Just an update. I'd got the train company wrong. It was Transpennine Express rather than Northern rail. I hadn't heard anything at all and was worried sick so I eventually called Northern Rail to see if they had anything on file, which they obviously didn't. The lady at the other end was surprisingly pleasant and quite sympathetic and advised me to send in a letter with as much detail as possible. I'd already had a quick word with a solicitor who'd advised me to send in a letter of apology but not to admit to anything directly but I thought I should really just explain what had happened and try to convey that it was really not my intention to leave them unpaid. However, the other day I received a letter from Transpennine which didn't even ask for an explanation of the situation, it was just asking for payment of £78.50 for costs. I feel very, very lucky. I think Northern Rail prosecutions dept are actually quite decent from having spoken to themand will genuinely take into account your situation. I suspect the best course of action would be to send a genuine explanation followed up by a very polite phone call. I'm just so glad it's been resolved. I really feel for all the decent people out there who've made one mistake and are now facing a possible criminal conviction.

Thankful for your help, much appreciated. I've drafted a letter ready to reply. I can't express how idiotic I feel, but what's done is done. Many thanks.

No, there was no ticket machine at the station and the train was completely full of standing passengers. No member of staff came round selling tickets (which they usually do). I do understand it is the passenger's responsibility to seek out the ticket sales person.

No, there was no ticket machine at the station and the train was completely full of standing passengers. No member of staff came round selling tickets (which they usually do). I do understand it is the passenger's responsibility to seek out the ticket sales person.

I would very much appreciate help on this matter. I boarded the train at my usual station at which the ticket office is closed for refurbishment. There was no opportunity to buy a ticket on board but staff were selling tickets at the barrier when I arrived at my destination. I stupidly bought a ticket from the station nearest my destination rather than from the station I had travelled from as I had a company cheque in my bag to purchase an annual ticket but was waiting for a letter of consent to use the cheque from my employer which they would be issuing later in the day. I did not want to duplicate rail fare for that day. On completing the purchase I was marched to a RPO and, again stupidly, gave a false name and address instead of explaining the situation. This was out of sheer panic and embarrassment. When I realised the RPO was going to check the details I gave the correct ones. I'm now waiting for a letter or summons. I'm absolutely devastated and could kick myself for being so stupid. I am willing to pay any amount of fine but need to avoid a criminal conviction as this will mean losing my job and house and being unable to visit close relatives in Australia. Please help.

Hi, how did you get on? I'm currently in a similar situation and am so worried.

Hi, I've just been reading a thread in which you kindly forwarded template letters for the above. I was wondering if you still had copies and whether you would possibly consider forwarding them to me? I fully understand if this is not possible. I've found myself in a similar situation with northern rail and would be devastated if I received a criminal conviction. Many thanks.