NEW nationwide free bus travel for passengers aged over 60 have been greeted with a mixed reaction in Petersfield. Since April 1, senior bus passengers and people with disabilities have been given free bus passes that can take them all over the country – for nothing. While some parts of the country only allow the passes to be valid at off-peak times, East Hampshire District Council has offered the service at all times. But EHDC acknowledged there had been some teething problems. A press spokesman for the authority said: "Some East Hampshire councillors were contacted by residents who said that the bus company First Group had refused to allow them to travel outside of the district before 9.30am. "The council is very clear that all journeys beginning within East Hampshire are paid for by EHDC and, as such, are eligible for all day travel, and this has now been accepted by the bus company." It seems to have caused some confusion among users who were concerned that while the new passes let passengers go further afield than they could in the past, they had been led to believe they were not valid at peak times early in the morning. One Sheet resident, who didn't wish to be named, said she was concerned that people living in outlying villages and had to be in Petersfield by 9am would have to pay. But the EHDC spokesman said that provided the journey began in East Hampshire, it wouldn't be the case, although it could affect people further afield. The Sheet bus user added that the changes had their benefits, saying: "The advantage for me is that I can go and see my friend in Folkestone. The trip has cost me more than £20 in bus fares in the past." A couple from Swanmore were also happy with the new freedom their passes gave them and were taking full advantage. Iris and John Davis had stopped in Petersfield for the morning on Wednesday before heading off to Winchester in the afternoon. Mrs Davis said: "You can now easily go for a for a day out, as we have done today." Another passenger from Winchester was looking forward to the new benefits, but had not yet received their new pass in the post. The bus passes for over 60s in Petersfield are provided by East Hampshire District Council. Bus passes were only valid in the region they were issued, but now they are valid for use on all public bus services throughout England, excluding Express Coaches and certain limited stop services. The new pass will be valid until March 31, 2013. The national bus pass can be used at any time of the day seven days a week within the East Hampshire district only but may be subject to restrictions to off-peak times – 9.30am to 11pm – in other areas. The new national bus pass would allow people to make free journeys anywhere in England, replacing the previous Hampshire-wide pass. For more details about the scheme or how to apply for a pass, call EHDC customer services on 01730 234101.