Student fined for sitting in incorrect first class train seat on way to London, charged £129.50.

Theo Griffiths, an 18-year-old student from Boston, Lincolnshire, had an unfortunate experience on his train journey to London. He had decided to take the train instead of driving because the distance was too long to drive and he wanted to be productive during the journey. However, when he boarded the Thameslink train, he found it to be very full and couldn't find a seat. Remembering seeing messages stating that he could use the first-class seating as an alternative, Theo decided to sit there. Little did he know that this decision would result in a whopping fine of £129.50.

Theo was shocked and frustrated by the fine, especially since he had seen others also getting fined for sitting in the wrong section. He described the guard as rude and hostile, and even when he asked about appealing the fine, the guard couldn't give a clear answer. Theo was disappointed that he had to pay such a disproportionate amount for simply sitting in a seat that he thought was available for use.

Thameslink's website states that the first-class seating at the back of their trains is "always declassified," but this rule doesn't apply to the front of the train. This fact was not clearly stated, causing confusion for passengers like Theo. His post on social media about the incident gained a lot of attention and support, with many people also complaining about the complex and unclear rules.

The Department of Transport was approached for comment, but they stated that it was a matter for the train operator. This incident is not an isolated one, as just a few weeks prior, another passenger, graduate Sam Williamson, was threatened with legal action for buying the wrong ticket and saving a mere £1.90. Following media coverage, the rail provider backed down, but Sam called for simplification of ticket fares for the convenience of all passengers.

Theo and Sam's experiences highlight the need for clearer and simpler rules for train travel. It's not fair for passengers to be fined such high amounts for simple mistakes, especially when the rules are not easily accessible or understandable. Let's hope that rail companies take note and make improvements for the benefit of all passengers.

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