Bolton pensioners praise lifting of restrictions on bus passes

Bus passes could not previously be used before 9.30am on weekdays, but as of March 1, pensioners with passes are entitled to free bus travel at any time, anywhere in Greater Manchester.

Passenger Wendy Pye said: “It’s very welcome.

“I’ll get the benefit of it at least two days a week because I come into Bolton for classes and shopping.

“I have to get the bus to Halliwell at 9.28am, so I had to pay for that.

Leigh McCarthy (centre) with fellow bus pass users (Image: Dan Dougherty)

“The man who usually sits next to me on the bus is a pensioner and his wife is in care – he has to spend £10 a week on buses because he doesn’t drive.

“It’s good they’ve got around to doing it – hopefully it encourages people to get out more.”

Several passengers noted that lifting of the restrictions will encourage older people to leave the house more often – vitally important for people who are at a higher risk of isolation and loneliness.

Passenger Leigh McCarthy said: “It’s a good idea.

“It’s helpful, especially if we have an appointment or if we have to go to the doctor.

“We all use the passes!”

Fellow traveller Jeanette Thorburn added: “It’s about time.

“I was penalised because I have to get a bus before 9am.

“I tend to come into Bolton three times a week, so I should save about £6.”

According to Age UK, around one in six pensioners in the UK lives in poverty, with that figure expected to rise above two million in the coming years, meaning money saved on buses can help significantly.

Regular bus user R. Pattison said: “Oh, I’ll save quite a bit of money.

Buses leaving Bolton station (Image: Dan Dougherty)

“I don’t drive, so I have to take the bus more often.

“I went to the Trafford Centre the other week and then to Trafford Hospital to visit someone.

“My trip in a taxi would cost £60!”

Discussion of the passes was positive, even among staff.

One bus driver, who preferred not to be named, said: “People are happy about it, really.

“Last week, one guy who gets on my bus was saying ‘only three more days!’

“It gets people out and about a bit more too.

“It fills up the buses and keeps us in work!”