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New warning for Metrolink fare dodgers

11/08/2008

A new campaign to target people who avoid buying tickets on Metrolink has been launched today.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) and tram operator Stagecoach are working together to reduce fare evasions.

Posters are being put up at stops and on trams alerting passengers to the possibility of a £80 fine if they travel without a ticket.

Inspectors are targeting stops across the city-region to check whether people are heeding the warnings.

People who do not pay the fine within 21 days could face a penalty of over £1,000 or three months in prison.

Philip Purdy, GMPTE's Metrolink director, acknowledges that the "overwhelming majority" of passengers buy a ticket before boarding a tram.

"This campaign will target those people who think they can get away with using the trams for free," he stated.

Last week it was reported that crime and antisocial behaviour on public transport in the city-region has fallen by 23 per cent in the past year.