Train tickets to soar by 4.1% next month

Published 6 Dec 2012 15:00 2 Comments

STRUGGLING commuters will be hit by a 4.1% increase in rail fares in less than a month.

South West Trains confirmed today that the cost of a single journey will rise by an average of 16p as of January 2, 2013.

Tim Shoveller, managing director of the South West Trains/Network Rail Alliance, said: "Railway funding can only come from the taxpayer or from the passenger. The government's policy remains that a bigger share must come from people who use the train."

He added: "We know that nobody likes paying more for their travel, especially to get to work. That's why we are working hard with the rest of the rail industry to make the system more cost-efficient and help take the pressure off future fare rises.

"At the same time, we are investing in our trains and stations to deliver a better railway for our customers."

For more information on 2013 fares, including how to get the best value deals, passengers can also visit www.atoc.org/2013fares/finding-the-best-fare.php

What do you think of the rise? Will a hike in prices affect your journey? Comment below or send us an email.