I find myself wondering why he allowed it to get so bad in the first place, when he had far more influence over the matter.

Great Western Railway train fares for journeys in Devon and Cornwall are set to increase this month. The train operator says this is due to "shifts in customer demand".

Ticket prices for all off peak journeys in Devon and Cornwall, including ones that travel to and from Taunton, will soon be increasing by five per cent as GWR^▸ (Great Western Railway) reports changes to customers' habits. They say they are hoping this will also encourage people to travel on quieter trains.

GWR also explained that the increase in fares is also intended to help the company generate a "sensible financial return for government." A spokesperson for GWR said: "From June 11, Off-Peak Day fares within Devon and Cornwall, including fares to/from Taunton, are increasing by 5%. This is designed to help manage shifts in customer demand and encouraging travel on quieter trains, while ensuring we are generating a sensible financial return for government.

"As part of the current National Rail Contracts, all revenue is returned to government and train operators are paid a fixed management fee.

"The Devon & Cornwall Railcard continues to offer 1/3 off all standard class Anytime or Off-Peak tickets to local residents.

"And Off-Peak fares still offer a significant discount against Anytime fares."