A transport campaigner has called for an end to rising rail fares after new analysis revealed train journeys in Kent can cost more than double those in Europe.

While a journey from Folkestone to London could set you back £41 at peak times, travelling from Calais to Paris will cost just £27 - despite being more than twice the distance.

With prices set to increase by 3.2% next January, a former Lib Dem councillor has claimed it begs the question Kent's commuters being taken for a ride.

James Willis believes the privatisation of rail companies forms a big part of the problem, and that businesses should either become non-profit, or subject to longer contracts - aimed at giving them a more long-term outlook.

Southeastern said that rail fares are set, or influenced, by the government.

Its policy is to ensure passengers pay more for the upkeep of the country's railways than taxpayers.

A spokesman for the company added that fares will help to secure £9.2bn of economic benefits in the south east, as part of a government plan for prosperity in South East London and Kent.

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