RULES over concessionary bus travel have been relaxed amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Somerset County Council has taken the step as it expects many who hold Concession Cards - such as OAPs - to be travelling to receive Covid-19 vaccinations in the coming days and weeks.

Usually, travel using the bus passes is restricted to post-9.30am.

However now, bus pass holders will be able to travel at any time before 9.30am, until 11pm.

"A decision has been taken this afternoon by Somerset County Council to relax our concessionary fare scheme times, enabling concessionary travel at any time before 9.30am to 111pm, Monday to Friday," said a council spokesperson.

"This is in response to the expected increase in demand from concessionary pass holders, who will be accessing vaccination sites prior to 9.30am as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic."

Buses of Somerset said ticket machines have been reprogrammed and our teams have been informed of the changes.