Hopes of easier free bus travel in changes

Free bus travel across district boundries could become easier for pensioners in Worcestershire if control of concessionary fares was handed to the county council, it was claimed today.

Currently the six district authorities, including Wyre Forest District Council, administer the scheme giving free travel to passengers over 60.

The Government will be consulting on proposals to shift responsibility to county authorities from 2011.

The move follows concerns that some districts are struggling because of the financial implications.

County councillor Derek Prodger said the move would "benefit everyone". He said: "Lots of bus journeys cross district boundaries and while that could cause the districts problems, it is no problem for us."