Morebus is gearing up to welcome rising numbers of concessionary pass holders on-board its buses, as the warmer months approach.
And the Dorset bus operator is keen to encourage those who may not yet have claimed their bus passes, to do so through the local authority they pay their council tax to.
“The past two years have been very difficult – particularly for older members of our community,” said Morebus head of communications, Nikki Honer. “We know many have refrained from travelling on public transport because they have followed advice from the government during the pandemic.
“Now we are seeing growing numbers on-board with us again, and there are certainly many wonderful places to explore across our beautiful region. And, for some, travelling by bus is about more than getting from A to B, it’s about connecting with others.
“Seeing and speaking with people can play a vital role in combating loneliness, and we’re pleased Morebus can help with that. We’re urging anyone who has become eligible for concessionary travel – those born before 1956 – and hasn’t yet claimed their pass, to do so and open up a whole new world of travel opportunities.”
With costs at the fuel pumps rising significantly over recent weeks, travelling by bus is also an excellent way to save money – particularly for those entitled to free travel.
“Fuel costs are eye watering at the moment, and everyone is feeling the pinch of increased energy bills too,” added Nikki. “So there has never been a better time to make use of a concessionary bus pass.
“Anyone new to travelling with us will find everything they need to plan their journeys on our website or app. From tracking buses in real time to planning in advance, bus travel has never been easier or more convenient.
“Many grandparents living in our local community help out with childcare, and we’d like to remind them that up to two children under the age of seven can travel for free with a concessionary pass holder.
“Kids love bus rides, and it’s a great way of keeping them entertained, looking out of the bus window.”
Those born before 1956 wishing to claim their bus pass can find out how to apply by visiting morebus.co.uk/freetravel
Concessionary pass holders June Curtis (72) and Colin Jarvis (74) from the New Forest are pleased to be exploring the region again by bus. “We stopped using buses during the pandemic but it’s great to be out-and-about again,” said June. The drivers are always so helpful and the buses are clean and safe.”
Colin added: “Our passes give us so much freedom to travel, and of course benefit our pockets too!”
For information about Morebus, and the Morebus app, please visit morebus.co.uk