Trains to cost more cash

From January a season ticket to London will cost £94.50 per week or £3,780 per year from Sandy, £91 per week or £3,640 from Biggleswade or £83.50 per week or £3,340 per year from Arlesey.

David Mapp, commercial director at the association of train operating companies, said: “We know that these are difficult financial times for many people.

“The Government has decided that many fares need to rise above inflation for the next three years to help pay for more trains, better stations and faster services.

“Increasing the money raised from fares will mean that taxpayers contribute less to the running of the railways whilst ensuring that vital investment can continue. A more efficient railway will help to limit fare rises in the future and offer better long-term value for money for the taxpayer.”

On average 48p per pound goes to Network Rail and other infrastructure costs, 17p is spent on staff, 11p on leasing trains, 4p on fuel, 3p goes to the train company and 17p is spent on miscellaneous costs.