Southeastern has introduced a new train service to help pupils get home from school in Kent.

The additional weekday service will operate between Faversham and Ramsgate.

The service, which departs Faversham at 15:15, was introduced following a request by a college in Westgate-on-Sea where a change to its finishing time would mean children would have to wait an hour for the next service.

On arrival at Ramsgate, the train will join up with another train to form the 16:07 service to Charing Cross via Canterbury West and Ashford International.

“We know our railway provides access to education, employment and training opportunities for millions of people across the south-east.

“The introduction of this additional train is an example of how we’re working with communities to provide a better service. We hope it will make it easier for children to get home, while removing the need for more car journeys in the area.

Mark Wittekopf, from Southeastern’s train planning team