TOWN politicians are stepping up the pressure on bus company bosses to get cheaper travel for pensioners.

Droitwich Spa Town Council was unable to renew free town travel passes for OAPs and disabled folk with First Midland Red.

Instead, public transport users will get a pass providing half-price travel across Worcestershire and surrounding areas.

But town council leader Cllr Pam Davey (Con, Droit. South) wants fresh talks with First Midland Red.

This year, the Government ordered all local authorities to provide a free bus pass and Wychavon District Council was forced to restructure it's travel concessions scheme.

Cllr Davey said: "We are hemmed in by the constraints of legislation but I feel we must try to help those for whom journeys into town are an important part of their lives.

"It's time First Midland Red showed they are the best firm to hold the franchise."

Cllr John Cook (Lab, Droit. West) said: "We are making a grave mistake by not giving our pensioners the free pass they are used to.

"The new system will cause confusion and it will have a big impact on the number of shoppers coming in to town."

A First Midland Red spokesman said: "We have received a letter from the town council asking us to consider various proposals and we are currently waiting for further details."