Bus and rail passengers across the county could use a pay-as-you-go smartcard for their journeys under a scheme to develop a Kent version of London's Oyster card.

County transport chiefs are to trial a scheme in Maidstone that will allow bus users on services operated by Arriva to pay for their tickets in advance by storing up credits on the card.

If successful, the pilot scheme in Maidstone - expected to start early next year - will be extended to incorporate bus services run by other operators and then go county-wide.

Medway is also expected to be included if the trial system is a success.

Kent County Council said that ultimately the card will also allow holders to store credit allowing them to pay for tickets to use on Southeastern rail services.

Transport bosses said those who use the card would be able to use it on services run by different operators, avoiding the need for separate tickets.

It will also allow commuters to pay for weekly and monthly tickets in advance and buy credits online or using a mobile phone.

A report to county councillors this week states many bus companies have already expressed support for the idea.

Initial costs for developing the card are about £60,000, with the funding split between KCC and Medway Council.