BUS passes will be accepted on Wiltshire routes from 9am on today (May 1).

Until now, holders of a concessionary bus pass in the county were only able to use them on local bus services from 9.30am on weekdays.

But now, Wiltshire Council has agreed with bus operators to amend the restriction to 9am until further notice for all journeys that start in the council area.

Pass holders will still be able to use their bus pass at any time to travel at weekends.

Cllr Tamara Reay, cabinet member for transport, said: “We often get asked if we can allow pass holders to use their passes earlier on weekdays and so we are delighted to offer this extension to the scheme which gives those with concessionary bus passes more flexibility to get around.

“A key priority in our Business Plan is a commitment to having vibrant, well-connected communities, and to increase the use of public transport. This scheme is a great example of the work we’re doing to make this a reality.

“I’d like to thank our bus operators for their continued support, which means we can implement schemes like this for our communities.”

For more information about concessionary bus passes, visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/1720/Concessionary-bus-pass.