FREE bus passes are one of Labour's three pledges to the elderly, shadow transport minister Michael Dugher promised during a visit to Keighley bus station yesterday.

And speaking on Bradford's second day of bus strikes, he also urged First bosses to seek an urgent solution through more dialogue with the workers.

Mr Dugher visited the town with Keighley Labour prospective parliamentary candidate John Grogan and said all over 60s should receive passes.

"Buses are lifelines which link or cities, towns and rural areas and we are 100 per cent committed to the free bus pass, just as we are to the winter fuel allowance and free TV licences - that's Ed Milliband's triple offer to pensioners," Mr Dugher said.

He said the free bus passes would mean the cost of travel was one thing the elderly did not have to worry about.

According to Labour's figures, over the last five years, bus fares have risen by over 27 per cent on average and which would impact on pensioners if the bus pass become means tested.

The party believes the free bus pass for pensioners leads to social, economic, health and well-being benefits and Labour is guaranteeing that this will not be put at risk.

"It gives people peace of mind about travel and accessing places, and that's really important," Mr Dugher said.

And he also praised Mr Grogan, a former MP for Selby, for his part in the initial creation of the free bus pass scheme.

Speaking about the industrial dispute between First and drivers in Bradford, Mr Dugher said: "No-one wants to see strike action. We want the bus company to get back round the table with the drivers, listen and come to a sensible solution and settlement."

Election candidate Mr Grogan added: "The free pass is the greatest measure to combat loneliness amongst older people.

"However much or how little money you've got in your purse you can still get on the bus and enjoy this beautiful county."

The politicians were joined by members of Crossflatts Over 50s club.

Its assistant secretary, May Cunningham, said free bus passes were vital to many of the district's elderly.

"A group of our ladies said they'd be housebound without them.

"They simply can't afford bus fares. The fare from Eldwick to Bingley is £1.80 and one of my ladies said the bus pass saves her £20 a week.

"Never mind getting to the doctors or the shops, getting out on the buses is what keeps many of them going," said Mrs Cunningham, 74.

Other parliamentary candidates standing in Keighley and Ilkley are: Ros Brown (Green Party); Gareth Daniel (Liberal Democrats); Kris Hopkins (Conservative) and Paul Latham (Ukip).