Military veterans across Southport will soon benefit from cut-price rail travel, thanks to a new Government initiative.

The news came as Transport Secretary Grant Shapps today presented Captain Sir Tom Moore, who served in World War II and won the nation’s heart with his incredible fundraising efforts, with the very first Veterans’ Railcard.

Aimed at supporting veterans after their service, the card will provide up to a third off all peak and off-peak fares, as well as discounted travel for adult companions and children. It also forms part of the Government’s commitment to make the country the best place to be a veteran.

The card pays tribute to the Royal Navy, RAF and Army, using the colours featured on the veterans’ flag. An estimated 830,000 veterans, who are not eligible for existing railcards, will now be able to get up to a third off rail travel from 5 November 2020. It will be on sale at an introductory price of £21 until 31 March 2021.

Welcoming the new scheme, Damien Moore, the MP for Southport, said: “Our town is proud of the veterans who serve our country and I hope the new Veterans’ Railcard will be a welcome initiative for all those who serve our country with such distinction.

“Captain Sir Tom Moore has become a hero of the nation both for his sterling fundraising efforts earlier this year and also for his previous service in the Armed Forces, and it was fitting that he should receive the very first Veterans’ Railcard.”

Grant Shapps, UK Transport Secretary, said: “We have an eternal debt of honour to those who have served our country, and this railcard is part of marking our gratitude. For veterans looking to re-enter the world of work and connect with friends and family, it will cut the cost of travel to open up new opportunities.

“I am also delighted to present Sir Captain Tom Moore with the very first railcard. Through his service and his inspirational fundraising, he has shown the selflessness and indomitable spirit of all those who have served.”

Funded by the UK Government, the new Veterans’ Railcard will help open up opportunities for former service personnel, helping veterans with employment and retraining as well as strengthening links to friends and family.

Captain Sir Tom Moore, Captain Tom Foundation, said: “This is a wonderful occasion to accept the first veterans’ rail card.
“It is a rare opportunity to show thanks and gratitude to veterans and this rail card is a necessary recognition and investment in veterans, giving them the ability to re-connect and combat loneliness, something that we promote and support at The Captain Tom Foundation.”

Why if they are giving them to veterans does it cost £21, and you only get UP TO a third off travel, how does this compare to a student railcard?.
This looks like a lot of cheap talk helped along by a well known character in the hope it’s seen as more than what it really is, smoke and mirrors covered bull.