CASH-strapped pensioners could see travel tokens and car park concessions restored if a proposal to Wychavon District Council is given the green light.

At last night (Tuesday's) full council meeting, Liberal Democrat councillors were due to propose that help with travelling costs be reinstated after they were withdrawn in last year's budget.

Currently only pensioners aged over 80 are eligible for travel tokens, which act as vouchers to pay for journeys on public transport. There are no concessions available on car parking charges.

The Liberal Democrats claim that the district council's figure shows 8,000 fewer elderly residents are taking up the remaining concession of half price bus passes.

Margaret Rowley, leader of the Liberal Democrat group, said: "The half price bus scheme, although successful in areas where there is adequate public transport, does not meet the needs of large numbers of older people.

"With 8,000 fewer pensioners taking up the bus pass compared to travel tokens and car park concessions, it is clear that the Tories have failed our older people." The Liberal Democrats are proposing:

l A half-price bus pass for all journeys starting or finishing in Worcestershire

l Transport tokens to the value of £25 in urban areas and £40 in rural areas

l Car parking tickets for £15 for urban residents and £25 for rural residents

The options were set to be submitted last night.