ONE of Cumbria's biggest train operators is giving away 10,000 free return tickets for travel aboard its new fleet of trains across the north of England.

The giveaway is part of a campaign by TransPennine Express, which runs trains on the Lakes Line from Oxenholme to Windermere, to get commuters to leave their cars at home and try train travel as an environmentally-friendly alternative.

Managing director of TPE Vernon Barker said: "Our aim is to encourage anyone who automatically thinks about driving to leave their car keys behind and enjoy a free journey by train. We are confident that they will be favourably impressed."

The campaign began on February 5.

For details, visit the company's website on www.trainticketsforfree.com