Video: Fed-up rail users call for action on stations and fares

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A Yorkshire Post survey of passengers at six major stations in the region found problems with waiting areas, bins, toilets, security, parking and smoking areas.

Rail users also voiced strong criticism of last week's hike in ticket prices at a time when overcrowding and delays have become increasingly common.

Figures for November to December 2010 saw average punctuality drop from 89.4 to 81.7 per cent on the 2009 period as trains battled through the winter weather.

Season ticket prices rose by 5.8 per cent on average last Sunday, with some up by as much as 12.8 per cent.

Ashwin Kumar, rail director of pressure group Passenger Focus, said: "Latest fare rises put the spotlight on industry performance. For such prices passengers will rightfully expect punctual, clean trains with a reasonable chance of getting a seat.

"Our research shows that less than half of passengers are satisfied with value for money and if this is going to be tackled, money must go into relieving overcrowding and improving information at times of delay."

The Yorkshire Post visited stations in Leeds, York, Hull, Bradford, Skipton and Sheffield.