Elderly residents will be entitled to countywide bus passes from April if new legislation is passed.

Under the Government's proposed new concessionary fares scheme, pensioners and disabled people will be given half-fare off-peak bus travel.

At a meeting this week, it was decided Wealden District Council would continue to offer a scheme that allows pass holders to travel anywhere in the whole of Sussex for the cut rate.

Councillor Rupert Thornely-Taylor, leader of the council, said: "Under the existing scheme we were able to offer either concessionary bus or rail passes. From April, it will be every senior citizen and disabled person's right to concessionary bus travel.

"Members agreed to do more than the basic scheme by continuing to offer the Sussex Countycard bus card that entitles travellers to use the bus service anywhere in the county."