West Midlands Railway is offering free travel on the Stourbridge Shuttle this week to anyone named Jude in celebration of England’s World Cup quarter-final victory over Norway.

The special offer pays tribute to England midfielder Jude Bellingham, who grew up in the Stourbridge area and began his football journey with Stourbridge Juniors.

Until Sunday 19 July, passengers with the forename Jude can travel free of charge between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town stations by showing valid identification. The offer also applies to people named Judah, Julian, Judy, Judith or Julie who are commonly known as Jude.

Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director at WMR, said the railway wanted to recognise Bellingham’s achievements and celebrate his local roots as England prepares for its World Cup semi-final against Argentina.

Bellingham, who grew up in nearby Hagley, came through Birmingham City’s academy before becoming the club’s youngest-ever first-team player at just 16. He now plays for Real Madrid and has earned more than 50 caps for England.

The Stourbridge Shuttle, known locally as the Town Car, has operated since 2009 and runs along one of Europe’s shortest branch railway lines, covering just 0.8 miles between the two stations.