A new railcard is being introduced that will see military veterans of every generation benefit from discounted travel.

Part of the Government’s veterans strategy, which aims to provide support for people who have served in the military, the railcard will give an estimated 830,000 veterans who are not eligible for existing railcards up to a third off all rail fares from November 5, as well as discounted travel for adult companions and children.

Welcoming the new railcard, Andrew Stephenson, the MP for Pendle said: “The introduction of the Veteran’s Railcard fulfils a pledge in the Conservative manifesto and will help Pendle’s younger veterans, who deserve as much support as possible from the country they have served so bravely and selflessly.”

Funded by the UK Government, the new Veterans’ Railcard will help open up opportunities for former service personnel, helping veterans with employment and retraining as well as strengthening links to friends and family.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “We have an eternal debt of honour to those who have served our country, and this railcard is part of marking our gratitude.

“For veterans looking to re-enter the world of work and connect with friends and family, it will cut the cost of travel to open up new opportunities.

The very first railcard was presented by Mr Shapps to Captain Sir Tom Moore on Thursday.

Sir Tom, who served in the Second World War, won the nation’s heart after his incredible fundraising efforts this year, raising almost £33 million for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday in April.

Sir Tom said: “This is a wonderful occasion to accept the first veterans railcard.

“It is a rare opportunity to show thanks and gratitude to veterans and this railcard is a necessary recognition and investment in veterans, giving them the ability to re-connect and combat loneliness, something that we promote and support at The Captain Tom Foundation.”

The new railcard will cost £21 for an introductory period until March 31, before the price is increased to £30.

Director general of The Royal British Legion, Charles Byrne, said: “At a time when many veterans are facing significant financial hardship, we hope as many as possible will be able to enjoy the benefits this card will bring when travelling by train.”