McInnes fights for a "fare" deal for youngsters

3.14.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 3rd Jul 2009

Aberdeenshire MSP Alison McInnes yesterday met with Stagecoach Bluebird management to highlight how high bus fares affect young people in rural towns and villages.

Speaking after the meeting she said:

"Many young people have told me that the cost of bus fares to travel into the city from places such as Turriff and Huntly means that they have to ration trips into the city whether its to shop, go to the cinema or just to meet up with friends.Alison McInnes MSP: North East Scotland

I met with senior management to explore the possibility of the company offering special youth ticket deals particularly during school holidays and they have agreed to consider that further.

While Stagecoach Bluebird do offer a number of good deals for regular travellers such as the megarider ticket, the less frequent traveller can face high fares. For example a return fare from Turriff costs someone under 16 £7.50.

I have discovered that Turriff residents would be better off buying a Bluebird explorer ticket which at £7.50 for an under 16 ticket gives unlimited one day travel on bluebird buses from as far north as Inverness to Stonehaven and al points in between.

"I am disappointed that this ticket is not more widely publicised and I have asked the company to do more to let people know about it."

Mrs McInnes' message to everyone travelling by bus is make sure you are getting the best deal available - by either asking the driver or checking the website before travelling.