'VICTORY IN RAIL CAMPAIGN,' SAYS SMITH

3.26.10pm GMT Wed 25th Feb 2009

Iain Smith MSP has hailed First Scotrail's confirmation that they will be plugging one of the peak time gaps in the service which appeared at the introduction of the December rail timetable as a victory for passenger-power, but warned the rail companies that he will be keeping a close eye on developments.

Mr Smith said, 'First Scotrail have revealed that they will be introducing an extra morning service from Dundee to Edinburgh. Exact details of its stops are not yet available, but I have been informed that approximate times will be: 08.42 at Leuchars, 08.50 at Cupar, 08.55 at Ladybank and 09.12 at Markinch.

This is a victory for passenger-power and a welcome example of a transport provider listening to the requirements of its users and then making an effort to accommodate them, though it is a pity that they had to create this gap at such a crucial time of day in the first place.

Many of my constituents, several of whom contacted me, who are loyal users of the railway suffered real difficulties with their commuting travel plans when the December timetable was introduced. It is hoped that when the full extent of the May improvements are unveiled that their problems will be solved. However I will be keeping the situation under review to ensure that the rail service in Fife meets the needs of my constituents.'

ENDS