A Rail company operating through north-east Oxfordshire has announced that it will offer cheap day return and saver return tickets all day on December 27, 30 and 31.

Normally on weekdays the tickets are available only after morning rush-hour trains.

Steve Murphy, Chiltern's managing director, said: "We've listened to our passengers' comments and know that they will welcome this initiative.

"This is the first time we have done this and feedback so far has shown it to be a popular decision."

Chris Bates, of the Cherwell Rail User Group, said: "This is excellent news and its another demonstration of Chiltern Railways listening to their passengers.

"We believe this is unique among London and South Eastern train operators and hope it sets a precedent for others."

On Christmas Eve, Chiltern has a normal weekday service with extra afternoon trains, but the last trains will start earlier.

No trains will run on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

But Chiltern point out the reduced price tickets are only available on their services.

The last train to London Marylebone from Birmingham Snow Hill will leave at 6pm.

From Marylebone the last train to Kidderminster will be the 5.45pm and the last to Snow Hill will be the 7.12pm.

Saturday services with minor alterations will run on December 27, 29 and 30. On December 31 there will be extra late night trains to get New Year revellers home from London.

*Chiltern operate through Haddenham and Thame Parkway, Bicester North, King's Sutton and Banbury stations.