A TRAIN operator which offers services to and from Southampton is offering free onward travel for Ukrainian refugees arriving in Britain.

South Western Railway is now taking part in the free train travel for Ukrainians scheme.

This comes after the nationwide scheme, aimed at helping people reach their final British destination following arrival in the country, was launched on Sunday, March 20.

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Jac Starr, Chief Executive Officer at the Rail Delivery Group, said free travel was introduced as it "is the right thing to do."

In order to qualify for the free travel, refugees will have to show a Ukrainian passport and a boarding pass or ticket showing their arrival in the UK.

Ukrainian nationals must have arrived in Britain in the past 48 hours to be eligible.

This offer is valid across all train operators in England, Scotland and Wales.  

Ms Starr said: "We have all been shocked by the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine.

"As an industry we know this is the right thing to do, making sure families affected by this tragedy can be reunited as quickly as possible, and helping others get to safety." 

Those from Ukraine will be able to use London Underground/DLR services if their journey requires them to travel between London national rail stations.  

Visit www.southwesternrailway.com/plan-my-journey to help find your journey.