HEXHAM'S MP has welcomed a government move to extend the £2 bus fare cap until June 30.

The extension comes from a £75 million extra government investment which means passengers can continue to save on single bus tickets, helping them travel more affordably to education, work, and medical appointments.

With the average single local bus ticket costing £2.80, passengers can save almost a third of the ticket price and over 75 per cent on some of the longest trips.

The government hopes the cap will continue to help households through this difficult economic period while leveling up transport and growing the economy.

The scheme, which began in January this year, has already seen an uptick in passenger numbers.

This extension will continue to encourage greater bus use and is expected to take up to 4 million cars off the road, supporting ambitions for greener journeys by minimising pollution and tackling congestion across the country.

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Guy Opperman MP said: “Bus travel should be accessible and affordable for everyone. I know that people are struggling with rising costs, which is why the Government is extending the £2 bus fare cap.

"This will help to ensure people across Tynedale and Ponteland can get around easily, no matter where they live – connecting them with work, education, doctors’ appointments as well as friends and families.”