RAIL union campaigners received widespread public support yesterday as they protested at stations across northern England against fare rises and new profit-driven franchises.

Northern Rail, which runs services between the east and west coasts and from the Scottish border to the northern Midlands, yesterday abolished cheaper off-peak fares, meaning increases of 100 per cent on some journeys.

Transport union RMT targeted 11 stations yesterday, including Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool, at which it informed passengers of the hike. More stations will see protests this week.