perhaps if more people had used them though this would’nt have happened. Basic economics I’m afraid – if the demand isn’t there the service goes

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Richard Branson’s the winner here. Virgin fought against the project every step of the way, even though they had no interest in the route until Wrexham and Shropshire came along. They barred the trains from allowing passengers to mount or alight in Birmingham or the airport, although the trains would be forced to delay there to allow Virgin trains to speed past. They then set up their own services in direct competition, and, of course, with a much faster journey time. How much money does that man need?

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I think criticism of their business model is unfair – the fact is that operation of open access services in the UK is not a level playing field. Had W&S been allowed to stop at Birmingham and Wolverhampton it’s likely the service would have survived – but the franchising rules precluded this. Also worthy of note is that if other trains were running late, then W&S trains went to the back of the queue (even though it wasn’t their fault).

This makes a mockery of the idea that the rail industry is in any way truly competitive. It also leaves Wrexham, Telford, and Shrewsbury without a direct rail link to the capital again. Proof if it were needed that if you want to survive in the modern rail market then you need to treat your customers with utter contempt.

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In loosing this service, I feel that I have lost a friend. As a regular traveller to London, Wrexham & Shropshire represented everything I could have wished for. A consistently friendly and dependable service that was value for money and, in good travel conditions, very reliable. The ticketing options allowed me the flexibility to purchase tickets to suit different situations. For important engagements and work, I could purchase flexible tickets at the station or on board the train without penalty. For leisure visits, I could take advantage of the cheap advance offers online. Having travelled extensively by train across Britain, this service has simply stood out. To me this was arguably the most ‘complete’ service from start to finish, an example to other operators as to what can be achieved. It had that ‘human’ element which made it more than just a means of getting from A to B. Though this has been a sad day for me and many others, I would like to express a big thank you to all the staff and managers. This current economic situation has not rewarded them. I hope that they, along with the rolling stock, will be successfully re engaged elsewhere.

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I have just returned from Gobowen Station where I went to salute the last Wrexham and Shropshire – lots of people there of all ages to say goodbye to what felt like an old family friend.
We weren’t let down, the train came in slowly and majestically, blowing the horn (?). Lots of staff on board and those of us on the platform went forward and shook hands and hugged them, several people had presents for the staff, flowers and bottles. What more proof is needed of the real appreciation the community had for the service and the staff? They will be much missed and we hope they find employment.

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