THOUSANDS of Hampshire's over-60s have not yet claimed free bus passes which they are entitled to.
It is estimated that more than 68,000 over-60s living in and around Southampton may not be aware of the free nationwide pensioner bus pass scheme due to start on April 1.
From that date people aged over 60 and the disabled will be able to travel off peak after 9.30am anywhere in England free of charge.
Across all district and borough councils in the area, existing bus pass holders will receive a replacement for use on April 1.
Anyone who has not yet held a pass will have to apply for a new one from their local authority to be able to get free travel.
In some areas, including Southampton, bus passes will start half an hour early allowing travel at 9am.
Figures from the Department for Transport show that 40,145 over 60s in Southampton are entitled to free bus travel anywhere in England.
However, Southampton City Council has so far only issued 30,000 free passes - a shortfall of 10,145.
For the full story, see today's Daily Echo.
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