Woman who failed to download train map in Manchester Piccadilly will be fined

Harriet Thompson, 21, from Guilder Lane, boarded Northern Trains at Mauldeth Road in south Manchester on Monday, February 19, 2024, for the eight-minute journey.

When she arrived at Manchester Piccadilly she showed staff her advance single ticket – but was unable to download the 16-25 rail card which had given her a discount.

Staff reported the incident and court documents show she did not respond to a letter or ticket notice before the matter was brought to court.

Manchester Magistrates Court heard: “Upon request the defendant was unable to produce the attached railcard as she was unable to download it. Her details were obtained and she was told the facts would be reported.

“Following the incident, a letter was sent to the defendant seeking an explanation. Since there was no response, a fine notice was sent. However, this remains unpaid.”

Thompson was found guilty of failing to ride the train without paying the fare on Friday, October 4th.

She was fined £220 and ordered to pay £150 in court costs and an £88 victim services surcharge, plus £3.70 compensation to Northern Trains – the value of the fare she “avoided”. .

Thompson has until November 8 to pay her £461 court bill.