With the return to school for many young people across Cambridgeshire just days away, Great Northern’s railway ticket guru Dean Cole has shared his knowledge to help children – and their parents – save money and travel with the right ticket.

From bagging railcard discounts to ensuring students carry the right ID, Dean’s 15 years of experience at the ticket office in Huntingdon means he knows the ins and outs on how to get the best deal.

“With plenty of different fares on offer, it’s so important that people are getting the best bang for their buck and travelling on the right ticket, be it with a railcard or a student ID to get even bigger discounts,” said Dean.

Young people aged 16 and 17 in Cambridgeshire can benefit from a free Student Connect card, offering a discount of 50 per cent on season tickets for a month or longer on their school journey.

Dean added: “It’s valid across the whole region – from Peterborough all the way up to King’s Lynn and across to Norwich.

“It’s a fantastic deal for young people heading to college for their studies and we really want to support them by getting there comfortably, and for good value.

“It bridges the gap from cheaper child fares to travelling with a railcard, meaning young people can feel more confident travelling by train as they gain their independence.”

All that’s needed is a valid student ID from a participating college (see notes to editor) for the Student Connect card – which can be obtained by completing a form on the Great Northern website.

“The most important thing is that people buy their ticket, and have the right passes, before getting on a train. It’s the only way you’ll get the best deal, and avoid the risk of a penalty fare,” said Dean.

The free Cambridgeshire Student Connect card is valid only on trips to and from school or college on specific Great Northern, GreaterAnglia, CrossCountry and EMR routes.

For trips in the evenings, weekends and school holidays to see friends, family and make the most of the great destinations on the railway network, a separate 16-17 Saver pass can also land a 50 per cent discount on almost any train fare.

They can be bought for £35 online at 16-17saver.co.uk.