MP Gareth Johnson has welcomed news rail passengers can use their oyster cards to and from Dartford station later this year.

The Conservative says Southeastern has confirmed the London ticketing system should be in place at the town's station by the end of September.

He said: "I am pleased there is now confirmation from Southeastern that passengers will be able to use their Oyster Cards to Dartford train station.

"As a direct result of Government action we have been informed that it is set to be introduced and should be in place by the end of September 2015.

"Myself and others have sought the introduction of the oyster card for Dartford as it has always been an anomaly that people in Dartford could use the oyster card on some buses in the town but not on the train.

"This decision should provide a more seamless ticketing system for commuters in to London and one which I know many commuters have been seeking for a long time.

“I will be making representations to the Department of Transport regarding the introduction of future smart card ticketing in Dartford which I hope will complement the Oyster Card system.

"For now the introduction of the Oyster Card in Dartford should make life easier for thousands of commuters who choose to use it."