A Manchester to Andover ticket routed +via London is valid on all permitted routes:
- between Manchester and London; this includes Manchester - Birmingham - Oxford - Reading - London Paddington [note: AM time restrictions apply]
- between London and Andover; this includes London Paddington - Reading - Basingstoke - Andover [no time restrictions apply due to Network Area Rule]
It is permissible to avoid the double-back between Reading & London Paddington afforded by the validity described above, for example by remaining on a CrossCountry train at Reading.
Additionally, a Manchester to Andover ticket routed +via London is valid on all permitted routes between Manchester & Andover that avoid London, as the fare paid is higher than the appropriate Manchester to Andover ticket routed Not via London. The Guard can either accept the ticket as it is a higher fare, or if they wish, they can issue a change of route excess fare for a value of £0.
Unfortunately XC do employ some staff who are very unknowledgeable; their prosecutions department behaves in a disgraceful way at times. I've seen this sort of behaviour before (including prosecuting someone for not doubling-back to London). They are bullies, they are cowards, and they are very
very wrong.
There are three possible ways to resolve this:
- I have a robust discussion with XC on your behalf
- I ask a contact I have at XC to resolve it
- We appoint a solicitor to represent you in court; if what you say is true, you will win the case.
If I can find a suitable solicitor, I will suggest we go for option 3.
If not, I am prepared to go down the routes of options 1 or 2, but I am unhappy that this gets XC off the hook. I'd like to see them defeated in court.
I do hate calling TOCs when I know I am right and they are wrong; they try to argue with me and tell me I am wrong, and it is a most frustrating experience. I've recently done battle with several and I find it very draining. Some of them behave in a despicable manner. I don't want any money for it but it irks me that I spend so much time dealing with rogue TOCs for no reward and it is not good for my health. Sadly Anthony Smith, CEO of Transport Focus - who is paid a
huge amount of money to supposedly represent our interests (yeah, we wish!) - doesn't seem to give a damn, but that's for another thread.
Feel free to send me a message (via 'conversation') with your mobile number and I will call you tomorrow morning if you like.