Public transport operators have warned fare dodgers of a major crackdown on ticket fraud.

The move follows checks earlier this year on buses, trains and the subway which caught people using fraudulent ZoneCards and misusing tickets.

A number of phony ZoneCards in use were immediately withdrawn.

Now, in a collaborative initiative, key operators are warning that British Transport Police will take action against anyone abusing the system.

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) says customers should always be aware of what zones are covered by their cards.

Anyone who is unsure of what zones they can travel in should contact SPT to ensure that they hold the correct ticket for their journey.

Dan Schoenhofen, chair of the ZoneCard Forum, which represents all operators in the ticketing arrangement, said: “Misuse of ZoneCards is a serious matter that costs public transport operators money which could otherwise be invested in improving services for all.

"We work closely with British Transport Police and will take action against anyone abusing the system.

"Ticket checks like this can be carried out at any time. It really isn’t worth the risk of getting caught.

"Whilst it is always pleasing to see positive results in the form of fraudulent cards being withdrawn, what is most heartening is that the vast majority of customers are enjoying the benefits of their ZoneCard and public transport in general.”

Passengers with questions regarding their ZoneCards and zones covered should contact SPT on 0141 333 3758 (Mon – Fri 9am to 4pm) or email: zonecard@spt.co.uk