UK rail ticket machines hit by IT glitch

Image copyright PA

Rail ticket machines across the UK fell out of service this morning preventing commuters from using them to pay fares.

Messages on their screens said they had "no online connectivity", making it impossible for them to transmit payment card details.

A spokesman for the Rail Delivery Group told the BBC the issue had been resolved shortly before 09:00 BST.

He added that the fault appeared to have been with the software and systems provided by Scheidt & Bachmann.

A spokeswoman for the German company was unable to provide additional information.

Southern Rail, Greater Anglia, Great Northern and ScotRail were among those affected to have apologised via Twitter after customer complaints.

"The problem is now fixed and all our machines are able to accept credit cards," added a spokesman for Thameslink.

"Anyone who was unable to buy a ticket as a result of the problem will not be penalised."

Manchester's Metrolink confirmed that ticket machines for its tram network had also been disrupted as a consequence.

Customers were still able to buy tickets online via the web and apps while the fault was ongoing.