Derbyshire Gold Card holders renewal reminder

Thousands of cards which entitle older people and those with certain disabilities to free off-peak local bus travel are due to expire in the next few months.

Derbyshire Gold Card holders are being urged to check the validity dates on their cards, which can also be used to get discounts at some 700 shops and businesses and to borrow items from any county library.

Most Gold Cards are valid for five years, with around 108,000 of the 185,000 currently in circulation due for renewal soon – with the majority expiring in September and October 2017.

If you are an existing Gold Card holder who has not yet received a new one, and your card expires within the next two months, you can fill in an online form to renew your Gold card.

Those without internet access can call the district council tel: 01283 595795 or visit the Civic Offices in Swadlincote.

Cllr Trevor Ainsworth, Derbyshire County Council’s Deputy Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, said: “Cards are issued automatically when the personal information we hold exactly matches electoral data. Where we haven't been able to check this, card holders will have to renew themselves.

“It is simple to renew and hundreds have already successfully requested new cards. I would encourage others to follow this lead so they can continue to benefit from free travel and other discounts.”

The application form can be completed by Gold Card holders whose circumstances have not changed since they were issued with their current card, and disabled card holders who do not need to show continuing proof of eligibility.

Any card holder whose circumstances have changed since they were issued with their present card - for example those who have moved address within Derbyshire or changed their name - cannot apply online.

Online renewals can also be made at Derbyshire libraries, where staff can help if required.

First-time Gold Card applicants will need to download and complete an application form.

Card holders who move out of Derbyshire are no longer eligible for a Gold Card but may still apply for the equivalent in their new local authority area.

18 August 2017