Thousands of train tickets are up for grabs after Merseyrail announced a new cultural deal with Liverpool City Council.

To mark the agreement, 2,000 free rail return journeys are on offer for use across Merseyrail’s Wirral and Northern Line network on 14 August.

The travel provider has been named as an official cultural partner for the city which will see it support Liverpool’s significant events programme.

The arrangement is an attempt by the council and Merseyrail to make it easier for people across the North West to visit cultural attractions in the city.

Councillor Wendy Simon, assistant mayor and cabinet member for culture, tourism and events, says: “We are delighted that Merseyrail is an official cultural partner and it makes a real statement that such a strong and established brand understands the value of culture to Liverpool and the wider city region.

“We look forward to working with Merseyrail on our next big event – the new-look fireworks display in November – and together we can make sure the thousands who attend will have an unforgettable experience, for all the right reasons.”

A Merseyrail spokesperson adds: “We are very pleased to continue our official association with Liverpool’s cultural programme, for the first time giving away complimentary tickets for return travel anywhere on the Merseyrail network for one day.

“We hope that this gesture will encourage people who don’t usually take the train to give it a go, and that their experience on Merseyrail will add to the overall success of their trips out.

“With the city’s cultural offer richer and more vibrant than ever, we are keen to encourage people, whether they’re from the area or beyond, to take advantage of the wide range of events and activities available locally.”

The free tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis – to register for your chance to win visit www.merseyrail.org/culture.

Related posts:

‘Cutting-edge’ youth centre launches in Wirral High-flying display team added to River of Light line-up Full line-up of Liverpool film events celebrating black actors More cultural events for Wirral in 2017 Wirral’s Shirley Ballas ‘over the moon’ about ‘Strictly’ role Historic Birkenhead swimming baths to reopen as new community centre