SCOTRAIL faced a backlash last night over responses by the firm’s Twitter account to social media users.
In a series of replies, one of the staff operating the account – named “MF” – issued snappy answers to those with questions.
Referring to a campaign to ensure tickets are bought before boarding, Gordon Stewart asked: “What if you catch the train with seconds to spare? Are we getting the jail even though buying a ticket on the train going to a barrier station?”
❓ Does your station have a ticket machine or a ticket office? Buy Before You Board. Travelling without buying a ticket is fare evasion. We’re clamping down. pic.twitter.com/kAt9ieDCEh
— ScotRail (@ScotRail) November 18, 2019
ScotRail replied: “We would advise to arrive at the station with plenty of time before hand. Thanks, ^MF”
Scott Mackenzie weighed in, telling ScotRail: “This is an awful response. Some people need to catch a bus to the station which they have no control over and can mean getting there two minutes before train is due.”
Is it a major issue buying from the ticket machine or booking offices before getting on the train, Fraser? ^CT
— ScotRail (@ScotRail) November 18, 2019
Another user, Paul Moran, posted a picture of a folded-up seat and asked: “Why offer first-class tickets for trains that only have two carriages and no seats. Having to sit on one of these as well. Edinburgh to Perth.”
ScotRail hit back: “That is a seat, Paul. ^MF”
Moran replied: “That’s not the point nor funny. I’m a visitor to your country and went to buy a ticket. £16 single or £23 first class. Decided to treat myself.
I'm not going to discuss "what if's" with you, Josh. If your station has ticket facilities then we would recommend to buy before you board, if you're unable to buy one then discuss this with the conductor. ^MF
— ScotRail (@ScotRail) November 18, 2019
"Train has no first-class section or seats. So basically ripped off £7. Why sell 1st class tickets for a train that has none.”
Only then did ScotRail offer advice on refunds.
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