THE Swindon Bus Company has launched an app so passengers can buy tickets on their smartphones.

The aim is to make it easier for commuters to use the bus services.

And in future they hope to add the ability for real-time service information.

Tickets can be bought in advance or on the day and be downloaded.

Alex Chutter, general manager of Swindon’s Bus Company, said: “We’re delighted to launch our clickit2ride mobile app, which will make it easier than ever for customers to buy tickets when travelling with Thamesdown - Swindon’s Bus Company.

“This is the first release of our app and we’re continuing to make improvements to it.

“Future plans include journey planning and real-time service information.

“We expect the new app to be very popular among those travelling with us in and around Swindon.”

The app launch comes just weeks after the Adver reported that bus passengers were waiting for services that would never arrive after a glitch with real-time displays at stops.

Carley Trafford, 27, of Gorse Hill and a frequent bus user, said: “I use the contactless method as its convenient.

“If I have no money and no card and that would be good to use it then - I lose my card all the time.”

But some passengers seemed hesitant to use the app as they usually buy their bus passes in advance.

Michela Patterson, 22, of Old Town said: “I use a bus pass and I don’t think I will use it.”

The app is available to download from the App Store and the Google Play.

Once the app has been downloaded the barcode can be used on the bus and there will be no need for paper tickets.