The rail operator said staff could be more productively employed

More than 3,000 customers have registered their opposition at proposals which could see some ticket offices close completely.

Passenger groups claim it would cause severe inconvenience to commuters and would increase levels of vandalism.

The train operator said staff could be more productively used at quiet times.

'Improve security'

Passengers' objections were lodged at the Department for Transport by the Rail Passengers Council (RPC) and the London Transport Users Committee (LTUC.)

LTUC chairman Brian Cooke said: "As we anticipated, passengers are wholly opposed to these changes.

"The lack of ticket purchasing facilities will lead to substantial inconvenience for passengers, increased levels of vandalism, graffiti and anti-social behaviour - all of which make rail travel less attractive to passengers."

The RPC and LTUC said they were also concerned the plans do not meet the needs of disabled people.

South Eastern Trains (SET) said staff will be redeployed to new jobs which would improve security, station presentation and revenue protection.

A spokesman insisted new ticket vending machines were being installed at stations which could issue a full range of tickets and take credit cards, so passengers could buy tickets when offices were not staffed.

SET took over rail services between London and Kent and Sussex after Connex lost the regional franchise.

The two passenger groups said they would keep lobbying ministers to reject the plans as they currently stand.