They say life is one big lesson as here I have learnt another. Had I seen this forum before I wouldn't be in the position I am now but nevertheless I would greatly appreciate any retrospective advice.
Back in November I boarded a northbound Thameslink train in London but upon doing so the isle was blocked to my right with a lady and her pushchair. The small section on my left was first class but this was only evident by the 'white headrests' - there was no partition doors and the seats/tables are identical to standard class. Initially I stood, but after a long, tiring day I (stupidly) decided to sit down as the train was so busy.
Literally (yes literally!) 15seconds later the RPI came into the carriage. I showed my ticket to which he pointed out I was seated in the first class area. I sincerely apologised, explained the situation, said I would stand for the reminder of the journey and pleaded for common sense. The inspector was having none of it and said a penalty fare was justified. I took two steps into the 'standard' isle area and he waived a pen and paper in my face demanding my name and address. His aggressive manner really annoyed me so I did and said nothing.
An off-duty police office got involved (well I think he was) and while he sympathised with my circumstances, he said it would be in my interest to cooperate. Reluctantly I did so and the officer departed. I was put under caution and my details were taken. On two separate occasions I asked the RPI what would happen next to which each time he said he would complete the paperwork and they would write to me. At no point was I given the opportunity to pay a penalty fare.
He asked me to sign the form to which I disagreed with a statement he had written (as I didn't say it) to which he snatched it off me and wrote 'refused to sign'. He also refused to return my ticket saying it was needed as evidence and gave me a piece of paper to show inspectors at my departing station.
A few weeks later I received a 'Notice of Intention to Prosecute' to which I wrote back with 'what happened from my point of view' (I can provide more details if needed).
Its been quite some time but I have just received a court summons. This is in relation to 'section 19 of the Railways Byelaws made under section 219 of the Transport Act 2000.' At the bottom of the letter it states 'If you are convicted, the Court will be asked to pay costs. If you plead guilty in writing the application will be as shown below. If you disagree with the application, you should explain why when you write to the Court. Costs in the sum of £125.00 are applied for'.
Having taken the time to read through many of the threads on here I know I have little chance of any success based on the facts. I just want advice as to the best way to proceed. Do I contact Thameslink directly to try resolve out of court (if so how?) or do I admit guilt to the court in writing?
Thanks in advance for any advice & I can provide more details if needed.
Back in November I boarded a northbound Thameslink train in London but upon doing so the isle was blocked to my right with a lady and her pushchair. The small section on my left was first class but this was only evident by the 'white headrests' - there was no partition doors and the seats/tables are identical to standard class. Initially I stood, but after a long, tiring day I (stupidly) decided to sit down as the train was so busy.
Literally (yes literally!) 15seconds later the RPI came into the carriage. I showed my ticket to which he pointed out I was seated in the first class area. I sincerely apologised, explained the situation, said I would stand for the reminder of the journey and pleaded for common sense. The inspector was having none of it and said a penalty fare was justified. I took two steps into the 'standard' isle area and he waived a pen and paper in my face demanding my name and address. His aggressive manner really annoyed me so I did and said nothing.
An off-duty police office got involved (well I think he was) and while he sympathised with my circumstances, he said it would be in my interest to cooperate. Reluctantly I did so and the officer departed. I was put under caution and my details were taken. On two separate occasions I asked the RPI what would happen next to which each time he said he would complete the paperwork and they would write to me. At no point was I given the opportunity to pay a penalty fare.
He asked me to sign the form to which I disagreed with a statement he had written (as I didn't say it) to which he snatched it off me and wrote 'refused to sign'. He also refused to return my ticket saying it was needed as evidence and gave me a piece of paper to show inspectors at my departing station.
A few weeks later I received a 'Notice of Intention to Prosecute' to which I wrote back with 'what happened from my point of view' (I can provide more details if needed).
Its been quite some time but I have just received a court summons. This is in relation to 'section 19 of the Railways Byelaws made under section 219 of the Transport Act 2000.' At the bottom of the letter it states 'If you are convicted, the Court will be asked to pay costs. If you plead guilty in writing the application will be as shown below. If you disagree with the application, you should explain why when you write to the Court. Costs in the sum of £125.00 are applied for'.
Having taken the time to read through many of the threads on here I know I have little chance of any success based on the facts. I just want advice as to the best way to proceed. Do I contact Thameslink directly to try resolve out of court (if so how?) or do I admit guilt to the court in writing?
Thanks in advance for any advice & I can provide more details if needed.
