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Thousands of children can travel for free this summer thanks to an annual initiative.

Between Saturday, July 18, and Monday, August 31, children aged 11 and under can travel for free on Go North East buses with a fare paying adult.

In previous school holidays, up to three children could travel for free but this year, there will be no limit on the number of children that can travel.

In May, the Department of Transport announced a new scheme that would allow free bus travel for all five to 15-year-olds between Saturday, August 1, and Monday, August 31.

Families can travel for less this summer as ‘Kids Go Free’ returns to the North East.

placeholder image — Families can travel for less this summer as ‘Kids Go Free’ returns to the North East.

Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, said: "Free bus travel for every child in August means parents can plan days out, visit loved ones and make the most of the holidays without the added financial pressure.”

The scheme includes English National Concessionary Travel Scheme card holders but excludes under 22 products, student tickets and Go North East’s five to 25 products.