26.07.12
Free train travel for military at Olympics
Service personnel on security duty at the Olympics are to receive free train travel to and from Games venues inside and outside London.
The offer includes free standard class travel withinLondonzones 1-9 and to and from Hadleigh Farm,Cheshunt, Brands Hatch and Eton Dorney for service personnel in uniform and carrying valid military ID.
The announcement is an extension of the current offer for free train travel to Home Office police seconded to BTP for the duration of the Olympics.
Michael Roberts, ATOC chief executive, said: “The armed services are playing a vital role in ensuring that security at Games events is effective and runs smoothly.
“Train companies want to support this extraordinary effort by offering free travel to those men and women of the armed services who are involved and recognise their part in delivering an Olympics and Paralympics that our country can be proud of.”
Justine Greening, transport secretary, commented: “The servicemen and servicewomen involved in the Olympics are doing a fantastic job at keeping everyone safe and a brilliant job, thanks in no small part to their great sense of humour, in helping to create the sort of carnival atmosphere that we all want for the Games.
“The decision by train operators to give them free travel when travelling to and from Games venues is a great way of recognising their contribution to the success of the Games.”
Defence secretary Philip Hammond added: “Our soldiers, sailors and airmen and women are working hard in supporting the Olympics security effort and this additional recognition and support to them is appreciated and well received.”
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