Travelling from Birmingham to Bristol, I left my overnight bag on the train. I reported it to the train operator (CrossCountry) and station owner (GWR) and was told by both it would likely end up in Bristol. After two weeks it arrived at Birmingham New Street where lost property is managed by the Excess Baggage Company. I have to pay a £24 courier fee plus £5 admin. Why can’t it just be put on the next train to Bristol?
TH, Bristol
A privatised company hires a private company to return lost items! EBC says that “no system exists to transfer personal items on board trains” and that the £24 reflects the fact few couriers pick up from stations as two staff are needed – one stays in the vehicle at all times. “We believe the charges are fair and reasonable, and are endorsed by Network Rail, and the operating companies,” it adds.
We welcome letters but cannot answer individually. Email us at consumer.champions@theguardian.com or write to Consumer Champions, Money, the Guardian, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU. Please include a daytime phone number. Submission and publication of all letters is subject to our terms and conditions: http://gu.com/letters-terms
