More students in education and training in Wiltshire will soon get cheaper train travel thanks to a change in railcard rules.
From 17 August, the 16-17 Saver Railcard will remain valid for a full year from the date of purchase, instead of expiring on the holder’s 18th birthday.
This means students who turn 18 during their academic year will continue to save 50 per cent on rail fares until the railcard expires.
Rail minister Lord Peter Hendy said: "This kind of common-sense change is exactly what passengers should expect from the railway.
"I’m proud that this change will support young people and their families to lower the cost of travel at a critical time for teenagers, whether they’re pursuing further education, vocational pathways or getting their footing in the jobs market.
"Making travel fairer and more affordable is central to the vision for Great British Railways.
"By delivering simpler fares and putting passengers first, we’re creating a railway that’s easier to use, better value for money and focused on meeting the everyday needs of the people who rely on it."
Under the previous rules, more than 70,000 young people lost out on discounted travel each year, with the average student missing savings of around £175.
The change is designed to help students reach school, college, or apprenticeships more affordably and bring the 16-17 Saver in line with other railcards, such as the 26-30 Railcard, which remains valid for a full year from purchase even if the user turns 31 during that time.
The Department for Transport said the change forms part of a wider effort to make rail travel simpler and better value ahead of the launch of Great British Railways, with measures including an expanded pay-as-you-go network and improved digital ticketing.
Jacqueline Starr, executive chair and chief executive of the Rail Delivery Group, welcomed the announcement.
She said: "The extension of the 16-17 Saver’s validity demonstrates the rail industry’s commitment to offering better value fares and delivering a more joined-up railway for customers.
"By enabling customers who turn 18 during their academic year to receive a full year of savings from the date of purchase, we’re ensuring that young people can continue to benefit from 50 per cent off rail travel throughout this important stage of their education."
The revised railcard will be available for purchase from August 17 and will cost £35 for one year.
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