First Capital Connect reveals details of Thameslink refund scheme (From Times Series)

Thameslink refund scheme announced

10:21am Wednesday 27th January 2010

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A BELEAGURED rail operator has revealed the compensation packet it is going to offer passengers on the Thameslink line who have suffered three months of disruption.

First Capital Connect, which operates the line which runs through Mill Hill, Hendon and Cricklewood stations, is to offer up to ten days free travel to frustrated commuters.

The company was hit by a drivers' strike between November and January and then suffered when snow and ice hot earlier this month.

Annual season ticket holders will get a five per cent discount on their next annual ticket or tickets for ten days free travel.

Monthly pass holders will get a 50 per cent reduction on their next monthly ticket, equivalent to two weeks travel, or ten free tickets.

Passengers with four weeks of tickets during the disruption can recoup five days free travel, while those with eight or more will also get ten days free travel.

People who travel first class will also be entitled to recoup the difference between first class and standard fares for the period November 12 2009 to January 23 this year.

However, the operator said discounts will only be available with purchases from its website or ticket offices and it is currently setting up IT systems and an office to deal with the claims, with exact details of how to claim due out in early February. Old tickets will be needed as proof of purchase.

An Early Day Motion in parliament is calling for the rail operator to be stripped of the franchise for "mismanagement".

However, Gareth Beazant, a spokesman for the firm, said: "We are in touch with MPs and the Department for Transport and are keeping them informed of our improvement plans."