Here is the letter that Tracey Brown wrote.

Ticket machine screen impossible to read

It is very difficult to view the information on the ticket machine screen and so practically impossible to buy a ticket from it. It is absolutely crucial that this machine is functional as the ticket office is only open in the morning.s
If the machine cannot be fixed - it has been in this condition for many months now - could a sign be fixed on it advising passengers whether or not they may board a train without a ticket then buy the ticket at their destination?

Hi Tracey

Please could you take a picture of it next time you are there. I know cameras can be a bit funny when taking pictures of screens but we should be able to get the gist. You can upload it through this site.

I did try a couple of weeks ago but, in spite of it being an overcast day, only got the reflection of my camera, so didn't save it. At that time the text on the screen was barely visible but I was able to buy a ticket by leaning onto the screen and putting my head close to it. The passenger behind me couldn't see the text at all so gave up trying to buy his ticket.
The screen's text was even fainter last Friday. Fortunately I'd bought my ticket from CMK in advance to leave from Wolverton. However, a woman with a child in a buggy missed her train as she was unable to purchase a ticket.

Hello Tracey

If you get an opportunity in the near future, please take some photos and upload them. If you cannot get them in the near future, please can you tell us and I will drop London Midland a little message.

This is a photo of Wolverton Station's ticket machine, taken 3.20pm on 29/03/2012. The touch screen was completely dead, possibly having overheated in the sun.
A couple of hours earlier, when it was cooler but just as sunny, it had been possible to read the screen. I'm now wondering if the screen is more legible the earlier it is in the day?

Oops, the photo was taken yesterday Wednesday 28th March.

Tracey,
The screens on the ticket machines at the 3 First Capital Connect stations near to me (Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton) were replaced recently after complaints that they were difficult to read in strong sunlight. The new screens are much better so hopefully London Midland can achieve the same for Wolverton.
Good luck with this,
Paul

Thanks Paul. Wolverton is currently in the process of getting a brand new station, to replace the temporary structure we've had for many years. The building now has walls and a roof, which is most encouraging. Not sure when it is due to open or be up and running, or whether the existing ticket machine will be kept on or simply relocated inside.