A EURO MP has told the Government that an average eight per cent rise in rail fares is “the last straw” for commuters.

South East MEP Peter Skinner urged Transport Secretary Philip Hammond to rethink the price hike and meet rail campaigners from the region.

Fares are set to rise by the retail price index inflation rate plus an extra three per cent over the next three years.

The Labour MEP said the price of an annual standard class season ticket between Oxford and London could jump from £4,100 now to more than £5,200 by 2015.

Mr Skinner said: “The cost of living has already left people hard-pressed to meet their monthly bills.

“These inflation-busting fare rises are further squeezing commuters and should be rethought.”

In his letter, he told Mr Hammond: “Even without these increases, there is already a great deal of frustration across the region as regards the quality and cost of rail journeys.

“There is very much a feeling of ‘this is the last straw’.”

A Department for Transport spokesman said: “The scale of the deficit means that the Government has had to take some very difficult decisions on rail fares, but this ensures that the major programme of investment in the railways that we are undertaking remains affordable.

“In the long term we need to bring down the cost of our railways so that we can get a better deal for passengers and taxpayers.

“We are determined to do this and, if we succeed, we hope to see the end of above inflation rises in regulated fares.”

l Over-55s will be able to enjoy cut-price rail travel across much of the country until mid-November, thanks to train operator First Great Western and its sister companies.

The Club 55 deal, offers discounted walk-up-and-go off-peak rail travel on FGW trains from £20 return. For more details, see club55.co.uk or visit FGW ticket offices at stations.