Rowen encourages rail passengers to check for cheaper journeys

12.00.00am GMT Mon 4th Jan 2010

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen is urging local residents to make sure they are getting the best fares possible when booking their train tickets.

Mr Rowen has teamed up with The Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) in their campaign to promote the best value train fares for passengers after it was revealed that thousands of passengers are missing on cheaper train journeys each month.

Back in November, ATOC launched their new website www.bestvaluefares.co.uk which shows passengers how they can save money on train fares by booking in advance, taking advantage of special deals or being flexible when they travel.

The website was launched as many train companies announced ticket price increases 2010.

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen said: "Many residents in Rochdale have contacted me about train fares so I know this is an important issue. Passenger rail provides huge benefits for Britain. Over 1.27bn journeys are made each year, up by over 59% since 1996, and over 64% of companies use rail which is helping to keep British businesses moving during the recession."

Mr Rowen added: "Many train companies, in my few, have unfairly penalized passengers this year by increasing their fares therefore the service that www.bestvaluefares.co.uk provides is an essential one that can save passengers a significant amount of money."

Andy Taylor, spokesperson for ATOC said: "I would like to Paul Rowen for getting on board with our campaign to provide cheaper fares for passengers. Cheaper train travel provides many with real social benefits especially the young, older and disabled passengers. Our website provides the most up to date offers and helps passengers travel for less."