On the buses

More than 13,600 people living in Hertsmere are getting out and about thanks to the free bus pass scheme supported by Hertsmere Borough Council.

At the end of July a record 13,603 passes had been issued, that’s an increase of 45% over the last two years.

Cllr John Donne, portfolio holder for transport, explained: "In these difficult economic times it is more important than ever that we promote schemes which can help people save money and provide social benefits.

“The free bus passes we issue provide a vital lifeline to people, who perhaps otherwise would not be able to get out and about.

“Not only does our scheme allow pass holders free off-peak bus travel on local bus services anywhere within England, it also means within Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and London pass-holders can travel free at anytime of the day without restriction, so it’s great to know that so many people are making the most of it."

The pass is available to permanent residents of Hertsmere who are aged 60 or over or have one of the following disabilities:

• Blind or partially sighted
• Profoundly or severely deaf, without natural speech
• Severe walking difficulties (a substantial and long-term adverse affect on their ability to walk)
• Does not have arms or has long-term loss of the use of both arms
• Has had a learning disability since childhood, that is, a state of arrested or incomplete development of mind which includes significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning
• Driving licence refusal due to a medical condition (except in the case of drugs or alcohol misuse)
• Severe mental health problems -Severe learning difficulties from birth

If you are eligible and want to get a bus pass contact the Bus Pass Team on 020 8207 7408 or email buspass@hertsmere.gov.uk to find out all the details about what you need to do.

Bus pass holders can also obtain a 50% discount on First Capital Connect cheap day return fares for certain local routes. Further enquiries regarding times of trains and/or cost of journey can be obtained from National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950.