Liz Jarvis writes to Secretary of Transport to oppose closure of local ticket offices

Consultation on the ticket office closures was extended to 1 September after a huge public outcry at the proposals being rushed through.

In the letter, Liz Jarvis, who has been running a campaign to save the ticket offices, says "Residents from across Eastleigh borough have told me how worried they are about these proposals.

"Despite the increasing reliance of online ticket purchases, ticket offices still provide a vital service for many rail passengers, in particular those who are elderly, vulnerable or disabled, and those needing extra assistance. These proposals, which would result in the closure of ticket offices at busy stations including Eastleigh, Hedge End, Chandler's Ford and Netley, would effectively prevent some people from travelling by train altogether."

She also draws attention to Eastleigh's proud railway heritage, and accuses the Government of reducing the quality of service at a time when a "modern and reliable rail network is a necessity to help reduce our carbon emissions and demonstrate a true commitment to tackling climate change. The ongoing trend of rising fares, fewer accessible staff, and a less reliable service is far removed from that goal."