Struggling Medway commuters are spiralling into "transport poverty" because of soaring train fares, campaigners warn.

A crippling increase in season tickets from the Towns to London to as much as £4,500-plus will see many residents battling to make ends meet.

Some commuters are already planning to give up jobs in the capital and work locally as they cannot afford the 8% hike from January.

The Campaign for Better Transport calculates the price of a High Speed season ticket will be roughly one fifth of an average Medway resident's income.

Rail fares campaigner Cllr Chris Irvine, who represents Peninsula ward, said residents cannot afford to spend so much on travel.

He said: "It's railway robbery. At least Dick Turpin wore a mask. Southeastern do it with a smile on their face."

Don't miss today's Medway Messenger for a special report.

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