And he met up with Marton East ward members Dorothy Davison and Jason McConnell to celebrate its resumption this week.
The circular route is back in service with subsidy funding from Tees Valley Combined Authority after an outcry from local users led to a recalculation of passenger numbers.
Buses were once again running this week on the 29 route following a two-month pause.
Mayor Cooke said: “This bus route is a bit of a lifeline for many residents in the area and I’m delighted it’s been saved.
“It ensures they have access to the rest of town, and is vital for things like hospital appointments.
“Not everyone has access to a car, so we will continue to do all we can to keep viable routes like this in service.”
Marton East ward Councillor Dorothy Davison added: “This is a great result for local people, and I’m grateful to everyone who’s played a part in bringing this important service back.
“We were overwhelmed by calls for it to be reinstated, and I’m pleased Arriva and TVCA have listened to the voices of local people.”
Fellow Marton East Cllr Jason McConnell added: “Services like this are so important for local communities, and with a little support they can be maintained for the benefit of the whole town.
“I’m pleased that common sense has prevailed in this case, and I would urge people to make use of this and other local routes to ensure we are able to keep them for the foreseeable future.”
