Free bus travel teething problems overcome - boss

Initial teething problems with free seasonal bus travel provided across five of Berkshire's local authorities have been ironed out, a bus company's boss said.

Residents in all its council areas except Reading will be able to use some buses without paying on Saturdays before Christmas.

But a small number of people were charged when the offer was rolled out in Wokingham last Sunday and anyone affected will be refunded, Reading Buses' CEO Robert Williams said.

"We are sorry for that but overall lots of people used the bus last Sunday and we are expecting lots and lots of people to use the bus this weekend," Mr Williams added.

"This Saturday we've managed to coordinate things so that five local authorities are doing the same offer on the same day so it will be really easy to get about and for free.

"If there are any issues just get in touch. We are redoubling all of our efforts to make sure that everybody's aware [of the offer] and to get the message out there as widely as possible. We want as many people on the bus and as few people in their cars."

Some authorities, including Bracknell Forest, are also offering free bus travel on Sundays ahead of Christmas.

Some travellers might need to pay for their return fare if they travel to an area not included in the offer, with more information on its website.

Reading Borough Council is offering its £2.50 offer on the Mereoak Park and Ride 600, Winnersh Park and Ride 500 and hospital Park & Ride 300 daily. That includes parking – except at Thames Valley – and return travel.