ALL bus operators in Blackburn with Darwen are offering free travel to anyone going for a coronavirus jab.

The partnership between the borough council and local bus companies hopes to encourage residents who haven’t yet had their vaccinations to book appointments.

The concession applies to anyone going for a jab on vehicles operated by Transdev/The Blackburn Bus Company; Blackburn Private Hire; Travel Assist; and Moving People. Anyone going for a jab can board any bus service provided by these operators.

Free travel is also available within the borough on these out-of-town services: Preston Bus and Pilkington’s services 25, 25A and 45 (Ribble Valley) and Stagecoach services 59 (Preston) and 2A (Chorley)

To claim free travel, show an appointment confirmation to the driver. If people are using a walk-in site they should tell the driver which one they are going to.

Anyone living in outlying areas with limited bus services can contact the BwD Help Hub to arrange transport.

Cllr Mohammed Khan, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “Beating coronavirus once and for all is a massive team effort, and it’s fantastic to know we’ve got all our local transport operators on our team. I’m very grateful to them for providing this free transport. I know it will encourage some residents to take that first step to have the vaccine.”

Covid vaccination is available to over-18s in Blackburn with Darwen at Blackburn Cathedral Crypt; Saliheen Mosque, Didsbury Street, Blackburn; Allied Pharmacy, Ivy Street Community Centre, Blackburn and Everest Pharmacy, Cemetery Road, Darwen.

Walk-in clinics offering second dose Pfizer vaccines will run from July 12 to 25 at Penny Street car park and Revidge Fold United Reformed Church, Shear Brow.

Transdev commercial director Paul Turner said: “It’s very important that everyone invited to receive a jab can do so without worrying about how to get to the vaccination centre.”