A PETITION has been launched to save a Cotswold town’s railway station ticket office from closure.

All 980 staffed ticket offices in England were put at risk of closure after changes were announced to the Government’s guidance relating to ticket office opening hours.

A consultation on the potential closures was extended last week until September 1 after many people raised concerns.

And now Liberal Democrat councillors in the North Cotswolds have added their support to save the ticket office in Moreton-in-Marsh and have launched a petition.

County councillor Paul Hodgkinson (LD, Bourton-on-the-Water and Northleach) believes that ticket offices provide a vital service to residents.

He says that having a clearly sign-posted place in the station for people with ticket enquiries provides certainty and confidence for customers who may struggle to otherwise locate station staff.

“Not all residents are able to use station ticket machines, or have the means to book a ticket in advance.

“Complicated journeys involving connections are likely to require human assistance to ensure customers purchase the most appropriate and cheapest tickets, and do not incur penalties from mis-booked tickets.

“Passengers already face crippling price rises, late trains and cancelled services. Now Government funding cuts mean Moreton-in-Marsh ticket office is set to close.

“I know many people buy their tickets online these days, but I also know a lot of people rely on being able to speak to someone when at the ticket office.

“Elderly and disabled people in particular will be left in the lurch if the ticket office closes.

“No one is there to fix a problem or help them get the right ticket. Just another faceless screen.

“That’s why I’m campaigning with Cllr Angus Jenkinson, who represents Moreton East on Cotswold District Council to save our local ticket office.

“It is vital that our local stations are staffed from first to last trains to ensure that passengers can get assistance, help and advice.”