A Bolton man has been fined for being on the Metrolink without a ticket.

Mohammad Alkawarit was found in Pomona station, in Trafford, without a valid ticket or lawful reason for being there in May this year.

The case against the 24-year-old proved at Tameside Magistrates Court.

Following this Alkawarit, from Lilly Street, Heaton, Bolton, was fined £220 and ordered to pay further costs of £208.

In total his decision not to purchase a ticket set him back £428.

In September, the penalty fare for travelling without a valid ticket or pass on Metrolink was increased to £120 from the 24th September to tackle fare evasion on public transport.

Customers can also purchase a ticket or travelcard with cash or card at the ticket machine or via the new Bee Network app from 18th September. Passengers cannot buy tickets on the tram.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said at the time: “Fare evasion is something we take very seriously, and it will continue to be a priority as we move to the integrated Bee Network.

“While most people who travel by tram do so legally by purchasing a ticket, there are some who continue to think the rules do not apply to them.

“Our message is clear: if you travel on Metrolink without paying, you’ll now face a higher penalty fare, and you could be prosecuted.

“For 30 years Metrolink received no public subsidy, and the money we raised from fare-paying passengers is reinvested into the network for everyone’s benefit. If people are fare dodging, we won’t be able to improve the service we offer.

“Metrolink will play a vital role in realising our vision of a truly integrated public transport system, the Bee Network, which works for everyone. I would urge everyone to consider the consequences of fare evasion.”

Changes to Metrolink’s conditions of carriage will see the maximum penalty for fare evasion on Metrolink rise from £100 to £120 (reduced to £60, previously £50, if paid within two weeks). The fine for failing to pay by contactless, currently set at £45, will increase to £60 at the same time.

The same fines are also being introduced on Bee Network franchised bus services in Bolton, Wigan, and parts of Salford, Bury and Manchester.