Rail ticket prices are being slashed by the firm which provides Shropshire’s direct train service to London – as it today announced a new flat fare.

Wrexham & Shropshire, which stops at Shrewsbury and Telford on the way to London Marylebone, has announced it will cut the price of the fixed priced fare which will be valid all day, every day, by more than half.

It means people will be able to travel to London return from Shrewsbury for £40 at all times – including peak travel. The organisation has previously sold a standard anytime return ticket for £125.

A single to London from Shrewsbury was previously £85 and will now be £39.

Andy Hamilton, managing director of Wrexham & Shropshire, said: “Having listened to what our passengers tell us we are cutting out the confusion and the high costs that surround train travel.

“Passengers buying Wrexham & Shropshire tickets will get the same great deal whenever they travel.

“This is great news for people travelling from Shrewsbury and Telford, who will now be able to buy a return ticket on the day of travel for £40 to arrive in London before 9am.”

It has also introduced a “buy on board” policy, and will be encouraging people to buy tickets on board.

Mr Hamilton added: “Despite having some of the most convenient booking systems available, we wanted to go one better.

“You can’t get more convenient than buying the ticket on the train and we believe you shouldn’t be penalised for wanting to do so.”

Simon Pickering, from Passenger Focus, today welcomed the flat fares. He said: “Wrexham & Shropshire passengers will appreciate this move as it gives them a clear idea of how much their journey will cost from the outset and confidence they can use a different train if their plans change.”

From today passengers will be able to purchase the new Wrexham & Shropshire tickets for a fixed price, which are valid for travel from March 30 on any train, any day, any time from the website www.wrexhamandshropshire.co.uk

By John Kirk