The senior citizens and disabled travellers of South Yorkshire have given the thumbs up to free travel on buses, trams and trains in the county.
As the first anniversary of the introduction of the scheme passes, figures recently compiled by the Transport Executive reveal that journeys undertaken by these groups have increased by a massive 26% over the previous year.
Passenger Services Director David Brown was delighted but not too surprised by the news.
“The fact that offering free travel means more people are taking advantage of the concession is hardly a shock, but I must say that even I wasn’t prepared for the scale of the take-up.
“This is exactly the reason why our organisation is here - to get more people to see and experience for themselves the benefits of public transport.
“We invest a lot of money in this kind of initiative every year, and it is particularly pleasing to be in a position to offer real help to those people who are in greatest need.”
Transport Executive officials are not the only ones who are happy. Jeff Frost, a pensioner from Rotherham, said: “Until free travel began I have to admit that I never even thought about using public transport.
“But now I use it all the time. It certainly helps me to make the most of my valuable time and money.”
That theme is echoed by Nicola Maguire, who manages the Traveline enquiries call centre that handles thousands of requests a week for information about all aspects of public transport in South Yorkshire.
“The Senior Citizen and Mobility Pass holders all seem to love it,” she said. “We take plenty of calls from these customers and many have told us that it’s a lifeline for them and they are very appreciative.
“Some have even told us that they would be quite willing still to pay 20p rather than have the concession withdrawn - but that’s not going to happen so they can carry on travelling!”
The current rule is that all senior citizen pass holders living in South Yorkshire can travel
for free from 09:00 weekdays, and at any time on weekends and Bank Holidays. Mobility
Pass holders can also travel at all times. All are able to travel free of charge to and from
nearby towns outside South Yorkshire.
Passes can be renewed at any Travel Information Centre or through the postal system. Anyone wishing to renew their pass will need the following:
• EXISTING customers will need to bring their current pass with them on the day;
• NEW customers will need to bring proof of their age and address and a passport size photograph.
Postal applications can be made to TIC Managers, PO Box 801, Exchange Street, Sheffield, S2 5YT and will take up to 5 working days.