From eWatford Observer 11/12/07

Miserable trips to Watford

A DISABLED rail user is concerned about mixed messages received from a
train operating company when travelling to Watford.

Stuart Taylor, who holds a disability "Freedom Pass", issued to
residents of London boroughs, and travels from Euston to Watford,
daily, says that the confusion around the official rules of the
validity of his pass is making his journeys to Watford a misery.

Stuart, of Romford, said: "It is ludicrous, why can't they just work
it out?

"I asked a guard on the train the other day whether my pass would be
valid, and he just shrugged his shoulders and said if I am going to
Watford, he wasn't going to stop me.
"He said that the rules are completely unenforceable so he would be
accepting all of them."

According to Stuart, London Midland customer service agents say that
the guards have discretion in terms of enforcing these passes but they
are not officially valid.

Matt Hurst, of London Midland said: "Since November 18, passengers can
use their Disability Freedom Pass on our services from Euston to
Watford.

"We have briefed all staff on the change, and customers can check on
our website, or phone customer service on 0845 602 4277 for more
information."

For more information on Freedom Passes, visit www.freedompass.org.

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John Burke

WRUG