The Mayor’s Kids Go Free campaign returns across public transport in the North East, giving thousands of families cheaper travel this Christmas.
The popular initiative will run across public transport in the North East during the school holidays from Saturday 20 December to Sunday 4 January. This means up to three children aged 11 and under to travel for free with each fare paying adult or concessionary pass holder.
Metro and Ferry travel is free for children to travel with a paying adult all year round - so public transport is a great choice for families this festive season.
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said: “Kids Go Free is back this Christmas, helping families save money on every journey over the school holidays.
“I want local people to keep more of their money in their pockets, so I'm pleased once again we’ll see thousands of kids travelling for free on the bus, Metro and Ferry too.
“As well as Kids Go Free, we are funding cheaper tickets for all including a promise that young people will pay no more than £1 for a bus journey while adults can travel for £2.50 - that’s 50p cheaper than the national fare cap in place. I’ll continue to do as much as possible to keep transport costs low – I know how important this is to local people.”
A joint statement on behalf of local bus operators, said: “Arriva, Go North East, and Stagecoach are proud to continue supporting the Mayor's Kids Go Free scheme this Christmas. This time of year is a valuable opportunity for families to spend time together, and we recognise that the cost of living can still be a real challenge. By making bus travel more affordable, we’re helping families enjoy cost-effective days out across the region, all without the stress of travel costs."
Cathy Massarella, Managing Director of Nexus, said: “Kids Go Free has been a real success story on both Metro and the Shields Ferry. It’s great to see it available on the bus network once again for the festive season. It’s a fantastic offer that makes public transport more affordable for families in our region.”
Kids Go Free covers the North East Combined Authority areas of – County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside, and Sunderland during school holidays.
To view full terms and conditions, participating services and upcoming dates for the offer, visit www.northeast-ca.gov.uk/kidsgofree