Fare dodgers hit with £3million in Bee Network fines

Ticket inspectors issued more than 1,700 penalty fares on the Ashton Metrolink line during 2024, new data shows.

TfGM said it recovered over £3million from fare dodgers across the whole Metrolink network in the last calendar year. 

This follows the recruitment of 113 new TravelSafe Support and Enforcement Officers (TSEOs) since the roll-out of the Bee Network in September 2023. 

Those numbers include 45 extra TSEOs since Tranche 3 of the Bee Network came to Tameside, Trafford, Stockport and South Manchester on January 5 this year. 

Danny Vaughan, Chief Network Officer at TfGM, said: “Since the launch of bus franchising TravelSafe Support and Enforcement Officers have been patrolling Bee Network buses and interchanges to provide a reassuring, visible presence to ensure the safety and security of the travelling public. 

“TSEOs have been helping passengers with ticketing and fare advice as they familiarise themselves with Bee Network services, including in Tameside where franchised services were introduced in January this year. 

“They are also responsible for revenue inspection.  

“Fare evasion is something we take very seriously and while most people who travel by bus do so legally by buying a ticket or using a pass, there are some who continue to think the rules do not apply to them. 

“Across our TSEOs on the Bee Network and Customer Service Representatives on Metrolink, we have more people than ever checking tickets, and that increased visibility not only provides a deterrent to those ignoring the rules but also helps provide that extra reassurance for other passengers.” 

The enforcement officers have also withdrawn 51 passes from people travelling “fraudulently” on Bee Network buses in the Tranche 3 areas, with a further three having passes revoked for anti-social behaviour either on buses or at bus stations. 

The default penalty for fare evasion is a fine of £120, payable within 21 days, although this is reduced to £60 if settled within 14 days.  

A statement from TfGM’s said: “If you don’t pay your penalty fare notice within the required timescales, enforcement action may be taken to recover the balance.” 

The authority prosecuted more than 10,000 people in 2024 and says it reinvests all recovered funds back into its network.