REDDITCH has become the first non-constituent town in the West Midlands to roll out a new smart travelcard.

Thousands of bus users in Redditch are now able to use the ‘Swift’ card - West Midlands’ own smart travelcard - on all Diamond and Johnsons bus services in the town.

Users pay cheaper fares than with cash and there are a range of products to suit people’s needs, such as a pay-as-you go option, or one or four-week season tickets.

The card was officially launched on Saturday at the town’s bus station.

Councillor Bill Hartnett, leader of Redditch Borough Council, said he was delighted that Redditch is the first non-constituent town to use the card.

“We had a great reception with the local bus users quick to sign up for the pay as you go card,” he said.

“The card is quick and easy to use can be topped up online or even when you get on the bus.”

He added: “I am looking forward to seeing the swift card being used on the trains to and from Redditch which will be delivered as part of West Midlands Trains franchise commitments.”

Matt Lewis, head of Swift, added: "It was great to be in Redditch on Saturday to launch Swift and give away 100 Pay-as-you-go cards. 

"I was delighted by the excitement we generated with the people I spoke with, who are really keen to start enjoying the benefits that Swift brings."

Swift is run by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

Although not a full constituent member of the WMCA, Redditch has nonconstituent status.