West Sussex County Council says its discounted bus fares scheme for all young people in the county aged 5-19 will be good for the local economy.

From September, young people will be able to use a card that not only gives them cheap bus travel but discounts with many shops and attractions. It will also act as a nationally recognised proof of age card thanks to a partnership with Citizencard.

The reduced fares scheme means that 16-19 year-olds in full time education at schools and colleges, or at work, who currently pay adult fares, will be able to travel half price at any time of the day including weekends.

Aims of the scheme include reducing congestion and pollution on the roads by encouraging a 'bus culture' among young people who rely heavily on their parents for a lift. The council is hoping that companies will spread the word to employees with a young family, so that no young person misses out on getting a card.

More details about the '3in1' card scheme including an application form and details of how to sign up for the discount scheme, can be found at www.westsussex.gov.uk