ELDERLY and disabled residents in Haslemere can now ride the local bus service for free. The concessionary bus fare scheme came into effect last Saturday and offers free, off-peak bus travel for people over 60 and the disabled. The scheme, which is costing the government £350 million, will benefit 11 million people across the country, supporting mobility and encouraging bus use. Marianne O'Brien, the local representative of Bus Users UK, believes the move is a step in the right direction for the bus service in this country. She said: "I'm extremely happy that this scheme has been put into effect and am looking forward to getting around the South free of charge. "The most important thing of all for mental and physical welfare is the ability to get out and about, and these passes will help a great deal." However, Mrs O'Brien was quick to warn people not to neglect the opportunity and face the risk of further bus service cut-backs. She added: "The network has shrunk a lot, which is a shame. For example, I can't get to Petersfield any more. "That's why it's absolutely vital that people use this service, to keep it up and running. We really don't want any more cut-backs. "If we can make a success of this scheme, then hopefully the evening and Sunday services could return, which would be fantastic." Put simply, the passes mean that Surrey residents who qualify, can travel anywhere on the bus, free, as long as their starting point or destination is in the county and they travel between 9-30 am and 11 pm. Alan Burnett, senior policy officer of Help the Aged, added: "This is good news for older people. "As well as helping them to save money, the concessions will enable older people to stay in touch with friends and relatives and reach local services and facilities they depend on. "We want to encourage anyone entitled to these concessions to make sure they use them." The free local bus service will be extended to a nationwide scheme in 2008, which means those entitled will be able to use local bus services anywhere in England. Those who qualify for the initiative can claim their free bus pass from their local authority.