BEFORE the Second World War there were few villages in the south of England not served by the railways. During the war an unprecedented volume of passengers were carried.

But a disastrous policy of neglect ensued aided by Dr Beeching. Whilst continental Europe created superb systems, British governments failed to maintain ours, let alone modernise it.

We hoped the present government would do better especially when Rail Track failed and the taxpayer had to contribute.

Now there is someone running the Strategic Rail Authority. He may be achieving a great deal we hear little. Then out of the blue the Bristol to Oxford service is cancelled. Moreover our service from Bradford on Avon to Waterloo may be axed next year. These trains are frequently full, late applicants being turned away. This is an amenity which attracted some families to move here.

Is it asking too much to be informed why this axe could possibly be justified?

R L ALLEN

St Margaret's Villas

Bradford on Avon