TRAIN travellers from the region will be among the first to be able to use a new flexible ticket that lets passengers switch between different rail companies on their journey.

The so-called m-Ticket, which can be accessed smartphones or tablet devices, is being piloted at a number of stations.

Users download an ‘app’ or alternatively buy tickets the normal way online and then choose the option to receive their ticket as an m-Ticket.

Retailer TheTrainline.com has already signed up to take part in the pilot which aims to make buying tickets more convenient.

The new m-Ticket is available from and for travel on any CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Virgin Trains East Coast or Virgin Trains service for journeys made wholly within the pilot area.

Stations in the pilot area include: Harrogate; Starbeck; Knaresborough; Cattal; Hammerton; Poppleton; York; Thirsk; Northallerton; Darlington; Durham; Chester-le-Street; Newcastle; Dunston; Metrocentre; Blaydon; Wylam; Prudhoe; Stocksfield; Riding Mill; Corbridge and Hexham.