AFTER a free fortnight's trial and a record-breaking start last weekend, the new Worcester Express bus fares have started this week.

Last Saturday saw 3,146 passenger journeys on the new 'W' buses - the highest ever number on a non-Christmas Saturday since the park-and-ride initiative started five years ago.

However, the two-week 'free for all' trial has now ended and Worcestershire County Councillor John Smith, who is heading the scheme, said the real test starts now.

From today, under 19s and over 60s continue to travel on 'W' buses for free, with everyone else paying. An all-day travel ticket costs £1.50, with an extra 50p per car.