Until very recently I used to be able to get a good deal on the rail fares from Chester-le-Street to York, £6.50 out and £8 return, £14.50 total, as long as I bought well in advance, which was no problem.

But now Arriva CrossCountry have decided to 'simplify' their fares which means there are no advance purchase tickets available before 9.30am. Meaning the fare goes up to £30.50, which is more than double .. And the simplification process was not supposed to mean any price rises!

I *could* buy a season ticket but that locks me into getting the train every day, when really I want to get the train 3 days a week.