'Not everyone wants these to be gone... not everyone is online and people need a choice'

With web and app booking, self-service machines and smart phone QR code tickets, many can't remember the last time they used a ticket office at their local train station.

But that doesn't mean everyone's happy the vast majority across the country are set for the axe.

Industry body the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) unveiled proposals on Wednesday which could mean nearly all offices are shut, with only those at the busiest stations remaining open.

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It's part of a move to 'modernise customer service', with the industry facing increased pressure from the government to save money following dips in revenue caused by the Covid pandemic.

In Greater Manchester, 45 manned ticket offices - including Manchester Piccadilly - are earmarked for closure.

Manchester Victoria is one of six stations that would retain ticket offices in the region under the plans.

At Manchester's busiest station, Piccadilly's ticket office, 'will remain open short-term for customers who have complicated ticket queries which cannot currently be dealt with online or at a ticket vending machine', train operator Avanti says.

Outside Stockport station, many commuters were shocked to learn of the plans.

Many said they don't use them, but recognised that for some, including the elderly, they're vital.

"I think it is cheaper online," Yvonne, a sporadic train commuter, said. "I would very rarely use a ticket office myself.

“But they are necessary for other people. Not everyone wants these to be gone. Not everyone is online and these people need a choice.”

Suggesting cuts are made elsewhere, Jez Reid said: “It doesn’t affect me because I just use the app for my tickets. I