The Cumbrian rail network has taken several knocks in recent weeks.

The Furness line, already in increasing demand, has not been scheduled for electrification. We now learn that through services to Manchester on this line are to be reduced to five a day, down from nine.

And Transpennine Express is increasing fares in 2014 by an average of 2.4 per cent across the North West.

The Government seems happy to allow rail companies to make large profits while doing little to reduce overcrowding, improve the network or invest in a public transport system that could be an affordable and greener option for ordinary people.

Between 2011 and 2015 the private rail companies will have increased fares by 24 per cent across the country, giving us the most expensive network in Europe.

I think we should call an end to the failed experiment in privatised rail. This latest round of knocks to a groaning system will only strengthen public support to renationalise the railways.

Surveys show that three quarters of British voters want more control over them.

You can take action by joining the Campaign for Better Transport and demand an end to inflation busting fare rises.

 

Chris Loynes

Ulverston