A PASSENGER who failed to pay a £7.10 train fare has been hit with a £460 court bill.

Rami Alfattouhi, of Tilston Walk, Wilmslow, boarded a train at Handforth without a valid ticket on Thursday, November 9, last year.

The 27-year-old was travelling on a Northern Train, Warrington Magistrates’ Court heard on September 25.

On the train journey, the defendant produced an advance single ticket from Handforth to Manchester Piccadilly with a 16 to 25 Railcard discount.

When requested, Alfattouhi was unable to produce the accompanying Railcard, saying it was at home.

His details were obtained and he was advised that the facts would be reported.

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

As no response was received, a fixed penalty notice was then sent.

However, this remains unpaid.

Magistrates found the case proved in his absence after listening to the evidence.

Alfattouhi was fined £220 and ordered to pay £7.10 compensation, £88 victim surcharge and £150 costs.

The defendant was given until October 23 to pay the £465.10 court penalty.