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The Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) today announced changes to the Family Railcard, which will take effect on 28 May 2000.
The Family Railcard is a nationwide service provided by Britain's passenger train companies on a voluntary basis, and makes family travel more affordable. The changes to the product will see children being able to travel for as little as £1 for short journeys throughout the country - a benefit not offered to Family Railcard users throughout Britain since 1994.
Independent market research conducted for ATOC showed that Family Railcard customers would prefer to receive a higher discount on the full adult fare than pay the full adult fare and take accompanying children free. The new scheme abolishes the flat-rate £2.00 ticket price for accompanying children and gives a 60% discount off the normal child fare (min £1). A larger discount for adults applies by abolishing the 20% discount on some tickets and replacing it with a 33% discount.
George Muir, Director General of ATOC, said: "We designed the Family Railcard changes to respond to passenger views and be fairer across the board. A typical family of two adults and two children will save 43% on the full ticket price under the new scheme. We hope the changes will encourage families to use the trains more often for days out".
ENDS
For information contact: ATOC press office 020 7904 3010
