Rail journeys up by 15 million for first 3 months of 2011

Editor's note: I'm going to try not to allow my personal feelings on rail travel to influence this article in anyway, shape of form.

Last week, the Association of Train Operating Companies released journey figures showing that for the first 3 months of 2011, there were 15 million extra rail journeys taken compared with the same period last year.

They're very excited claiming that the rise in passenger numbers is down to the rising cost of fuel at the forecourts. The British public is being forced to look at alternatives to the car.

The train operators also point out that petrol prices have risen at around twice the rate of rail fares in the last 12 months.

Yes, well done rail companies but I'm sure you'd attract a lot more passengers with a simpler, cheaper ticket system and re-opening old lines that would provide a useful commuter link - especially as many rural bus routes seem to be under threat from closure due to funding withdrawal.

photo credit: brent royal-gordon