Rail firms hike prices after fares shake-up

Rail passengers are paying up to three times more for tickets under the latest shake-up of fares.

A new system was introduced last month to simplify pricing - but train companies have been accused of using this as an opportunity to increase fares.

In one of the worst examples, peak early-morning fares on the Virgin Trains service from North Wales to London Euston have tripled. A £69.40 return now costs £213. And passengers travelling on National Express between the capital and Essex between 4.30pm and 6.30pm on weekdays are being forced to buy a full-price return ticket instead of a one-day travelcard - which costs 63 per cent more.

Others who have been hard hit include those travelling on Cross Country between Nottingham and Birmingham, who have seen their return fares more than double.

Watchdogs have accused operators of raising fares through the back door.

Passenger Focus condemned the hikes, as they say customers already have to put up with poor services.

Spokesman Anthony Smith said: "Yet again train companies are turning the screw on passengers."

The industry claims the changes, which are being introduced gradually throughout the year, have made fares less confusing for travellers, who previously faced a baffling array of ticket prices.

Now, instead of more than 10 categories, there are just three - Advance, Off-Peak and Anytime.

George Muir, of the Association of Train Operating Companies, insists the rises were necessary. He said: "The revenue helps pay for investment that benefits passengers.

Billions are now being spent to improve the railways."

HOW THE 'SIMPLER' TICKETS COST MORE

Holyhead to Euston Ticket: Single, before 9.30am on weekdays Operator: Virgin WAS £69.40 NOW £213 Increase: 228%

Nottingham to Birmingham Ticket: Open return Operator: Cross Country Trains WAS £11.90 NOW £23.50 Increase: 116%

Notts to Cardiff Ticket: Standard open return Operator: Cross Country Trains WAS £53.70 NOW £72 Increase: 34%

Hayes, Kent, to London Charing X Ticket: Weekly Operator: Southeastern Trains WAS £24.80 NOW £28.50 Increase: 14.5%

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