Victory as Shropshire wins direct rail link to London
People power has won Shropshire a direct train link to London, with rail bosses today confirming services will begin next year.
It is a victory for more than 3,000 people who signed a Shropshire Star petition, which was backed by politicians of all parties and business leaders in the county.
Today Network Rail was challenged to build on the announcement by committing to expand services in the future by adding peak-time commuter trains.
The Government's Office of Rail Regulation (ORR) today revealed that, after meetings between Network Rail and Virgin, off peak services will start in May.
The ORR today said it "recognises the importance of direct rail services".
Trains will travel between London's Euston Station and Shrewsbury, with stops expected at Telford and Wellington.
See Thursday's Shropshire Star for two pages of background and reactions
Star comment: More still needs to be done
