MORE than 3,000 young people have already benefited from free bus travel in Clackmannanshire.

MSP Mark Ruskell has welcomed the figures and the positive impact of free bus travel for people under the age of 22, on the first anniversary of the scheme.

It has benefited 3,269 young people in Clacks since January 31, 2022, and in total, 564,000 young people across Scotland have enjoyed more than 40 million journeys.

MSP Ruskell, representative for Mid Scotland and Fife, said: "I am delighted that 3,269 young people in Clackmannanshire are already benefiting from free bus travel, and encourage those who have yet to do so to visit Freebus.scot register for their card today.

"Not only has free bus travel helped households and families during a cost crisis, it is cutting carbon emissions and has opened the country to a whole generation of young people.

"Transport shouldn't cost the earth, and this is one of the most important changes that our parliament has made since devolution.

"This isn't just about travel.

"It's also about giving people confidence, enabling opportunity and doing everything we can to build a more sustainable and connected Scotland."

Scotland is the first country in the UK to offer free bus travel for young people, the scheme having been introduced following negotiations between the Scottish Greens and the Scottish Government.