The deeply controversial decision to charge students to get to classes was made by the former Labour administration, and sparked a backlash from parents, teachers and political rivals.

But the authority's new Executive has now decided to reinstate free post-16 home to school transport for pupils.

Council leader Jeff Reid said: "We know that Northumberland residents have felt that scrapping post-16 transport charges was a priority and we are pleased to have been able to respond to their concerns and do just that.

"It is vitally important that all pupils have fair access to further education in Northumberland.

"We believe that providing home to school transport free of charge for all eligible post-16 students, will enhance further education opportunities for all pupils in the county."

It was also agreed that a '75 per cent rule' will also be introduced to consider transport costs for those students seeking courses outside of their catchment area or outside of the county.

Around 800 pupils currently pay for post-16 home to school transport

To qualify for assistance, students must live in Northumberland, be attending a full-time course of study and live three miles or more from the nearest high school or college. They must also be under the age of 19 at the start of their course.

Students with special educational needs may be eligible for support until they are at least 21, providing that they are on a continuous course of study.