to and from medical appointments, supermarkets and meetings with family and friends for decades - including during her treatment for bowel cancer at Wythenshawe hospital several years ago.

The south Manchester service has been rerouted, meaning it won't run past her house. Audrey says she will struggle to make important check-up appointments and look after herself independently.

READ MORE: Manchester nurse who has dedicated her life to others now needs your help after devastating news

"It's very frustrating," she told the Manchester Evening News . "Lots of elderly people use the service. It will have a big impact on our independence."

Audrey, who has lived in Withington for 50 years, says she is concerned for her safety walking to and from Withington village. "At my age, I have lost my confidence. I can handle myself, but I've lost my confidence. The brain's still 18, but the body's gone!"

Audrey lives alone. She says the bus is more than just a method of transport to her. She frequently sees people she knows and the bus allows her to enjoy a social life.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) bosses said they 'do not underestimate the impact service and timetable changes can have', and that changes are only made when 'absolutely necessary'.

Audrey's granddaughter Katie Green, 27, lives in neighbouring Stockport. She said the 44 bus has run along her Nan's road for as long as she can remember.

"She has grown to depend on it," she said. "Going into the village is a social occasion. She lives