More than 21 million bus journeys have been made by under-22s in Scotland since free travel was introduced, the Scottish Government have revealed.

The Young Persons’ (under-22) Free Bus Travel Scheme began on January 31 and gives all those aged five to 21 the ability to travel on public transport free of charge.

Following the success of the policy, the Scottish Government has launched a new marketing campaign to encourage more eligible children and young people to use the scheme.

More than half of those eligible already benefit from the scheme, according to the Scottish Government.

But the new campaign will use TV, digital, radio and outdoor channels to encourage more people to use their pass for free bus travel.

Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth said: “With over 21 million free bus journeys made by under-22s across Scotland, this landmark policy is already helping young people and families with children cut costs for everyday and leisure

travel, while at the same time protecting our climate.”

She continued: “With the majority of eligible young people now having access to free bus travel all across Scotland, for local journeys and further afield, now is the time to begin a new campaign aimed at those who may not have considered using the bus before.”