MP Sir Jim Paice has backed a call for urgent improvements to the ticket office at Ely station following complaints to him that people have missed trains.

“In particular, over the last two months concerns have been raised about the closure of the ticket office,” he said.

“This has resulted in lengthy delays, with some people missing their chosen trains. “Although staff with mobile ticket machines has been made available, processing times are longer and customers have complained of a reduction in the range of available tickets.”

The SE Cambs MP said Greater Anglia were recruiting new members of staff for the ticket office “and aim to complete this process as quickly as possible.

“In the meantime, Greater Anglia has pledged to provide temporary cover, with three staff with mobile ticket machines on hand to assist passengers in the mornings and two staff with mobile ticket machines available in the afternoons.”

The MP added: “The rail station is an important transport hub for Ely and it is vital that staffing levels are maintained. The current standards of service are not acceptable and we need permanent improvement.

“I am aware that there have been problems with staff sickness, but this issue has been going on for far too long. It cannot be right that a city the size of Ely should be subjected to such poor service.”