A u-turn on the decision to close almost all of the country's rail ticket offices has come as a relief to many local rail users, workers and Rutland's MP, who was campaigning to reverse the decision, and to install a ticket machine at Oakham station.

Plans detailing the mass closure of almost all of England's remaining railway ticket offices were confirmed on 5 July 2023, meaning that almost 1,000 of the country's 1,004 offices were set to close.

However, following mass backlash from rail users, workers and MPs, the Transport Secretary has encouraged a u-turn, meaning that hundreds of ticket offices will be saved.

Rutland and Melton MP, Alicia Kearns, said: "I am very pleased to share that the Transport Secretary has asked train operators to withdraw their proposals to close manned ticket offices.

"This should mean our ticket offices at Oakham and Melton Train Station remain manned and open!"

Currently, Melton station's ticket office looks set to remain in situ, while the future of Oakham station's ticket office is unconfirmed - although the local MP is optimistic.

Ms Kearns added: "The Transport Minister, Huw Merriman, will be meeting train operators and accessibility groups to discuss how we can incorporate reforms such as pay as you go ticketing, simplified ticketing, and access for all schemes to ensure our railway is open for everyone.

"Thank you to all of you who took the time to raise your concerns via the public consultation on the closures – over 750,000 individuals and organisations responded! I know this decision will come as a great relief to our communities.

"Rest assured, I am still working to get us a ticket machine at Oakham Train Station, but the need has become less urgent."

Find out about the Conservative MP's campaign to get a ticket office installed at Oakham Station here.