Senior citizens' ticket to ride

People aged 60 and above, together with some people with disabilities, will soon be able to travel for free on any public bus throughout Kent.

From 1 April 2006, Sevenoaks District Council's bus permits will allow free off-peak travel from 9am Monday to Friday and all day Saturday, Sunday and public holidays on any bus that begins or ends its journey in the Kent or Medway area.

All councils have a duty to provide a bus permit for free bus travel in their local area from 1 April. However, Sevenoaks District Council teamed up with Kent's other councils to provide an enhanced pass that allows travel throughout the whole of the county.

Some 4,700 residents hold the current bus permit that allows half-price travel. They will receive the new free travel permit from mid March in time for 1 April.

Residents who have changed address since their last permit was issued are being advised to contact the Council to ensure they receive a new permit.

Cllr Gary Williamson, the Council's Cabinet member with responsibility for transportation issues, says: "The new permits that allow free off-peak travel is an important development for literally thousands of our residents. Travel mobility can be a problem for some older people, but from 1 April, they will have new options open to them to help improve their quality of life."

Sixty-eight year old Westerham resident, Vivienne Parry, has greeted the news that the Council will be issuing passes for free bus travel enthusiastically. She adds: "Free bus passes for older residents is really good news. It means that people like me can get out more often to shop, socialise and see friends. For years, people who live just across the border in Greater London have had the luxury of free travel. For the first time we are on a par with our London neighbours."

To find out more or to apply for a bus permit, call the Council on 01732 227000 or e-mail information@sevenoaks.gov.uk. Alternatively visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/travelconcessions