Military veterans of every generation will soon benefit from cut-price rail travel, thanks to a UK Government initiative.
UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps today [13 October] presented Captain Sir Tom Moore with the very first Veterans’ Railcard.
Aimed at supporting veterans after their service, the new railcard will provide up to a third off all peak and off-peak fares, as well as discounted travel for adult companions and children. It forms part of the UK Government’s commitment to make this country the best place to be a veteran, helping repay the debt we all owe to those who have served.
At his home in Bedfordshire Captain Sir Tom Moore, who served in World War II and won the nation’s heart with his incredible fundraising efforts, was presented with the very first card.
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.
The new card will be on sale at an introductory price of just £21 until 31 March 2021.
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
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said:
Funded by the UK Government, the new Veterans’ Railcard will help open up opportunities for our former service personnel.
The UK’s military make huge sacrifices to keep our country safe. It is only right that we continue to show how much we value their efforts once they leave the armed forces.
This new railcard will help veterans with employment and retraining, and strengthen links to friends and family. It is part of us repaying our huge debt to all those who have served for our country. I am very proud of this UK Government initiative.
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.
