A hike is expected in the price of a popular school bus pass.

The cost of a Young Persons Travel Card is set to increase ahead of the likelihood of bus companies also increasing their fares.

The pass can be used by pupils between 11 and 16-years-old, with a separate post-16 pass also available - and also set to rise by £50 to £450.

It costs £280 for the Young Persons Travel Card currently, a price that has consistently increased in recent years.

A spokesman for Kent County Council said: "KCC has made an estimate for fare rises as part of our 2018/19 budget proposals as it is possible bus companies will look to increase their fares.

“However, following a series of meetings, we are in negotiations with the bus operators to negotiate a cost increase below the current rate of inflation.

“Once this figure is agreed it will enable adjustment in the final budget. The Young Persons’ Travel Pass will increase in line with this proportionate to the necessary increase in the £8 million subsidy paid by KCC to enable continuation of the high value scheme.

“It is Council policy that any fare increases by the bus companies get passed on in full through the parent’s contribution to the Young Person’s Travel Pass.

“The draft budget does not propose any change to the amount by which KCC subsides the pass, which is £300 - £330 per pass."

The scheme is not funded by the Government, and KCC has already announced a funding gap of £53.3 million because of cuts.

A spokesman for the council added: “If a rise in the cost of the pass is necessary because bus companies decide to raise their charges, then we expect to be in a position to inform parents by April.”