Train operator started the "low-key" project in March as part of a wider e-ticketing scheme

Virgin Trains has started the second part of its e-ticketing project ­ mobile phone tickets.

From March, the train operator has carried out trials of the technology on eight trains on the London to Manchester route.

The project follows the print-at-home tickets scheme, which was introduced in August 2007 and has been used by more than 60,000 passengers. By comparison, Virgin sold just over 200 tickets via mobile phones during a three-week period.

“It has been a slow, but steady start,” said Virgin Trains distribution manager Andy Donelan.

Print-at-home tickets will be fully implemented by September, followed by mobile ticketing in summer 2009.