INVERCLYDE'S MSP is urging passengers get on board a new discounted rail fare scheme.

Stuart McMillan is hoping local residents make the most of discounts for train travel following the conclusion of Scotrail’s Peak Fare Removal Pilot

Peak rail fares were reinstated on Friday (September 27) for those travelling at peak time, as were super off-peak fares on certain routes.

A 12-month discount on season tickets and new “flexi passes” – allowing commuters to book 12 single journeys for the price of 10 – will also be rolled out.

Mr McMillan said: “I met with ScotRail representatives today to discuss the resumption of the newly-introduced timetable for Inverclyde and am pleased that, following the acceptance of the pay deal by all four trade unions, ScotRail will restore the full timetable on Monday 7th October.

“This is great news for customers and means ScotRail can focus on delivering a great service for passengers.

"I have been assured that they have been working round the clock to deliver this in a very short space of time because they know how important a full service is to their customers.

“I also asked ScotRail about their workforce planning to try to avoid the disruption passengers experienced this summer as much as possible."

The Greenock and Inverclyde MSP believes the new discounts should make rail travel more accessible.

He said: "While I appreciate that the end of the off-peak fares pilot is disappointing for passengers, new discounts have been introduced to help make sure that rail services are accessible for passengers while providing adequate funding to ensure they meet the needs of the public.

“I would encourage anyone who requires further information on which option is best for them to visit their local ticket office or ScotRail’s website for guidance.

“The Scottish Government continues to be committed to finding ways to make sustainable travel modes more attractive and supporting people to take fewer journeys by car – and I will continue to encourage people across Inverclyde to make use of our fantastic, publicly-owned rail services and take this opportunity to utilise the new discounts available.”

For more information visit https://www.scotrail.co.uk/tickets/discounts-regular-travellers.