SOUTH Essex customers can now officially use e-tickets on trains across the c2c network, it has been announced.

This development enables passengers to purchase and display rail tickets directly from a mobile phone or other smart device.

Once at the station, commuters can simply tap their phone to scan the ticket and then board the train.

During a testing phase in December, sales of more than 30,000 tickets were recorded.

Eleni Jordan, c2c’s commercial director, said: “Following months of work and rigorous testing, and a successful trial period during December, I am delighted to announce that we are now retailing e-tickets across our network.

“This is an exciting digital development for our customers, providing them with even greater choice and flexibility when planning and paying for their trips with c2c.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to making c2c a more attractive and accessible railway, the introduction of e-tickets will make buying and presenting tickets quicker and easier for our customers than ever before.

“We already offer a wide range of ticketing and payment options to best suit customers’ needs, and we are working hard to ensure that everyone can access the correct tickets and best value fares for their journey.”

The convenience and immediate availability of e-tickets suggest they will be popular among customers.

In addition to smart cards and traditional payment and collection methods at ticket vending machines and offices, c2c’s customers can now opt to receive an e-ticket straight to their phone or email.

E-ticket versions are currently available for peak and off-peak singles and returns; c2c online advance off-peak returns (with a 40 per cent discount when purchased three or more days prior to travel), railcard discounts and for buying tickets on behalf of other travellers.

Currently, e-tickets aren’t available for weekly, monthly, annual and flexi-season tickets.

Additionally, travelcards are not supported as e-tickets or where travel is required on TfL London Underground services.

The c2c network operates trains between Fenchurch Street and Shoebury,.