Is it possible to use Priv boxes and excess to first class

[gray1404]

Friend of mine who is protected (ex BR) status and has PRIV with boxes for standard class wants to know if he can date a box then pay the difference between a standard class ticket (75% off) and a first class ticket (75% off) I.e. An excess.

We want to do a trip up to Scotland (most likely from Preston) to either Glasgow or Edinburgh. I have a complementary first class return on VTWC (booked train only). The solution sounds like I just sit in standard with him. But we were trying to think of work around.

I hold a disabled railcard too which could give a discount on an advance if we booked a first advance. This is a return journey btw. Out one day back a few days later. Not sure of days yet but I'm thinking weekdays.

 

[Haywain]

No. Holders of Standard Class boxes must pay the full public rate for travel in first class, unless weekend first is available.

 

[gray1404]

So best option then is either I sit I standard with him or we use comp return in 1st plus railcard discounted advance. Thanks

 

[Rover]

I could understand in BR days that those with 1st class privs wanting to keep their differentials with the 2nd/standard class privs but these days it doesn't appear to make much sense, surely an upgrade to 1st is extra revenue for the railway?

 

[boxy321]

I'm 99% sure the train manager (on VTWC) would allow your friend to pay for an upgrade. The amount would be a walk up price so eye watering I expect though.

 

[gray1404]

So best option then is either I sit I standard with him or we use comp return in 1st plus railcard discounted advance. Thanks

I think this is the cheapest way of doing it.