CONTACTLESS payments are now being accepted on buses operated by First Kernow.

The operator is the first in Cornwall to introduce contactless debit and credit card payments, and passengers can also use Apple or Android Pay to buy tickets on 164 buses in the county.

Other bus companies will be following suit soon, says Cornwall Council, which is working with public transport operators to improve and modernise services in the county.

A First spokeserpson said: ‘The contactless option on First Kernow buses removes the need to carry cash, while the fast and easy contactless payment will improve boarding times and lead to quicker bus journeys.’

Total contactless spending in the UK went up in the past year to £4billion, and First managing director Alex Carter said he was ‘very proud’ to be joining the trend.

He said: ‘This improvement will be warmly welcomed by both local residents and visitors exploring Cornwall.’

Meanwhile Cornwall Council’s Cabinet member for Transport Geoff Brown has also welcomed the introduction of contactless payment.

‘This is another key milestone in delivery of the One Public Transport System across Cornwall,’ said Cllr Brown.

‘Contactless ticketing on First Kernow services is being delivered in partnership with Cornwall Council as part of a wider programme of public transport improvements.

‘Over the coming months contactless ticketing will be available on all local bus services in Cornwall.

‘Further improvements to roadside waiting facilities and real time information will also be undertaken as part of this enhancement programme.’