A TRAIN company in the north of England has blocked customers from finding their perfect partner during their journey.
York-based operator Northern has restricted its on-board WiFi, so it won’t allow access to dating apps and websites.
Its internet is delivered under the Friendly WiFi scheme, which blocks access to certain categories of content – including content associated with dating.
Access to websites and apps related to the following are also denied when on-board:
The Friendly WiFi scheme makes sure Northern’s on-board internet service meets minimum filtering standards as children could be present.
Northern has told customers: “This isn’t a love train.”
Matt Rice, chief operating officer at Northern, said in a statement: “We welcome millions of people on-board our trains every year – and access to safe and reliable internet is part and parcel of our customers’ expectations.
“Whilst some dating websites – and users – will operate with appropriate levels of self-moderation, some might not and it’s important that content not suitable for everyone to see or hear – particularly children – isn’t viewed on our trains.”
Some websites and apps have simply been banned because there’s sufficient bandwidth for all customers while trains are on the go.
NSFW content (not suitable for work) is also banned from its trains.
Mr Rice added: “This on-board dating app embargo aside, we wish our single customers all the best in their search for their perfect partner.”
Northern Rail is the second largest train operator in the UK, providing services to a large area of Northern England.
Its trains travel to all the major northern cities – Newcastle, Durham, Darlington, Sunderland, Middlesborough, Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield, Preston, Blackburn, York, Doncaster, and Bradford – and 100 million passenger journeys are made on its network each year.
Surfing Tinder isn’t the only way to get people’s backs up on a train.
Etiquette expert William Hanson has revealed the snacks that all passengers should avoid, for the sake of common decency.
He told Sun Online Travel: “Most train journeys are long train journeys, so passengers will most likely bring their own food onboard.”
“People eating food loudly or eating smelly food is a big no no, you certainly don’t want to be eating things like a lamb balti, fish, boiled eggs, pungent cheeses or any citrus fruits.”
As a rule, William encouraged passengers to avoid eating anything too aromatic on train journeys.
There are several reasons why someone might be banned from trains in the UK
Misbehaving – Threatening, abusive, or offensive language, and behaving in a disorderly manner can get you banned. This includes writing, drawing, painting or fixing anything on the railway, or damaging or detaching any part of it.
Bringing prohibited items – Bringing items that may threaten, annoy, soil, or damage people or property is also not accepted. This includes items such as canoes, hang-gliders, large furniture, large musical instruments, surfboards, motorcycles and mopeds.
Being visibly drunk – You can be banned for being visibly drunk or for trying to sneak alcohol on board.
Using e-scooters – Some train companies have banned e-scooters and similar machines due to safety concerns. A fire risk could be posed by their lithium-ion batteries.
Any passenger who does fancy a slice of cheese, should eat blocks like Red Leicester, cheddar and mozzarella.
This is because these cheeses won’t pong out the carriage.
