Local Lib Dems have launched a campaign to cut overcrowding on First Great Western services in and around Bath.

We are calling on First Great Western to provide more trains and carriages on its routes which serve Freshford, Oldfield Park and Keynsham stations.

The train company recently took over the Wessex Trains franchise and re-vamped its timetable, leading to hundreds of complaints from passengers across the West including those who regularly use Freshford, Keynsham and Oldfield Park stations.

Although First has stated that they are now reviewing the timetable and monitoring the situation, there is a need to keep the pressure up on First to take account of the continued growth in passenger numbers in their timetables and in services.

Cllr Shaun McGall (Oldfield Ward)  said, "It is becoming increasingly commonplace for passengers to be left standing at stations because trains are already at bursting point."

This is the letter posted on the First Great Western website from Glenda Lamont, Customer Services Director, detailing how they claim to be addressing customer concerns about the new timetable:
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Dear Customer,

I know many of you are concerned about the changes to your journey as a result of the recent timetable changes.

Some of these issues have arisen because of our own operational problems, others because we recognise elements of the timetable haven’t met all customers’ needs.

We have an opportunity in December 2007 to change the timetable again, however, I understand for many people a quicker solution is required.

Whilst not wishing to promise something we cannot deliver, the purpose of this note is to assure you we have a team of people looking at what may be possible for early in the New Year.

May I take this opportunity of sending you season’s greetings from all at First Great Western.

Glenda Lamont
Customer Services Director
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Why not email First and tell them what you think or call a member of their Customer Services Team on: 08457 000 125 (open daily, 0700 to 2200).