Pensioners in Herefordshire will be able to enjoy free bus travel anywhere in England from tomorrow – even if their new bus passes haven’t arrived yet.

The new passes, which come into use tomorrow, Tuesday, April 1, allow pensioners and many disabled people to have free bus travel throughout England at off-peak times.

The passes also mean that local people can enjoy free local bus travel in Herefordshire and between Herefordshire and places in Wales at all times.

The passes are being sent directly from Fujitsu Services Ltd, which is a contractor appointed by the government to produce passes for councils throughout the UK.

Anyone who applied for a new pass before February 1 should have received one by now – which should mean that most people will have one.

However, those who applied between February 1 and February 29 should receive theirs by April 10.

“Anyone concerned that they haven’t received their passes, or anyone who has a pass with incorrect details on it, should contact Info in Herefordshire on 01432 260500 for assistance,” said Jim Davies, Herefordshire Council’s public transport manager.

“The old style Herefordshire passes are still valid and can be used for local travel until the new passes are delivered,” he added.

“Anyone who needs to travel elsewhere in England and who hasn’t received their new pass can be given a temporary upgrade to the local pass by contacting the council’s public transport team on 01432 260211.”

The passes are available to anyone over the age of 60 and to many disabled people.

Applications can be made up to one month before their 60th birthday at any Info Shop.

“You just have to bring along a passport-size photograph. Proof of age and address will also be required,” added Jim.