A group of retired people are planning a public protest outside Croydon’s council chamber over fears they will lose their free travel benefits.

Members of the Unite Croydon Retired Members Association believe proposed changes to the Greater London Authority Act(GLAA) could lead to their Freedom Passes being watered down.

The passes currently allow anyone over 60 to free travel on London buses, the Tube and Tramlink, as well the London Overground and certain rail services.

A council spokesman categorically denied it had any plans - or the legal power - to reduce the travel benefits, but said the authority supported the proposed changes to the GLAA.

He said: “The legislation will ensure that the cost picked up by all London authorities continues to be on a fair and equitable basis.

“We want to be completely clear that Croydon values the Freedom Pass system enormously, and sincerely hopes that it continues in its present form without putting additional burdens on local taxpayers.”

The demonstration is planned for the next meeting of Croydon Council at the town hall, Katherine Street on October 18.