Brighton & Hove council’s tourism arm VisitBrighton has become a fully-appointed agent of rail company First Capital Connect, meaning it can sell all types of rail tickets to anywhere in the UK.

Previously, the Information Centre, next to the Royal Pavilion, was only able to sell Daysave tickets.

Now VisitBrighton staff have direct computer links to First Capital Connect, meaning they can sell special offers and up-to-the-minute bargains.

Tickets are the same credit card-size print-outs sold at stations.

This development enables the Tourism Office to offer much better customer service, arranging visitors’ transport tickets wherever they want to go – by local bus, National Express coach or train.

After establishing the service in Brighton, First Capital Connect are looking to roll the facility out to other key destinations.

Cabinet councillor for tourism David Smith said, “This makes our Information Centre a real one-stop shop for visitors who can get local information, accommodation and travel bookings all under one roof.

“We’re constantly trying to offer a better experience to visitors to boost the local economy and help our businesses weather the recession.”

VisitBrighton recently opened an additional information point in the Toy and Model Museum in Trafalgar Street near Brighton Station. It aims to tempt rail travellers towards the unique collection of independent traders in the North Laine area. The information point has leaflets and maps, plus staff available to offer basic advice.