Two weeks after new bus passes offered the elderly free travel across the country, confusion has led to pensioners being denied access to the promised services.
In a letter to the Watford Observer last week, Jeff Williams, of Mill Way, Bushey, said a bus driver had told him to get off a service travelling from Baker Street, London, despite Mr Williams having a valid pass.
This week another elderly resident from Bushey, Alec Just, 74, of King George Avenue, asked for clarification after finding council staff equally confused about the passes' use.
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He alleged he had been told by Hertsmere Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Transport, John Donne, that the passes were not valid on London services.
Later, however, Hertsmere Borough Council representative Anna Cotton confirmed the passes were in fact valid on bus services in London during off peak hours.
Mr Just said: "I don't understand why it can't be made more clear on the passes that it is valid nationally.
"No one seems to know what the devil is going on.
"You could end up with vulnerable old people being stranded in the middle of the country."
Although the cards show an English rose and a red stripe to indicate national use, it is not stated in writing.
Hertfordshire County Council representative, Josie Judge said: "The bus passes are valid on all London buses from 09.30am until 11pm Monday to Friday and any time at the weekend.
"Transport for London is responsible for ensuring that all their contractors are aware of the new scheme.
"Hertfordshire's scheme goes beyond the national statutory requirement and includes free travel at any time of any day (not just off-peak) as long as the journey is started within Hertfordshire."
For more information about the bus passes, visit www.hertsdirect.org
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