Thousands of young people who live or study in York are taking advantage of a discount card to get out and about this summer, with the help of City of York Council.

More than 5,000 young people are now using the YOzone card, launched by the council in March, which offers a huge range of benefits for youngsters up to the age of 16 years.

The main advantage of the card is the chance to use buses at discounted fares. Prices start as low as 50p for a single journey on some services if you have a YOzone card. The card also entitles children to discounts at leisure facilities, including swimming pools, leisure centres, museums and outlets, including Vue Cinema, Tenpin, Bella Italia and discounts on healthy food at Out of this World.

Bill Woolley, director of City Strategy at City of York Council, said: "The new style YOzone cards are proving a huge success and around half of all our secondary school pupils now have one. The cards are really helping young people who live and study in the city, making it easier and cheaper for them to get about.

"Thanks to all the bus companies who are taking part in the initiative and to all the schools who have been visited by our "YOzone roadshow".

The YOzone card is available free to any young person still in secondary education in years 7 - 11 who is resident and/or a student in the City of York Council area.

Young people can apply for a card online at www.york.gov.uk/roads or from the council's reception at 9, St Leonard's Place. Leaflets are also available at council receptions and libraries.