STUDENTS from North Berwick High School were left puzzled this morning when bus drivers informed them they would be expected to pay for their free school travel from tomorrow (Tuesday).
The confusion came as a scheme allowing free bus travel for everyone in Scotland under the age of 22 launched today.
The free travel plan was agreed under the 2021 SNP/Green budget deal.
Young people will be required to apply for a card which entitles the free travel.
To qualify, anyone under 22 must have a new or replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot National Entitlement Card (Young Scot NEC).
Previously issued cards will not work.
However, the new cards will not be required for free home-to-school transport.
Robert Jones, depute headteacher of North Berwick High School, said that some pupils were informed by bus drivers this morning that they would have to start paying for their journey unless they had new cards.
But Mr Jones confirmed: "This was a mistake by the drivers.
"The drivers will be spoken to today.
"Please rest assured that the pupils' current smartcards will remain valid."
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