It is unfortunate that Alison Phillips (August 7, page 37) gives the impression that Trowbridge railway station is closed and to go to London by coach.

By coach there is one service to London in the morning, returning in the evening. By train there is an hourly service during August to Swindon with two services an hour Swindon to Paddington. If you wish to go to London from Trowbridge, it is obvious that for choice of times go by train.

From Trowbridge to Bath there are regular rail replacement buses which admittedly take longer than the train would have done but their punctuality is good and the passenger loadings leave considerable spare passenger capacity. This inconvenience for the month of August, when commuter travel is at its lowest, is essential to permit electrification of Box Tunnel and improved clearance of Dundas Aquaduct. Also Trowbridge is staffed until 12.30am. Some are saying that the service is better than usual. Perhaps Alison should research her facts first. Trowbridge railway station is open for business.

Roger Newman, Chairman, West Wiltshire Rail Users Group.