Fines increase for East Midlands Railway users without valid tickets
Penalty increases are coming into effect
From Monday 23 January, customers who travel without a valid ticket will be issued with a ÂŁ100 fine on top of the price of a single ticket.
The rise from the current level of ÂŁ20 is being brought in by the Department for Transport to affect users elsewhere in the country as well.
Neil Grabham, Customer Services Director at East Midlands Railway, said: "The vast majority of our customers always buy a ticket, and they understand that for the railway to successfully operate, improve, and secure investment, fares need to be paid for.
"Sadly though, there are a minority of determined people who always look to evade paying or look for ways to work the system.
"Following direction from the Department for Transport and in line with other train operators, EMR will be increasing Penalty Fares. By doing so, we hope to provide a proper deterrent to those intent on travelling without a ticket.’’
It's the first penalty fare increase since 2005 and the operator say the fine is reduced to ÂŁ50 if paid before 21 days.
They go on to add...
"A Penalty Fare may be charged if the customer:
- Travels without a valid ticket
- Is unable to produce the appropriate Railcard
- Travels in First Class accommodation with a Standard ticket
- Are 16 or over travelling on a child rate ticket
- Travels beyond the destination of the ticket
"Customers should buy their ticket from the ticket office, a ticket machine, or online. If they are using pay as you go or a smartcard ticket, they should ensure they touch in to start their journey as required.
"If the ticket office is closed, customers will be able to buy at a ticket machine or online before they board a train."