Frome rail users warned fares up today by highest rise for nine years

The increase 3.8%, is below the current retail price inflation of 7.1%. The government will not increase fares by the retail price index (RPI) rate plus 1%, as it did in 2021.

Until the pandemic, fares were raised in January each year by a formula based on the RPI rate of the previous July, 6 months beforehand. In 2022, the increase will take place in March, giving passengers more time to purchase cheaper flexible and season tickets at the existing rate.

To further support those returning to the railways, the Book with Confidence scheme has been extended, meaning that until 31 March 2022, passengers can change their travel plans up until the evening before departure without being charged a fee, or cancel their trains completely and receive refunds in the form of rail vouchers.

The Labour Party has calculated the rise leaves the average commuter paying £3,263 for their season ticket, 49% more than in 2010.