Modern Railways Pictorial Magazine, August 1982 Issue

Probably the first recommendation of an independent management services consultant would be that the entire fares structure should be streamlined. There must of course be a full fare, even if only regarded as a base line or for passengers making a one-off journey at peak periods. There need to be season ticket rates so that when the long-suffering commuter parts with his money in advance for a service which he may or may not-get m practice he has the psychological benefit of knowing that his contract ticket includes a discount for bulk buying. A day return should be available for the casual weekend, or off-peak traveller, and tickets would have to be printed for children and railwaymen. Otherwise a single Railcard for people of all ages would be the only requirement. The annual card would cost £10-£20 and entitle the holder to unlimited rail travel except between the hours of 06.00- 09.30 and 16.00-18.30 Mondays to Fridays. Millions of pounds would be saved by streamlining administration and simplifying the system. Jimmy Saville could concentrate on the one special facility which does not discriminate against single people between the ages of 24 and 60. With the suggested Railcard railway enthusiasts would not need to travel 'three or four-up' by car simply because they cannot afford the rail fare. In the coming months BR will need to fill the majority of empty seats which can be found on all but the busiest routes. Something must be done — quickly.

In next month's MRP there will be features on Class 50 hauled Motorail trains, Merseyside emus, the Bedford-Bletchley line, Laira Open Day plus South Western Division Freight (carried forward from this month), Photoguide, Railscene and Works Roundup. MRP brings you the best railway photographs printed on quality paper, all for a modest 65p. Order your copy now.