Isle of Wight-based Southern Vectis held a special event in Newport this week, highlighting the importance of concessionary travel.
Says Southern Vectis General Manager, Richard Tyldsley: “We wanted to find out, first-hand, how our customers have been helped by having easy access to local buses.
“Many confirmed to us that being able to travel freely across the island really is a lifeline.”
Den Barlow (83) attended the event and explained how he uses his bus pass: “We use it all the time,” he said. “It allows us to really explore the island and get out walking in some of the more inaccessible areas. We’d struggle to do that without our passes.”
Mary Hall (71) said her pass gives her freedom: “When I moved to the island, I lost my husband soon after, and I felt very alone,” she added. “My financial budget also reduced considerably, and I found my bus pass to be invaluable. It allowed me to make necessary trips like going to the shops, visiting the doctor or the hospital, and I was able to get out and meet people. Many of us who travel on the same bus know each other well now, and it’s all down to the accessibility. I’d be lost without it.”
