THE commute between St Albans and London has been calculated as the most expensive in England in recent research carried out following rail fare increases.

Passengers using First Capital Connect services from St Albans held at protest at the city station on Tuesday, January 3.

They vented their frustration at the inflation busting train ticket prices and it seems they had every reason to be angry.

It is suggested for many people forking out almost £3,000 of their wage a year on an annual season ticket is the second largest bill they face after paying their mortgage.

Research has shown the £2,988 for a annual train ticket between St Albans to London is the most expensive in England, working out to be 31 pence a mile, or £10.60 for a single ticket at 52 pence a mile.

Commuters in St Albans have long complained about the level of service and say it does not match the soaring prices for travel. On the first working day of 2012 passengers travelling from St Albans not only faced a hike in ticket prices but also found services were delayed.

British rail fares are also said to be the highest in Europe.