From today people over 60 and disabled people will be able to travel for free on local bus services in their area.
The concessionary bus fares schemes will offer free, off peak local bus travel and will benefit 11 million older and disabled people supporting mobility and inclusion and encouraging bus use.
Those aged 60 and over and disabled people should apply to their local authority for a bus pass.
Free local bus travel will be extended to a nationwide scheme in 2008 which means those entitled will be able to use local bus services anywhere in England.
Transport Secretary Alistair Darling said:
"From today 11 million older and disabled people will be able to take advantage of free local bus travel. Buses offer flexible and convenient transport and concessionary fares will encourage more people to take the bus as well as helping people stay independent. "
Commenting on the scheme Alan Burnett, Senior Policy Officer, Help the Aged said:
"This is good news for older people. As well as helping them to save money, the concessions will enable older people to stay in touch with friends and relatives and reach local services and facilities they depend on. We want to encourage anyone entitled to these concessions to make sure they use them and would urge people to contact their local authority or bus operator to find out about arrangements in their area."
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