Bus passengers travelling on the Kinmel Bay to Rhos on Sea service last Friday were able to voice their concerns to the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales and Clwyd West AM Darren Millar.

Darren and the Older People's Commissioner for Wales, Sarah Rochira, decided to make themselves more accessible to older residents by joining them on the morning bus journey.

Throughout the journey they chatted with local older people about a range of issues including health services, support for families, social care and the local economy.

Darren said:

“The bus surgery was a great success with many issues raised by those on board.  

“I like to make myself available to all my constituents, but realise that they can’t always come to me. This was a great way to have a chat with them about issues affecting them without them having to go out of their way to book an appointment.

“We met some great people including a 98 year old veteran from Rhos who was celebrating his birthday!

“This surgery is something we have done before I would like to thank Arriva for once again accommodating us. I look forward to holding further surgeries in the future.”  

The Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Sarah Rochira, said:

“It was wonderful to spend a morning travelling on Arriva Buses Wales routes with Clwyd West AM Darren Miller, meeting with passengers and hearing from them about just how important the provision is.

“For many older people, their free bus pass and the Arriva network in North Wales and Chester are indispensable lifelines that allow them to meet friends and family, visit the shops, attend GP appointments and remain a part of their local communities.

“Our bus networks are therefore vital to the maintenance of the health, independence and wellbeing of so many older people, especially those that live in isolated, rural locations, and should be seen as the essential community assets they are.”