More Train, Less Strain campaign strikes Bradford on Avon

5.53.00pm GMT Mon 22nd Jan 2007

Cllr Duncan Hames distributing 'Fare Strike' cards to passengers

It was an early start today for railway protesters in Bradford on Avon who were part of the Fare Strike organiser by the passenger campaign group: More Trains, Less Strain.

From shortly after 6.30am passengers travelling to Bath or Bristol were being offered specially printed 'Fare Strike' cards and asked to present them to station staff in place of a ticket for this morning's journey. This exceptional Fare Strike is part of a campaign to put pressure on First Great Western and the Department of Transport to get more carriages on the local routes of the new rail franchise which has failed to cope with passenger demand since it started last month.

Local councillor, Duncan Hames, who took the first shift before travelling himself said after the protest:

"There has been overwhelming support this morning from passengers who have put up with enough in recent weeks - and we looked likely to run out of the Fare Strike 'tickets' earlier than planned. The station staff had their job to do, but understand the concerns passengers have and remained friendly as ever: ensuring that this peaceful protest passed without confrontation. At Bristol Temple Meads the ticket barrier was in operation, but passengers presenting the Fare Strike card were directed through the adjacent gate without challenge."

Cllr Duncan Hames checked that passengers revolting that morning had no trouble leaving the station at Bristol

"I expect the Fare Strike may prove to be a one-off, but it has proved hugely successful in attracting national media attention to the plight of local commuters, and we will endeavour to keep up the pressure on both First and the Department of Transport with further events until the overcrowding and shortage of carriages is resolved."

Related Links:

[Save the Train petition to the Prime Minister ]

[The More Train Less Strain passenger campaign ]