Train companies have been criticised for their ticket machines derailing passengers with too much baffling jargon.

Phrases such as ‘London Terminals’ and ‘Any Permitted’, along with abbreviated text including ‘Anytime R’ for anytime return, have been highlighted as being particularly confusing.

Operators found to be using jargon include Thameslink and Southeastern.

Industry regulator the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is calling for more to be done to eliminate bewildering terminology when passengers are buying tickets.

The ORR stated: "While millions of tickets are purchased using ticket vending machines without obvious problems being encountered, it is equally clear that further improvements in the information provided by such machines - such as clearer information on ticket restrictions and less use of industry terminology or jargon - would assist passengers in making the best decision when buying tickets."

A study by the ORR has also found some passengers are waiting several minutes after the last peak service has left the station before they can buy off-peak tickets from machines.

The Rail Delivery Group, representing Network Rail and train operators, says steps are being taken to remove jargon from machines but accepts more needs to be done.

A spokesman said: "Independent research carried out on behalf of the rail industry shows 19 out of 20 people using self-service machines get the right ticket for their journey, which is comparable to customers buying online.

"Operators have to strike a balance between making ticket machines quick and easy to use while offering passengers a comprehensive range of fares, and we're always looking to improve.

"We've recently rolled out clearer language on machines to do away with jargon and to make clearer any ticket restrictions but we know we have more to do."

What problems have you had when buying train tickets either at stations or online? How could the process be made simpler? Add your comments below.