Since Britain led the industrial revolution, trains have been symbolic of economic power, growth and freedom. The rail industry contributes over £36 billion to the UK economy and many people here in Watford use it to commute to or from work and for leisure.

But the poor old passenger, already hit this year with the biggest fare hike in more than a decade, is about to get a very rough deal from the train companies and the Conservative government.

Proposals coming down the Tory tracks will see ticket offices closed across the country. For us, this will leave only Watford Junction designated a “hub" - and what that downgrade means for staff at the station helping passengers is unclear.

Everyone will suffer if this gets the green light. Ticket vending machines don’t offer the range of tickets that staff in a ticket office do, so you won’t necessarily get the best-priced one.

The proposals have been condemned as they add barriers to disabled people using the rail network. Disability Rights UK, National Federation of the Blind UK, Transport for All, RNIB, RNID, Guide Dogs, Scope and the MS Society are all opposed to them.

The elderly are being side-lined and digitally excluded. Safety of passengers and particularly women travelling alone have been raised as concerns, with the prospect of unstaffed stations causing alarm.

The days of station master Mr Perks in 'The Railway Children' are long gone, but the same fate should not befall our ticket offices.

But, you can make a difference! The changes must not be approved, and public opinion could stop it. Search “ticket office closure consultation” and make your thoughts known. But you only have until 26th July.

  • Cllr Matt Turmaine is Labour's Parliamentary candidate for Watford