Simpler system for train tickets

A new rail ticketing system designed to make it simple for travellers to understand the types of ticket on offer is due to come into force from May.

The new system, brought in by the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), will feature only three ticket options: Advance, Off-peak and Anytime.

The move follows research by passenger group Passenger Focus, which found that fewer than half of passengers believe they understood the current system or that they could find their way through the maze to get the cheapest fares.

"This is the biggest shake-up in the fares and ticketing system for many years and we want passengers to take advantage of it and also encourage more people to take the train," said David Mapp, ATOC's commercial director.

The new system for advance tickets will come into force on 18 May while the Anytime and Off-peak tickets will go live on 7 September.