At the moment those entitled to concessionary fares can travel free within district boundaries and for 50p to other areas.

But a meeting of the Lancashire Leaders and Chief Executives group, made up of the 14 local councils, has been held to discuss whether or not prices should rise county wide.

Various options have been put forward although a decision has not yet been reached. However, all councils do not have to adhere to any recommendation the group makes.

Representatives from Preston, Chorley, South Ribble, Ribble Valley, Fylde, Wyre and Lancaster councils will meet again with neighbouring authorities on February 12 in Lancaster before their budgets are finalised.

The Government gives all councils money to subsidise their concessionary fares, but individual councils also have to put in their own funds and can charge for travel outside district boundaries for one more year.

A Department for Transport spokesman said: "Come 2008, all authorities will be legally obliged to provide free travel for pensioners and disabled people within and across boundaries.

"But until then it's up to the authorities if they want to raise their fares."

Lancashire County Council's transport boss Tony Martin, who has no say over the latest concession fare changes, said: "If these rises happen then it's an absolute disgrace. It seems to me that the district councils are crying crocodile tears and taking advantage of the Government. It's another rip off."

Read more in Thursday's Evening Post.