Bus passengers will be hit in the pocket after bus operator Stagecoach North West announced inflation-busting fare rises.

Fares in Lancashire will rise by an average of six per cent from February 19.

The increase comes less than a year after a previous price hike in March 2005.

Most single and return fares will be increased although most daily and weekly ticket prices remain unchanged. Single fares in Chorley will go up by between 5p and 25p.

Return fares are also being increased, and the cheaper off-peak return fares available on some routes are being withdrawn.

A new day ticket is being introduced to replace off-peak returns, the Lancashire Day Explorer ticket, priced at £4, is available throughout the county at off-peak times.

Stagecoach North West managing director, Nigel Barrett, said: "Since the last fares review in March 2005, operating costs, particularly fuel, have risen much faster than the level of inflation.

"However, many regular customers will not be affected, and concessionary customers in particular can look forward to cheaper travel from April when local authorities introduce their new schemes allowing free travel within district boundaries at off-peak times."

Regular bus user, James Willis, 47, of Preston Road, Whittle-le-Woods, said: "Many people rely on buses to get around and to have two increases in less than a year in a bit much. A lot of bus passengers aren't well off and will find it hard to find more cash for fares."

Pensioner Margaret Mayor, from Astley Village, said: "It's a big rise, but we get a reasonable service and the new bus station in Chorley is a massive improvement."