TRAVEL bosses are poised to make a U-turn on their decision to axe free train travel for the disabled and elderly.
The Chronicle understands an announcement is imminent on a deal which will see free train travel reinstated for the disabled and half price fares for pensioners.
Barnsley Central MP Dan Jarvis said: "Although we are awaiting final confirmation of this decision, it looks like common sense will prevail.
"Thanks to those who lobbied their councillors and engaged in the democratic process, it looks like a solution has been found."
It follows six weeks of protests by members of the Barnsley Retirees Action Group after travel passes were scrapped on March 31 which had given the elderly free train travel after 9am, and allowed those disabled to travel free any time. Both now have to pay full fare at all times.
The latest protest on Wednesday saw Barnsley railway station effectively sealed off by police and rail staff to stop the elderly and disabled getting in to protest. It was the first time since their protests started last month that they failed to get on a train.
Another protest at Barnsley station is planned for Monday at 11am and transport union RMT yesterday pledged full support for the campaigners, including a further demonstration on May 17.
