A TRAIN company which runs services through the News Shopper area is to issue cards to people who need to use priority seats when travelling.

Southern hopes commuters sitting in seats with a sign indicating they are for disabled and elderly people, people with small children or other medical needs will give up their seats if shown the special card.

The company runs trains through Beckenham Junction, Birkbeck and Crystal Palace to London Victoria as well as through Anerley, Penge West, Sydenham, Forest Hill, Honor Oak Park, Brockley and New Cross Gate to London Charing Cross and many other commuter lines into London.

A spokesman for Southern said: “From now on, passengers may be asked by a cardholder to give up their seat.

"The person making the request using the card will have a genuine need, and it is very much hoped that passengers will respond positively to the scheme.”

Click here for details about how to apply for a card.