A COUNCIL has handed out 10,000 free bus passes since they were introduced a month ago.

Easington District Council said the number applying had outstripped expectations after Margaret Oxenham, of Benevente Street, Seaham, this week received the 10,000th pass to be handed out in the district since April 1.

Mrs Oxenham collected her pass at a new registration centre, in Seaham, one of a number set up by Easington District Council to make applying for passes easier for residents.

Mrs Oxenham said: "This is going to save me money and make it easier for me to travel across the county and beyond.''

The free travel concession will give thousands of over-60s and registered disabled people the chance to travel free on public transport throughout County Durham.

Councillor Joan Freak, executive member for social inclusion, said: "I am delighted so many residents are taking up the opportunity to get new passes. Countywide free travel means a great deal to the over-60s and the most vulnerable in our district.''

Those who have passes should apply for the new ones by the May 31 deadline.

The council is sending letters to all present holders, advising them when and where they need to go to get their replacement passes.

Anyone who cannot get to their centre before the deadline will still be able to receive their pass by calling at the authority's Seaside Lane offices, in Easington.

Eligible residents who do not have a pass can also receive one from the Concessionary Fares Centre, at Seaside Lane, between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 4.30pm on Fridays.