Buses have been voted the most popular form of public transport used in cities, according to a new survey.

In research conducted by Greener Journeys and Leeds University, one-third of visitors to city centres outside London use bus services. 

Coming in as close second was the car with 30 per cent, followed by 22 per cent for cycling or walking and 15 per cent getting the train.

Claire Haigh, chief executive of Greener Journeys, said: "The government, councils and businesses should all take notice of the vital importance of good bus services to their ongoing success."

More than one-fifth said that they chose the bus because it was cheaper, 17 per cent felt it was an easier option and 14 per cent thought it eliminated any potential parking problems. 

The report highlighted that any proposed cuts to bus frequencies or services could have negative effects on local businesses and economies. 

Baroness Kramer, the transport minister, said this survey proved that buses were the "crucial backbone" of the economy.