PASSENGERS in Aireborough, Horsforth and parts of Wharfedale can now use free bus passes at any time.

West Yorkshire Combined Transport Authority (WYCA) has lifted the usual usage restrictions to help older people get to shops and supermarkets earlier in the day.

The new arrangement, introduced to help during the coronavirus outbreak, will stay in force until Friday, April 17. WYCA is also seeking to assure key workers - including NHS staff - and those who need to make essential trips that bus and trains will continue running, though scaled-back timetables are being introduced.

Customers are being advised to check www.wymetro.com and @metrotravelnews on Twitter for the latest information before they travel.

Chair of the WYCA Transport Committee, Councillor Kim Groves, said: “”We are pleased to be able to introduce flexibility on concessionary travel but would urge those passengers to follow social-distancing guidelines. We know public transport remains essential for key workers and others who need access to shops and services. The measures being taken by rail and bus operators are designed to make services as resilient and reliable as possible and get people where they need to be.”