Rail fares for Welwyn Hatfield and Potters Bar passengers will increase by 1.8 per cent next year - marginally less than the national average.

Train operator Govia has announced that fares on its Great Northern route will rise by 1.8 per cent from January 2.

The Rail Delivery Group, which represents the industry, has announced a national average rise of 2.3 per cent, although regulated fares are capped at 1.9 per cent - the official inflation rate in July.

From December 11, Great Northern passengers will be among the first in Britain to benefit from a new compensation system for delays of 15 minutes or more, rather than the current 30-minute threshold.

Chief executive Charles Horton said: “Our passengers will be the first to benefit from this enhanced delay repay scheme. It is something our passengers have been telling us they wanted for some time so I am delighted we are able to deliver it to them.

“Our aim is get passengers where they want to go on time, but if we don’t, it is right that they are compensated.”