Local train operator Great Western Railway launched a new pay-as-you-go smartcard to roll payments and tickets into one, ensuring customers get the best value on the day of travel.

The GWR touch smartcard will be available to use across the west of England area and valid on GWR, Cross Country and Transport for Wales rail services within the pay-as-you-go boundary.

Users will no longer need to buy a train ticket before jumping on a train in the pay-as-you-go travel area. They will instead just touch in and touch out on yellow smartcard readers on the ticket gates or platform validators for each journey they make, and at the end of the day be charged the best walk-up fare. Should journeys be delayed, the train operator will let customers know if they're eligible for compensation.

Dan Norris, West of England Metro Mayor, said: 

“If we are going to reach our really ambitious net-zero-by-2030 target, we need to make it as easy and affordable as possible for West of Englanders to use public transport. This will help us cut congestion, improve road safety and begin to clean up our air too."

Lee Edworthy, Head of Retail, Great Western Railway, said: 

“We’re delighted to be able to introduce this innovative new product, making it easier for people to take advantage of using the train in the Bristol area."