Pensioners are being encouraged to get out and about this summer with a relaxation of the rules covering the use of all Metro Gold Cards.
Throughout July and August all Gold Card holders will be able to travel before 9.30am during the peak period on the Metro system.
Holders living outside Tyne and Wear who possess Metro Gold Cards will also be entitled to this benefit.
Richard McClean, Managing Director of DB Regio Tyne and Wear Ltd, operators of Metro, said: “We are delighted to offer this extra travel benefit to Metro Gold Card holders during July and August. The Gold Card offers exceptional value for money.
“All Gold Card holders, and that includes those resident outside Tyne and Wear, will be permitted to travel during the peak period before 9.30am. It is a great way to get the most out of summer and entertain the grandchildren."
The extra concession for summer was agreed by the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority, which sets fares on Metro.
In addition, bus operator Go North East is separately offering customers with National Concessionary Travel passes the chance to travel before 9.30am for a small fee throughout the summer - allowing easy onward connection to Metro.
The Metro Gold Card is available to Tyne and Wear residents with a National Concessionary Travel pass for a one-off annual payment of £12 per year. The Gold Card for people living outside Tyne and Wear costs £25 for the year.
Metro Gold Card was introduced in 2006 and offers travel after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day at weekends and on public holidays. It can also be used to travel on Northern Rail services between Newcastle and Sunderland after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day at weekends and public holidays.
Metro Gold card application forms are available from this website, www.nexus.org.uk, or from any Nexus TravelShop. Further information can be obtained by calling the Nexus Customer Service Team on 0191 20 20 774.