A rail-ticketing trial in northern England uses mobile-phone tracking to determine fares. Passengers on Northern services between Harrogate and Leeds will be able to pay by boarding a train and tapping a button in a dedicated app. The app uses GPS in the phone to identify where a passenger alights, and the system charges the lowest applicable fare at the end of the day. A barcode is generated by the app for inspectors to scan and at station barriers.

Participants will receive £15 in free credit. The scheme is due to roll out on routes between Sheffield and Doncaster and between Sheffield and Barnsley in the coming weeks.

Lord Hendy, the rail minister, said: “We’re bringing ticketing into the 21st century. These trials are modernising fares and ticketing, making it simpler and easier for people to choose rail. As part of our Plan for Change, we’re delivering straightforward, stress-free train travel across the north, supporting passengers and boosting economic growth, jobs and homes.” The Department for Transport said participants would receive £15 of free credit soon. Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “Introducing smart, location-based ticketing will remove barriers to rail travel and make it easier to get the best value fares without the need to plan ahead. I’d encourage everyone to take part in this trial.” The same approach has been trialled on some East Midlands Railway routes, launched on 1 September.