Nottingham’s tram network is set for prime-time TV as fare dodgers are caught on camera in a new series following transport officers on the frontline.
Nottingham Express Transit (NET) will feature in the latest season of 5’s Fare Dodgers: At War with the Law, which shines a spotlight on the battle against ticket evasion across the UK’s rail, bus and tram networks.
Cameras followed NET customer experience agents as they carried out patrols across the city, capturing the challenges they face keeping services running while tackling passengers who refuse to pay.
The new season includes five episodes filmed on the Nottingham tram network and airing weekly throughout August.
Viewers will see undercover operations where suspected fare dodgers are stopped by plain-clothes officers, including one incident involving two men travelling without tickets.
The series also follows NET staff working alongside Nottinghamshire Police to detain a young man suspected of fare evasion and anti-social behaviour.
NET says the programme offers a behind-the-scenes look at the work carried out to keep passengers safe and ensure everyone follows the rules.
Sarah Turner, managing director of NET, said: “Working with the production team to cast a light on the incredible work our agents do to keep the network moving has been very rewarding.
“Managing instances of attempted fare evasion and anti-social behaviour forms an important part of the bigger end goal that we’re always working towards – creating a safe and reliable network that people can depend on every day.”
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The tram operator operates a zero-tolerance approach to fare evasion and says more than 10,000 people were caught travelling without a valid ticket in 2025.
According to NET, fare evasion is costing the tram network around £2 million a year in unpaid fares.
Sarah added: “Reducing fare evasion is a critical part of ensuring our network is safe to use.
“Thousands of people rely on the trams to get to work, visit family and more, so it is incredibly important that people are purchasing their tickets to support this vital infrastructure in the city.
“We hope this series helps raise awareness of the impact fare evasion has on the whole network, our passengers and the wider city.”
Fare Dodgers: At War with the Law airs on 5 on Mondays at 9pm and will also be available to stream.
