Money alert: Railway fare rises

Rail users in England face an average 4.1 per cent rise in fares, including season tickets, next year, the government announced this week.

The increase is based on July's RPI, of 3.1 per cent, plus 1 per cent. It may not seem fair, especially as rail price increases have far outstripped wage growth in recent years, but rail users have been told they have to take it.

The Association of Train Operating Companies was quick to justify the increases, claiming the extra cash was needed to maintain investment to provide more trains, better stations and faster services.

But it's worth reminding yourself of ways to cut the cost of rail travel, mainly by booking ahead as far as you can and using a Railcard to get a hefty discount. Look out for special offers too.

Amex is currently running an offer with East Coast Travel, for instance.