I fully agree with the comments of Stuart Garforth, Guiseley, about this government and the rail delivery group proposals to close ticket offices at railway stations, The Yorkshire Post, December 16, 2022.

With there being so many types of tickets available to travel, which must run into a few thousand (if not more) for passengers to purchase to go from where they live, either to work, see family and friends, or just to enjoy the beauty of the countryside and coast in Britain.

Because let's face it, especially here in Yorkshire closely followed by Scotland and Lancashire, we like a bargain and to find out that we have overpaid for our rail ticket is a crime!

In order to get the best price they need some guidance from someone who is knowledgeable of what is available and to offer the best available prices, to assist in 'navigating the minefield' of what is available, especially now with the cost of living which is increasing each month, the majority of those who have to travel will need to keep a closer eye on travelling cost.

Many travellers like to speak to someone face to face to find out what options there are on methods of travel by train, but will be denied this.

Why because it saves money for the government, and operating costs of rail companies? These companies can make more profits for their shareholders.

There are many in society, especially the elderly, and those with learning difficulties who will find it difficult to use ticket machines to purchase the right ticket.

In fact it is fair to say that privatisation of the railways has made it so complicated to buy a ticket that you need a degree in economics to get the right ticket at the right price.

When the ticket offices are closed and the space rented out to retailers, can the rail operating companies guarantee that ticket machines will operate all of the time.

We all know the answer is no.

Staff on stations who issue tickets also give advice and explain why there are delays and make the experience of travelling by rail more enjoyable.

And to read that the government will not consult with rail travellers is simply appalling.

What happened to democracy and why is the taxpayer paying for a senior cabinet minister and Secretary of State for Transport, Mark Harper, Minister for Rail, Kevin Foster, and senior civil servant who will not engage in communicating with the general public and the rail unions, about why they are proposing to close rail ticket offices?

Perhaps this is one of the reasons why the government has put off the decision to launch the new organisation for national railways?

Closing ticket offices at railway stations is the wrong move - Yorkshire Post Letters