New freedom pass for 2010. Photo: TFL

Lewisham Freedom Pass holders have something to look forward to this Friday as an exhibition roadshow will be touring Lewisham’s shopping centre to provide information and distribute application forms for current pass holders to renew their pass.

Paid for by London’s boroughs, the scheme allows Londoners aged 60 and over, and eligible disabled residents, to travel for free on all forms of public transport in the capital as well as on local buses across the country.

The passes are normally renewed every two years to help prevent fraud but the new style passes will include a passport style photo on the card and will be valid for five years.

Mayor of Lewisham, Sir Steve Bullock, said: “Freedom Passes are a fantastic way for people who are older or who have mobility problems to get around town. Make sure you renew your Freedom Pass to continue getting your free travel.”

From April 6, the age of eligibility for Freedom Passes will start to rise gradually from 60 to 65 until April 5 2020. This will match the state pension age for women, which is rising by five years over a period of 10 years.

Samantha Mauger, Chief Executive of Age Concern London, said: “The Freedom Pass helps enormously in letting older people contribute to London life and take advantage of London’s opportunities and has been an innovation London can be proud of.”

The roadshow will also be visiting Tower Hamlets on the 25th of January and Hackney on the 26th of January.

Further information about how to apply or renew your Freedom Pass is available online or via Concessionary Awards Team at Lewisham Council on 020 8314 9844. Lewisham Freedom Pass holders can contact Freedom Pass support line 0845 275 7054 or 020 7934 9633 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).