OAPs get more free travel (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

OAPs get more free travel

12:36pm Wednesday 21st November 2007 in News By Chris Wickham

Borough pensioners and disabled residents are to get an extension to their free travel benefits, it was revealed this week, to the delight of London's mayor.

From this week disabled Freedom Pass holders will be able to use the new London Overground Network, which includes services from Richmond and Kew Gardens on what was formerly known as the North London Line, free of charge at anytime, while older people will be entitled to free travel from 9am on weekdays instead of 9.30am.

Ken Livingstone, mayor of London, said he was absolutely delighted by the news, a statement welcomed by London Councils, the umbrella group representing the 33 London boroughs.

Councillor Merrick Cockell, chairman of London Councils, said: "The extra benefits we have provided for Freedom Pass holders on the London Overground Network is a clear indication of London boroughs' commitment to this vital scheme for some of our most vulnerable members of society.

"The pass has never been under threat from London's boroughs, despite the claims by the mayor, far from cutting any of the benefits enjoyed by Freedom Pass holders, we have extended them.

"It is very pleasing that the mayor has finally acknowledged our commitment to the Freedom Pass. Hopefully this will put an end to the misleading information that has been worrying older and disabled people across the capital."