A new MP says rail passengers are being “punished for patience” as fares from his constituency to London could rise by nearly £250 a year.

James MacCleary said rail services in his Lewes constituency are “simply not working” as passengers are paying more for services that are often delayed or cancelled.

The Liberal Democrat MP has called for ticket prices to be frozen to encourage people to take the train and to help with the cost of living.

Under usual fare increases, season tickets from Lewes to London would rise by £249 in 2025.

Annual tickets from Seaford to Brighton would also rise from £1,672 to £1,748.

Mr MacClearly, who was elected in July when he ousted Conservative minister Maria Caulfield, said: “Passengers in Sussex have been hammered by rising ticket prices, whilst our railways are not working as well as they should.

“Passengers should not be punished for patience with a lack of long-term investment in improving connectivity and reliability with a bigger bill.

“I’m calling for a freeze on rail fares to encourage people to use public transport, and help people through the cost of living crisis.

“We have seen a cap on bus fares help with the cost of living and encourage people to use the bus more. It will be disappointing if train costs are heading in the opposite direction.”