FROM today (Thursday), concessionary bus pass holders in West Devon will be able to travel free on local buses from 9am, instead of 9.30am.

By extending its scheme, West Devon Borough Council has made it possible for bus pass holders to access free travel on a wider range of journeys, giving more choice and in some cases allowing free travel on the only bus of the day from more rural areas.

Chair of the council's strategies and resources committee, Cllr Margaret Garton, said: 'West Devon Borough Council has decided that the Government's scheme failed to address the needs of our rural communities. In many areas there may not be a bus after 9.30am or the next bus may be several hours later.

'This does not assist people to access facilities such as doctors, hospitals or shopping.

'We believe that only allowing free travel after 9.30 am has caused great difficulty to many of our residents.'

The council recently announced the introduction of free companion travel for disabled travellers, which will also come into action on July 1.

For more information on concessionary bus travel in West Devon contact customer services on 01822 813600, or email [email protected]">[email protected]