Ministers have hailed a "significant milestone moment" as figures show more than 150 million bus journeys have been completed since the introduction of free travel for under-22s in Scotland.

The Young Persons’ (under-22) Free Bus Travel Scheme began on January 31, 2022, and gives all those aged five to 21 years old the ability to travel on public transport  free of charge.

The scheme aims to encourage more sustainable travel and tackle issues related to transport poverty by encouraging more young people to start travelling by bus at an early age and opening up social, education, employment and leisure opportunities.

Commenting on the figures, Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, said: “I’m delighted that young people all over Scotland have now made over 150 million journeys using their free bus pass.

“The scheme is making a huge difference for children, young people and their families – with this transformational policy making sustainable travel easier and cheaper for them each and every day.

“It’s not just about the number of journeys, it’s about what these journeys mean. It's opening doors to new opportunities, keeping people connected and making sustainable transport more affordable – giving Scotland’s children and young people the very best chance to succeed in life.

"I want to thank every young person who is using Scotland’s buses responsibly – and in doing so, playing their part in cutting emissions and taking climate action.”