Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP Elena Whitham has welcomed the Scottish Government's decision to scrap peak fares on Scotrail trains this summer.

She encouraged constituents, especially commuters, to use the train to save money, and she said the move would be a big boost to Ayrshire tourism during the summer months.

The pilot scheme scrapping peak fares, which came into effect in October last year, was originally due to end on  June 28, but will now continue for a further three months until the end of September.

Since the peak fares were abolished, passengers across Scotland have been saving as much as £26.20 per return journey. 

Ms Whitham said the move was making travel more affordable and accessible for households in Ayrshire while helping to drive forward Scotland’s journey to Net Zero.

She added: “It’s great that the Scottish Government has said that peak fares will continue to be scrapped on Scotrail trains for a further three months.

"This is good news for commuters in Ayrshire, who have benefited most from price cuts on rush hour journeys.

“Thanks to this continued funding, travellers local and new to Scotland will now be able to make the most of what our beautiful country has to offer this summer – and at an affordable price. This is sure to give an added boost to Scotland’s tourism sector, while putting money back into people’s pockets.

“Wherever it can, the SNP is supporting Scottish households through the Tory cost of living crisis, delivering on low-carbon travel and tackling the climate crisis.”