Bus operator Stagecoach has announced that only exact fares will be accepted on its services in south Wales due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The new rules will come into place on Monday, May 4.

The company has urged passengers to use contactless, mobile or pre-payment methods first before handing over physical money.

As part of the temporary arrangement, bus drivers will not be able to hand out change. However, additional cash handed over by passengers will in turn be donated to the NHS Charities Together Appeal, which supports NHS staff and workers.

With all non-essential travel banned and many people working from home due to lockdown measures, a number of key workers are still relying on public transport to get to work.

Nigel Winter, managing director for Stagecoach in south Wales, said: “We would like to thank our customers for their help in keeping our drivers and their fellow passengers safe at the current time. 

“Although the majority of customers are now using contactless and other digital forms of payment, many key workers still rely on cash to pay for their journey.

“Along with the other steps we are taking in line with government and public health guidance, this additional exact fare measure will mean everyone who needs to travel can do so and stay safe.

“We are very proud of the incredible job all key workers, including our own drivers and support teams, are doing as part of the national effort.”

During the coronavirus pandemic, Stagecoach has installed protective screens on its buses and is carrying out extra cleaning on buses, with customers encouraged to adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Drivers have also been provided with hand sanitiser, while social distancing guidelines have been enforced at depots.

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