RESIDENTS across North Somerset who have their birthdays in August will be able to access free bus travel this month.

From today (Tuesday, August 1), over one million people in the region will be able to register their birthday and travel for free, as many times as they like.

To qualify, you must have your birthday in August.

Click HERE to register.

It is hoped that the #BirthdayBus scheme will encourage more people to travel via bus and therefore reduce their carbon footprint.

Not only this, but it could also help residents during the cost-of-living crisis.

Bus companies that have signed up for the scheme include First and Stagecoach. WESTlink bookable minibuses will also offer free travel.

Metro mayor, Dan Norris, said: “I’m really proud of Birthday Buses.

"It’s a serious plan to get more and more people out of their cars and onto the buses long term.

"Because urgent behaviour change of an ongoing kind is key to building the local transport system West of England residents deserve, and to overcome the climate and ecological crises we face.

"With a whole birthday month to try the bus for free, I hope the public comes to like, and even love, bus travel and then continue to use it into the future. It is also a welcome boost to residents in this really very frightening cost-of-living crisis.”

Cllr Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said: “The Birthday Buses offer represents an opportunity for our residents to choose a free alternative to the car and make the most of our transport system.

"Whether you’re using the bus to get to and from work or taking advantage of links to some of the fantastic attractions in our area, everyone will have the chance to use the bus during the month of their birthday.

"Investment in public transport to make it accessible for all is a key part of our commitment to building a greener future.

"Thanks to funding from the Department for Transport, we will ensure bus services become faster, greener and more coordinated than ever before."

It is estimated that less than one in ten regional commutes are made on public transport, contributing to congestion and climate change.

The economic impact of congestion costs the West of England £300 million a year.

To learn more, visit the North Somerset Council's website.