I think the point is, that if there is no way to avoid paying the 'booking charge', why is is stated as a separate charge rather than being included in the total ticket price?

Obviously the costs involved in booking tickets have to be covered, but all the other unavoidable costs are not listed separately- so why is this listed as a separate charge?

It's something that annoys me too, Tatterfoal. Warwick Festival do this too- an extra booking fee has to be paid, even if you pick the tickets up yourself. I notice Whitby don't, though.

Just tell us what we have to pay!