A new money-saving railcard for veterans has been announced

A new railcard offering reduced rail ticket travel for military veterans will start on Armistice Day in November.

The railcard will save a third off most train fares and will benefit more than 830,000 veterans who don't qualify for existing discounts, the Department for Transport said.

Serving armed forces personnel will already qualify for their own railcard.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: "Every part of society should honour the debt we owe those who've served our country.

"I'm proud that the Department for Transport, together with other government colleagues and the rail industry, is doing its bit."

"This railcard will help open up opportunities to veterans, whether through employment and retraining, or by strengthening links with friends and family," he added.

"I believe that enabling former service personnel to travel more easily is the least we can do."

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An HM Forces Railcard is already available to purchase at a cost of £21 annually for serving personnel, but the new card makes it available to veterans.

The over 60s and people who have a disability can also obtain a railcard for discounted train tickets.

The veterans' railcard will cost £21 a year for a limited period, rising to £30.

Potentially, more than 830,000 people are eligible for reduced fares.

It was one of Boris Johnson's manifesto pledges during the last election campaign in 2019.

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Separately, the government established the Office for Veterans Affairs to champion the needs of veterans.

The Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer, said: "The railcard is only the start though, and I'm clear we need to do more to look after the people who so selflessly put their lives on the line to look after us.

"I look forward to continuing to drive forward this issue across government."

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