Bus services in Sussex are to benefit from a boost of almost £2.5 million.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott announced the money as part of a £62 million nationwide package to improve buses in rural areas.

East Sussex will receive almost £1.5 million and West Sussex £1 million.

The cash will go towards providing five multi-purpose buses for community services in East Sussex.

The vehicles will be equipped with cycle racks and services will be aimed at commuters, students and weekend leisure trippers throughout the county. The buses will also be available for off-peak, dial-a-ride services and for youth activities.

Ed Bassford, manager of passenger transport at East Sussex County Council, said: "This money enables us to get moving with introducing more community transport which is something we are keen to do."

Operators in West Sussex are setting up a One Step Beyond initiative with their money.

It will provide a minibus service on a direct route from Petworth to Chichester.

The new vehicle would be wheelchair-accessible and the connection to Chichester would allow access to hospital, employment and leisure venues.

Mr Prescott said: "The Rural White Paper committed the Government to improve rural transport, particularly for those without access to a car."