EAST Lancashire's main train operator Northern is giving discounted fares to jobseekers.

As part of a national scheme, the firm is offering those looking for work up to three months discounted rail travel to attend job interviews.

Those looking for new roles in the north can apply for a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount card and receive 50 per cent discount on anytime day tickets, off-peak day tickets and season tickets for up to three months.

Northern operates the East Lancashire line from Preston to Colne via Blackburn, Accrington, Burnley and Nelson as well as services to Manchester and Clitheroe.

Mark Powles, commercial and customer director at Northern, said: “This is a small but valuable way in which we can make a positive impact for the North.

“We want to remove potential barriers for those wanting to get back into work. Helping our customers either get to and from a job interview or a place of work is a good way to achieve this.

“The past couple of years have been incredibly tough for many people and we want to play our part in helping them to get back on track and to give them the opportunity to go do their thing."