Train operators giving away ‘golden tickets’ for free rail travel for a year - how to get one

Train operators are giving away a limited number of “golden tickets” to encourage workers who have missed out on travelling due to the pandemic to take a well-earned day off.

The tickets will grant the lucky winners free rail travel across the UK for an entire year, allowing people to make the most of a relaxing staycation.

Workers urged to take a break

A survey of 2,781 UK adults commissioned by the rail industry found that 28 per cent of people have not yet taken any annual leave this year.

The survey found that one in four (24 per cent) said they were waiting for Covid-19 restrictions to be lifted before booking any time off.

In England, all lockdown restrictions are due to be lifted on Monday (19 July) just before schools break up for the summer holidays, which may inspire more workers to take a long-awaited break.

Meanwhile, Scotland will move to Level 0 from 19 July and Wales will move fully into alert level one from 17 July, meaning up to six people can meet indoors in private homes and holiday accommodation.