Rail Passenger Faces Legal Action Over £1.90 Ticket Error

Sam Williamson is threatened with prosecution by Northern Rail after unknowingly violating railcard restrictions on a morning train journey.

Sam Williamson, a 22-year-old consultant, purchased an 'Anytime Day Single' ticket with a railcard discount, unaware of time restrictions.
The Northern app did not clearly indicate that railcard discounts are invalid for tickets under £12 before 10am on weekdays, except in July and August.
Williamson offered to pay the fare difference or a penalty on the train, but was informed he could face prosecution instead.
Northern Rail has faced criticism for prosecuting passengers over minor fare discrepancies, with some facing fines exceeding £450.
The Department for Transport has urged Northern to clarify their ticketing policies as part of a broader effort to simplify rail travel.