n A FIVE-minute train journey cost a man £226.60 because he tried to dodge a fare.
Michael Hayes, aged 43, of St George’s Road, Bolton, boarded a train at Bolton on November 17 without buying a ticket that would have cost him £1.60.
He was charged with intentionally avoiding payment and the allegation was proved at Bolton Magistrates Court in his absence.
Hayes was fined £110 and ordered to pay a £15 victim surcharge, £100 to Northern Rail for its costs, and £1.60 to Northern Rail in compensation.
It was also proved in Hayes’ absence that he gave a false address to a railways employee on the same day, though magistrates chose not to punish him further.
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