CONCESSIONARY bus travel is available once again for elderly and vulnerable residents of Shropshire.

From Monday, June 15, bus pass holders will be able to travel for free from 9.30am each day.

A temporary change was introduced on March 20 to enable pass holders to travel for free before 9.30am to take advantage of the exclusive early morning shopping times being offered by some supermarkets and shops.

The change applies to all bus services operating in the Shropshire Council area.

Steve Davenport, Cabinet member for highways and transport, said he was happy to see bus services return to normal.

"We were pleased to be able to lift the restriction just before the lockdown started, but feel that next Monday is the right time for arrangements to return to normal," said Cllr Davenport.

"Additional shops will be reopening from next week, and many will be more flexible with their opening times.

"At the same time, more people are using public transport for work and school.

"And with social distancing in place on buses we want to ensure there is enough room on routes for workers and pupils, as well as shoppers.

"Many other councils are doing the same, and Transport for West Midlands and Staffordshire County Council have already reverted back to this arrangement."

Bus passengers are reminded that, from Monday 15 June, face coverings must be worn on all public transport and failure to do so will mean they are unable to travel.