Anger at yet another rail fare increase

Commuters from Rochdale faced a New Year surprise as Northern Rail hiked up their prices for the SECOND time in just four months. The increase, higher than the current rate of inflation will see hard pressed commuters hit in their pockets yet again. This means that there has been a TWENTY per cent increase in just a few short months. The fare rise will see fares increasing by 10 per cent from this month - with off-peak returns to Manchester rising by another 50p.

Councillor Andy Kelly, local Rochdale Lib Dem Leader, said: "To increase prices once is an inconvenience for locals - twice and it smacks of greediness and a lack of planning by Northern Rail. At a time when people are being encouraged to travel by public transport, this additional increase will force commuters back into their cars. Northern Rail knew fine well months in advance that their unregulated fares (those which the Government has no control) would rise. To put fares up again creates uncertainty and hardship for commuters. I have a problem with the way that Northern Rail have handled this too. They barely advertised the increase, with many commuters only finding out when purchasing their tickets. I think their loyal passengers deserve better."

Off-peak returns in Rochdale are now £1 dearer in just four months.