Sir,
In reply to Mr. Walker's letter in your June 4 edition, as a regular rail-traveller I would have expected him to realise that any form of travel to, from or through Cardiff on a 'match' day is bound to be chaotic. He really cannot blame either Arriva (Wales) or Great Western for that. Also, I notice that he had booked a Standard Saver ticket - was he not offered an Apex or Super Advance. Both include reservations and cost less.
I would advise him in future to do any rail bookings through a proper rail booking office, such as Carmarthen Station, where they will have all the relevant information and, unlike travel agents, do not charge a booking fee. There are also large notices on most stations notifying passengers of changes in time-tables for 'match' days and Arriva Wales' time-tables can be obtained (free) from Tenby Town Council offices and Tenby Library.
Further to this, he could help to press for improvements to Arriva trains by joining Pembrokeshire Rail Travellers Association. Membership forms can be obtained from the treasurer, D. G. Watts, on (01646) 692752.
Membership entitles you to three issues of the Pembrokeshire Rail Guide, giving both times and fares, plus five/six newsletters. PRTA has a representative on Rail Passenger Council (Wales).
I hope Mr. Walker will continue to use trains as it is both personally more comfortable than driving, and makes a contribution to cutting fossil fuel use.
Ann Lukes,
60 Knowling Mead,
Tenby.