I say make it easier to get to Blackpool by rail - rather than multiple changes

Attempts to increase Blackpool’s rail connection with London have stalled - despite coming at a time when the resort is enjoying massive multi-million investment.

Train operator Avanti West Coast says it has made a new bid to bring back two weekday services it lost last year, plus an extra weekend provision. It was hoped that these could begin at the start of last week.

But the company, which is responsible for providing the service between Blackpool and the capital, says it is still waiting for confirmation from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), an independent, non-ministerial government department.

Without the green light from ORR, no progress can be made.

“I would like trains to London to start earlier on a Sunday,” said Sue Nichols “first one isn’t until after 8am which is ridiculous . Then I would like the ones that are scheduled to be more reliable and have more carriages at peek times.”

“Bring back the 3.33am service to Manchester Airport,” said Paul Derbyshire, “so we can catch the early flights.”

Darren James added: “What Blackpool needs is more direct services from across the country, as it was in BR days.

“From Nottingham, North Wales, Birmingham, Portsmouth etc.

“Make it easy to get to Blackpool rather than multiple changes.”

Andrew Johnstone was surprised there were no direct trains to Blackpool from Scotland considering the amount of Scottish visitors to our town.