WINCHESTER civic chiefs have done a U-turn over the daily start time for free bus travel for the over-60s.

The city council had been criticised for planning to start the scheme at 9.30am instead of 9am.

The Tory-controlled council feared the earlier start would cost it too much money.

But critics said the 9.30am start would mean many potential users would be unable to fully use the pass.

Now the council is saying that efficiency savings mean that there is scope for more to be spent on the concessionary travel scheme, enabling the start of the scheme to remain at 9am.

George Beckett, council leader, said: "I have listened to comments from members of the public, and in particular the concerns of rural communities as expressed at a meeting of parish council chairmen, which I chaired on Tuesday, in coming to this decision.

"Taking into account these views along with the new budget information, we will now be able to provide a scheme which I am sure will bring real benefits to our residents aged over 60 from all areas of our district."

Winchester Liberal Democrats have welcomed the climbdown.

Martin Tod, Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate, said: "I was out collecting signatures for our petition against the bus pass cuts in the rain last week and the over-60s who I spoke to were furious about the Conservatives' proposals.

"I'm pleased that our campaign has helped force the Conservatives into a U-turn. The previous proposals were poorly thought through, bad for the environment, bad for the over-60s and particularly bad for people with early hospital appointments."