Rail fares are due to rise by an average of 1.1% next year, the smallest annual increase for six years.

The increase comes into effect from Saturday, January 2, according to industry body Rail Delivery Group, which represents train operators and Network Rail.

However, Kent commuters will pay a sliver less than the average across the country.

Southeastern decided to put its fares up by 1%, giving Kent commuters a 0.1% saving compared to the rest of the UK.

It means an off-peak single ticket from Ashford International to London St Pancras will increase from £29.50 to £29.70.

Fares increased by 2.2% last year as part of a gradual decline in price increases nationally since a 6.2% increase in 2011.

“We know that nobody likes to pay more to travel by train, especially to get to work, and at 1.1 per cent this is the smallest average increase in fares for six years..." - Paul Plummer, Rail Delivery Group

Rail Delivery Group chief executive Paul Plummer said: “We know that nobody likes to pay more to travel by train, especially to get to work, and at 1.1 per cent this is the smallest average increase in fares for six years.

“On average 97p in every pound from fares is spent on trains, staff and other running costs. With passenger numbers doubling in the last 20 years, money from fares now almost covers the railway’s day-to-day operating costs.

“This allows government to focus its funding on building a bigger, better network when the railway is becoming increasingly important at driving economic growth, underpinning jobs, and connecting friends and families.

“As an industry, we are working closer together to deliver better stations, more trains and improved services, and to get more out of every pound we spend.”

Passengers can buy tickets with the new prices from today.

These increases cover standard rail fares.

It was revealed in August that regulated fares, such as annual season tickets, would rise by 1% next year.

Southeastern spokesman John Staples said: “We understand fare prices are a top priority for passengers and that's why we offer discounted tickets and a range of special offers and promotional fares on off-peak travel.

"These include advanced fares bought online - the cheapest way to purchase our tickets - and our kids for a quid offer for one adult with a valid ticket to pay just £1 each for up to four children.

"Fares contribute to the maintenance and future investment of services, as well as rail infrastructure.

"Over the next three years, Southeastern is investing millions of pounds refurbishing trains, and stations and providing better quality information to help people with their journeys."