As part of the government's Great British Summer Savings Scheme, more than 14.5 million children used the bus for free this summer.

Bus companies across the country have reported major increases in passengers, with kids aged five to 15 able to travel from 1 to 31 August.

Buses and Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: "Whether it’s a trip to the seaside, a park or a museum, it’s great to see that millions of children used the bus for free this summer.

"The Great British Summer Savings Scheme has given families room to breathe from the cost-of-living squeeze. We’re getting passengers back on the bus, transforming services across the country, from capping fares at £2 from next year to 24/7 bus services for disabled passengers."

Graham Vidler, Chief Executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said: "Our members are proud to have delivered over 14 million free child journeys this summer – equivalent to two for every young person in England. Millions of children and their families have explored their local area and experienced the freedom of travelling by bus.

"As we head into autumn, the nation’s buses are still there to get children to school and for customers to continue exploring, with great value ticketing options available up and down the country."