Let us know what happens iambilly. I long to see the word "SETTLED" after the post title. At least at the end of all this, you've learned a valuable lesson- don't plead guilty unless you're willing to accept what goes along with it! Don't you watch telly??!

Oh yes, is it that obvious?! It's a pretty similar story so I didn't bother to start a new thread. Was just interested to see outcomes. With that in mind I will start a new thread at some point, but I'm currently waiting for SWT's response to my grovelling letter of apology, so will need advice if they still want to proceed to court! Thank you all for support though!

Hello I'm interested to know what happened with your case. Please update us.

Hi could you please update us on your case. What happened??

Hi,

 

Just posting to inform you that the situation has been closed. I sent London Midland a letter apologising profusely and explaining the incident. London Midland were happy to settle for a £20 fine.

 

Dan

Thanks for letting us know. I'm happy for you!

Actually I saw a machine eat someone's ticket yesterday. The staff had to pick it out with their fingers.

I would try to forget about it now. Wait for the letter (it could be MONTHS!) then throw yourself down on their mercy, saying you are sorry and you will never do it again. And again wait. Worrying and trying to second guess them wont help. You will be fine! Chin up!

How did you get on with your letter? Heard anything back?

Update: I contacted the Prosecution department. They - understandably - challenged me, sternly warned me about future travel arrangements by train, but finally offered a non-negotiable settlement. I quickly jumped at the opportunity and was told that the case will be dropped, after relieving me of an certain noticeable amount from my visa debit card.

 

I want to say that I have much appreciated your advice and direction and have taken some lessons away with me. Three, which stand out are:

...Lesson one: buy the valid ticket (with appropriate dates, times, carriage) before travel.... or obtain permission (obtaining proof, such as an upgrade ticket, in the meantime) from the correct 'authorised person';

...Lesson two: Know your rights and obligations; and

...Lesson three: don't ask too many questions

 

Kind regards to all

Do you mind if I ask how much they charged? And how did you contact them, via telephone? I am in a very similar situation (train crowded, first class empty, but not allowed to upgrade) and would like to settle out of court, and offer them payment. In the past people have paid £150-200.