Rail users urged to back direct London link fight

Shrewsbury's MP today urged rail travellers to get behind the campaign to restore Shropshire's direct train link to London.

Daniel Kawczynski wants people to write to Transport Secretary Justine Greening, urging her to make the route a priority when deciding who should take over county rail services next month. He said that it was 'outrageous' such a service did not exist already.

The call follows an invitation for Shropshire MPs and county business leaders to meet Theresa Villiers, the transport minister, next week.

That invitation was made after Mr Kawczynski raised the matter with David Cameron at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday.

Transport giants Main Line, Virgin, First Group, Abeillo, and Keolis are all in negotiations to take over the 15-year franchise for the West Coast Main Line, which passes through the county.

The decision will be made in August, and county representatives have been pressing for whoever gets the contract to be made to reintroduce a Shropshire to London route.

Mr Kawczynski said: "We must show the Secretary of State how important this service is to Shrewsbury and Shropshire, which is why I'm asking everyone to please write a letter or e-mail urging her to consider a direct service in the coming 15-year contract decision in August.

"I will continue to strongly state the case to the Transport Secretary and the Prime Minister, but we also need a demonstration of strong public support.

"Frankly it is outrageous that we do not have this service already, and I am doing my utmost to help secure the direct link that Shrewsbury and Shropshire deserves.

Mr Kawczynski said people can contact his office with messages of support which he will then pass on.

E-mail [email protected] or write to Benbow Business Park, Harlescott Lane, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY1 3FA.