Rail discounts for pairs of adults travelling together launched today

A new railcard goes on sale today offering couples and other pairs of adults a third off fares, in a move welcomed by ministers as tackling the cost of travel.

The 'Two Together' railcard, the first new railcard in 30 years, costs £30 and is for two named people travelling together, and gives a third off standard and first class anytime, off-peak and advanced fares. The railcard is expected to help persuade people travelling together switch from cars.

The transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin welcomed the "innovative product". He said: "Even more passengers can make the most of the many benefits of travelling by train."