Over 80,000 people in the area have so far registered for the National Entitlement Card.

Known in Fife as the Myfife card, it allows anyone aged 60 or over or registered as disabled free bus travel anywhere in Scotland on local buses and long distanced scheduled coaches.

Launched nearly two years ago, 1.1 million people across the country have so far taken advantage of the concessionary travel scheme operated by Transport Scotland.

Retired teacher Fiona Lawrenson (64), who uses her concessionary travel card to visit her grandchildren more regularly, is urging others not to miss out.

Fiona often takes the bus from her home in Falkland to her daughter's house in Aberdeen and makes regular shopping trips to Edinburgh with her husband Michael (72).

She said: "My concessionary travel card has made it much easier to stay in touch with my family.

"I'd advise anyone who has yet to apply for their card to start taking advantage of the scheme as soon as possible."

The National Entitlement Card is a multi-application card issued by the Scottish Government in partnership with local authorities.

As well as the free bus scheme, the Myfife card may be used to access other Fife Council services.

Councillor Tony Martin, chair of the council's transportation and environment committee said: "We hope that those yet to sign up to the National Entitlement Card don't miss out on the benefits and register as soon as possible."

Over 400 buses so far in Scotland have been fitted with new electronic ticketing machines (ETM) with all buses being equipped on a rolling programme.

The new ticketing equipment will accurately record journeys, aims to reduce the scope for fraud and error and introduces a fair and accurate reimbursement process for bus operators.

Applicants should register for the Myfife card by calling 08451 55 00 66.