Ditch the car and travel for FREE on trains, buses and trams for 28 days during festive period

COMMUTERS are being given the chance to travel for FREE on trains, buses and trams across the region for 28 days during the run-up to Christmas.

Travel South Yorkshire (TSY) has launched the initiative to try and persuade people travelling to work in the region by car to use public transport instead.  

Employees who currently commute by car — drivers or passengers — can apply for the free 28-day travel pass, which is valid on all public transport in South Yorkshire and includes the Tram Train and use of of park and ride sites.

Richard Pilgrim, from Travel South Yorkshire’s sustainable travel team, said: “As the traffic gets more intense in the weeks before Christmas and more people are socialising straight from work, we’re encouraging commuters to ditch the car and travel for free on us. 

“By taking part in our public transport trial, you can save money, get some physical activity in to your day and help to ease congestion by taking a car off the road. And, on top of that, you’re contributing towards better air quality. 

“Since April this year, we’ve already provided 350 free travel passes for people working in different companies who wanted to change their commute to a more sustainable and active option. 

“You don’t need to be the driver, but if you’re in a car, we’d like you to try something else instead. We’re here to help people make a little change that can have a big impact on their lives and the environment.

"Around 80 per cent of participants that take part in our post-trial surveys say that they will carry on travelling to work on public transport after the trial period and a similar number would recommend using public transport to others.”

The travel passes are valid between Monday, November 25, and Sunday, December 22, and can be used for an unlimited number of journeys.

“When we hand over the tickets, we will also offer advice on the best public transport options available and where to find the information you need to make the most out of your trial,” added Richard.

The scheme is open to all workers between 18 and 64 years old that have not taken part in a similar trial before.

Commuters can apply to take part at Travel South Yorkshire’s stall (stall 67) at the free Showcase Sheffield: B2B exhibition 2019, on Wednesday, October 23, at Ponds Forge from 9.30am to 4.30pm. 

Alternatively, apply online before Friday, November 8 at travelsouthyorkshire.com/try.