'Two Together Railcard' goes on sale

A new national railcard allowing two people travelling together to save a third on train fares has gone on sale.

The £30-a-year "Two Together Railcard" can be used on journeys after 09:30 on weekdays and all day at weekends by two named and photographed people.

Railcards were previously only available to those under 26, over 60, disabled, serving in the armed forces or travelling with children.

It is the first new national railcard to be launched for 30 years.

The new card can be used to save on standard and first class anytime, off-peak and advance tickets for travel throughout Britain after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day on weekends and bank holidays.

For example, two super off-peak single tickets from Birmingham New Street to London Euston, which would normally cost £45.80, would cost £30.50 - a saving of £15.30 - for two passengers using the new railcard.

Two advance single tickets from Newcastle to Leeds will now cost £14.50 - saving £7.50.

David Mapp, commercial director at the Association of Train Operating Companies, said: "It's ideal for visiting family and friends, day trips or weekend breaks, so the Two Together Railcard will encourage more people to leave the car at home and take the train instead.

"As well as savings on rail travel, the new railcard also offers savings on attractions, theatre shows, restaurants, hotels and more."

Any two people can apply to buy the railcard - whether they are a couple, relatives, colleagues who regularly share a trip or commute, or two friends who regularly travel together. But the discount will only apply to journeys they are on together.