Millennial railcard launches for first time (but is only available for East Anglia residents)

The 26-30 Railcard trial has begun, but only a select few can make use of it

The much-anticipated 'millennial railcard' has launched (Getty)

The much talked of 26-30 Railcard, dubbed the “millennial railcard”, has launched, offering a third off train travel all across the UK.

However, during the trial period the new money-saving card, which will save customers £190 a year on average, is only available to those living in East Anglia. Only 10,000 railcards are available during the trial.

Going with the millennial vibe, the railcard is only available digitally – travellers must download the app and use the railcard through their smartphone. It must also be purchased online (26-30railcard.co.uk) or over the phone rather than at the station.

Costing £30, it will usually pay for itself within two journeys. The railcard is valid on most routes, but cannot be used for season, Eurostar or first-class tickets, and is also invalid on most London Underground and Docklands Light Railway journeys. A minimum fare of £12 will also apply to all journeys made between 4.30am and 10am, Monday to Friday, apart from on advance tickets.

Those wishing to purchase the railcard must have a valid passport or UK driving licence to verify their identity, a digital passport-style photo saved to their computer or mobile phone and a debit or credit card.

Jacqueline Starr, managing director of customer experience at the Rail Delivery Group, said in a statement: “The railway, working together in partnership, will be building on the millions of Railcard discounts currently offered. Our plan to change and improve rail journeys, for now and the long term, will see the railway playing an even greater role in supporting people to make journeys that help forge relationships. It will enable more people to benefit from the opportunities that travelling by train opens up.”

Philip Hammond announced the railcard launch during his Budget speech, despite the initial pilot scheme being a small-scale affair. He told Parliament: “I can announce a new railcard for those aged 26 to 30, giving 4.5 million more young people a third off their rail fares.”

A final decision on whether to roll-out the scheme to all eligible young people nationwide is unlikely to be taken before the trial is over.