I am a 20 year old full time student.
About 5 months ago , I traveled from the Victoria to Brighton.
Where i got off and tried to tap out using my oyster which did not work as i wasn't in London , I didn't know this at the time so I asked one of the train advisers near the barrier who told me i had to pay even if I didn't go outside. I had no money at the time and was awaiting student finance. I got 2 letters sent to my house saying to pay 80 and 90 pounds respectively, which I couldn't until several months later after I had got my student finance, at that point I went on the penalty fare website and my payment wasn't accepted, I then phoned and sent several emails to GTR who suggested I send an email to the penalty fare website (IRCAS), IRCAS then sent me an automated number, which has no information about payment. i then emailed them about this, IRCAS then sent the same number again in another email.
I received a Court summon and I do not want a criminal record as it would ruin my future Job prospect.
What is the best course of action for me. Any help is welcome. I am willing to pay any amount, i can work on the weekends to save money.
About 5 months ago , I traveled from the Victoria to Brighton.
Where i got off and tried to tap out using my oyster which did not work as i wasn't in London , I didn't know this at the time so I asked one of the train advisers near the barrier who told me i had to pay even if I didn't go outside. I had no money at the time and was awaiting student finance. I got 2 letters sent to my house saying to pay 80 and 90 pounds respectively, which I couldn't until several months later after I had got my student finance, at that point I went on the penalty fare website and my payment wasn't accepted, I then phoned and sent several emails to GTR who suggested I send an email to the penalty fare website (IRCAS), IRCAS then sent me an automated number, which has no information about payment. i then emailed them about this, IRCAS then sent the same number again in another email.
I received a Court summon and I do not want a criminal record as it would ruin my future Job prospect.
What is the best course of action for me. Any help is welcome. I am willing to pay any amount, i can work on the weekends to save money.