OLDER people still waiting for their free national bus passes have been told not to worry.
Metro is issuing 300,000 passes to the over-60s, disabled and blind people in West Yorkshire.
The passes, which entitle holders to free off-peak bus travel in England, came into use yesterday, but many have not yet been delivered.
Pass-holders are also able to travel on trains in West Yorkshire for 35p after 9.30am Mondays to Fridays and all day at weekends and on public holidays.
Blind people can travel free on trains anywhere in West Yorkshire at all times.
Metro director general Kieran Preston said: “If your pass hasn’t arrived yet don’t worry; it’s on its way. You can still use your existing Metro Senior, Disabled Person’s or Blind Person’s Permit until it does come.
“We have trawled the data again before giving the go-ahead for the new passes to be sent out to minimise any problems.
“But we would like to apologise in advance to anyone who receives the wrong pass or a pass containing the wrong information.”
He said if anyone had any problems, they should contact Metro on 0113 245 7676 immediately.
The new English National Concessionary Pass replaces the current Metro Permit.
Anyone whohas not yet applied, can do so at a post office or bus station.
Transport minister Rosie Winterton welcomed the new passes, available to 11m people in England.
She said: “For many older or disabled people the bus can be a lifeline, providing access to employment, healthcare and other essential services, as well as allowing them to visit family and friends.”
She said the scheme meant no older or disabled person in England would be prevented from bus travel by cost alone.
Help the Aged director, Paul Cann, was also pleased, and added: “We’re hoping the bus pass will be the first in a string of concessional travel options for older people.”
