ANDOVER is one of one of only two train stations in the country to make parking for passengers easier by using their mobile phones.

From Friday passengers at Andover and Fleet were able to pay for parking by making two short phone calls - one to activate and the other to terminate their parking session.

The initiative came after South West Trains teamed up with Parkmobile to save passengers having to search for coins and pay and display machines.

Registration is easy and can be done at participating South West Trains' stations, on Parkmobile's website or via a helpdesk number.

Membership cards simply need to be displayed on the car windscreen to allow parking attendants to electronically check their validity.

Stations will also issue the Parkmobile cards as season tickets. These tickets will always remain active, provided payments are made in time. Internet and telephone-based payment methods will also be made available to further simplify the renewal process.

SWT managing director Andrew Haines said: "South West Trains has always looked for innovative ways in which to increase passenger satisfaction.

"Together with Parkmobile we believe this scheme will bring real benefits for both season ticket holders and day parkers."

After Andover and Fleet, more stations will follow.