News that the Oyster card scheme is to be extended to two more train stations has been welcomed by Hertsmere Borough Council.

The Department for Transport announced at the end of November that the contactless payment travel system will be extended on the Thameslink and Great Northern railways meaning commuters using Radlett and Potters Bar will be eligible to take part in the scheme. St Albans City and Harpenden will also benefit too.

Currently, the Oyster card is only in use up to Elstree & Borehamwood train station on the Thameslink line.

Hertsmere MP Oliver Dowden pledged to get the extension of Oyster and despite a number of delays, he was “delighted” with the breakthrough.

He said: “The delays in introducing it this year have been bitterly disappointing to everyone but I am pleased that it will finally be delivered next year.

“I will monitor the progress of this closely to ensure that the Department for Transport sticks to its promises.”

The borough council has also welcomed the news.

Cllr Seamus Quilty, responsible for transport, said: “We have previously highlighted with Transport for London and Hertfordshire County Council the importance of having more joined up ticketing between transport operators in Greater London and Hertfordshire. The extension of the Oyster card scheme will be good news for the many rail passengers who travel from Radlett and Potters Bar into the capital.

“Hopefully, many people will take advantage of this opportunity to buy a card and enjoy easy access to London and in doing so, reduce dependence on the car for journeys in and out of London.”

Oyster cards are reusable electronic tickets which are topped up by users and can be used on the Tube, Overground, TfL Rail, tram, buses and DLR.

The scheme is set to be extended to Radlett and Potters Bar by the end of next year and will run along stations all the way to Luton Airport Parkway.

An also "delighted" Anne Main, MP for St Albans City, added: "I don't think I have had a meeting with any transport secretary or minister in the last few years without bringing this up."