Two rail companies have become part of a government-backed initiative enabling travellers to board competing services without additional cost when their original train is axed.
The programme, established by the Department for Transport, commences on September 20.
Holders of valid tickets will be permitted to use an alternative service departing within two hours preceding or one hour following their cancelled journey, provided the route is direct or reasonably comparable.
Alongside state-owned railway companies, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Avanti West Coast and Chiltern Railways are now offering automatic ticket acceptance.
Additional participating operators comprise Gatwick Express, Great Northern, LNER, Southeastern, Thameslink and South Western Railway.
Travellers must present their original ticket to railway personnel as verification of purchase.
Rail Minister Lord Hendy commented that the change represents a straightforward common-sense approach prioritising passenger needs.
He noted that disruptions should not result in passengers being abandoned due to an uncoordinated rail network.
He added that from the scheme’s launch, those whose trains are cancelled could board another operator’s service and continue their trip without further payment.
The minister stated that the government was undertaking fundamental reform of the railway system, making it more straightforward, equitable and accessible as preparations advance for Great British Railways and the restoration of public service principles.
The administration is allocating £156 million toward modern ticketing infrastructure, with the goal of introducing contactless payment options at an additional 100 stations across Greater Manchester, the Midlands and the south-east by 2027.