Train fitties

The evening train ran late tonight and so was packed as a result. It's normally busy, with dtanding only; but because there is another train 20 minutes after, when my train runs late a lot of people that get the later train jump on in the hope of getting home ten minutes earlier, albeit in considerable discomfort.

One of the things that amazes me, is that even though there are more people on the train there is no increase in train fitties.

Train fitties are - for anyone who doesn't get my Facebook statuses - fit people on trains. They are not fit people on platforms or any other form of transport, only trains. I'm not even sure such a phenomenon as a bus fitty or tram fitty even exists, such is the poor quality of person on those transports, but train fitties do exist.

There are two main types of train fitty: genuine train fitties; and aquired train fitties. Genuine train fitties are just that: they are fit. They are someone you would go for in a bar or nightclub. You have to hope for a seat so people can't see your willy move. Acquired fitties don't start out as fitties. They are usually quite close: 3 or 4 pinters maybe; but because you see them on such a frequent basis (assuming you commute by train) you end up expecting, and then hoping to see them each day. You start to fancy them just because you see them so often. Maybe it is because you see them as attainable. Maybe there is even some rapport: a nod or a smile (with being British you obviously won't actually speak) . Who knows, but they acquire fitty status.

For purposes of clarification, they do have to start of very close to fitty status anyway. Not every regular commuter attains train fitty status with their season ticket.

The kaw of averages would suggest that as the number of ordinary passengers increases, so the number of train fitties increases propertionately. But this doesn't seem to happen.

I think it is because it is the branch line. On the mainline to London you do get a better class of person, and a higher proportion of train fitties. But maybe that's just my London bias.

Anyhow, they are a small touch to brighten the day.

I may not post over the weekend. I may not post on Monday if I get taken by the Rapture!