BASILDON & Billericay MP Richard Holden joined staff from local rail operator Trenitalia c2c to support the formal launch of pay as you go with contactless ticketing across the entire c2c network. 

He tapped in at Fenchurch Street station to support the formal launch of pay as you go with contactless ticketing across the entire c2c network.  

Fifteen stations on the c2c network from London to Shoeburyness nopw offer the and payment option . 

Rob Mullen, managing director at c2c, said: "Following months of rigorous behind-the-scenes technical and operational testing, I am delighted that pay as you go with contactless has now launched and is readily available across the entire c2c network. 

"Contactless offers a fast and flexible way for customers to access our services and also those within the London Travelcard and wider pay as you go area, while removing the need to book online in advance or spend time queuing at ticket machines." 

Mr Mullen added: "It was great to see so many customers at Fenchurch Street station using pay as you go with contactless for their daily commute, and I firmly believe that the introduction of this simple and easy to understand ticketing option will make travelling with c2c quicker, more convenient and easier than ever before.  

"It really is going to be a game changer." 

Joining the launch event at Fenchurch Street, Mr Holden, said: “The launch of pay as you go with contactless across the c2c route is a real moment. It’s great to see so many people tapping their way through and the queues reduced at the stations. 

“Being able to simply tap in and out - like on the Tube - for all journeys on c2c and across the wider London transport network will make travelling for business or leisure quicker and simpler than ever.” 

Pay as you go with contactless is now available during both the peak and off-peak to all customers in possession of a valid contactless payment card or device (for example, mobile phone or smart watch).  

In addition to the c2c network, this payment method can be used across London and the wider pay as you go with contactless area, with the best value adult fare calculated and charged for journeys made on the day and time of travel. For most people, this fare is the same as a ticket bought on the day. Customers can also benefit from Monday to Sunday price capping when travelling into and within London. 

For full terms and conditions, go to nationalrail.co.uk/contactless