Penalty fare: Southeast trains?

Question

Could I ask someone in the know here about a problem I had this morning?

I had a dispute with an employee of South Eastern trains because I had forgotten my Photo Card for my travel card. He insisted I would have to pay a penalty fare of £20, I disputed this. In the end I agreed to pay the single fare (minimum required by law) and dispute it with them later.

We then got into an argument because I refused to sign the ticket as it does not state what I am signing for. I was happy to sign to say the information on the ticket was correct but not that I was in the wrong and accept the Penalty Fare. Because it was not clearly stated I did not want to sign it.

After taking my money in cash the guy then refused:

to hand me the note,

Issue me with a receipt for money,

Give me my money back

Or let me out of the station.

He held me “prisoner” confined behind the barriers until he forced me to sign the ticket against my will and my better judgment.

Was his action lawful? I had already paid the required amount and requested a receipt and / or exit.

Answer 1

Use the National Rail website - see below.

You can complain online.

Answer 2

It doesn't sound like it.  Does the guy work for Southeast trains.  I'd take it further and write to the company.   A better way i feel would have been to have gotten your address so they can send the the agreement to pay the fare.

What c***s.  Honestly service on the trains in Britain suck balls.  I mean i got into an argument with some stupid b*tch working for First Transpennine Express on the Manchester to Cleethorpes because she never gave me my £1 change.  

She then went back for spot check and then came back and threw my money on the table and said she's only doing it because she feel sorry for me! How insulting!