We do not often praise rail companies but we are happy to when it is due.

Well done, South Central, for reducing fares on some lines to encourage more commuters to ditch their cars and take the train.

Credit, too, to Lewes MP Norman Baker who campaigned hard with East Sussex County Council to get more people to commute by train between Seaford, Lewes, Eastbourne and Bexhill.

We often hear about how much traffic is on our roads and the damage our cars are doing to the environment so here at last is a great incentive to use public transport.

Mr Baker is right when he says it seems crazy to have cars bumper to bumper on the A27 during the rush-hour while there are plenty of empty seats on the trains doing the same journeys.

Up to a third will be slashed off the price of a rail ticket under this new scheme, which starts on Sunday.

Let's hope other rail companies take notice and implement the same idea. Imagine the difference it could make.

The new fares will be available for six months and, if successful, will be implemented longer-term.

Now it is up to all of us to vote with our feet and let the train take the strain.