A MAN has received a hefty fine after activating the emergency stop on a train because he couldn’t afford his fare.

Christopher Daley, of South Avenue, Orford, appeared before Warrington Magistrates’ Court last month.

Here, the charges of failing to produce/deliver rail ticket on request/give name and address, unacceptable behaviour on the railway, and activating an emergency system and/or communication system were proved.

The court heard how Daley was a passenger on a train that had been delayed at Manchester Victoria in December last year.

Travel Safe Officers were made aware that 47-year-old Daley was responsible for the delay after activating the emergency stop.

When questioned, he stated he had done this as he ‘could not afford to get back to Edinburgh’.

Daley was told by officers that this was unacceptable.

He then refused to give his details when requested and they were only obtained after the British Transport Police became involved.

Court documents state: “He was advised the facts would be reported.

“Following the incident, a letter requesting an explanation was sent to the defendant.

“There was no response and a double fixed penalty was issued.”

Daley was handed a £660 fine, and ordered to pay a surcharge of £66 and court costs of £85.