A YORK transport watchdog said today was a "sad day" for rail passengers following news of future fare rises.
Ernie Preston, secretary of the York-based North-East Rail Passenger Committee, said an announcement by the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) that fares could rise by one per cent above inflation would hinder the good work of the railways to reduce road traffic.
The announcement follows a year-long review of rail fares, aiming to redress the balance between fare payers and tax payers.
Mr Preston said: "It's a very sad day for rail passengers in that we're meant to be encouraging people to get out of their cars and start using the railways. We have got to have reliable, affordable, accessible rail travel."
GNER spokesman David Mallender said that the price increase would mainly affect season tickets and saver fares, and would not come into force until next year.
Updated: 10:46 Friday, June 20, 2003
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