Rail company vows to improve service through Welshpool

The rail company running services through Mid Wales has vowed to get back on track after being beset with problems since taking over.

Transport for Wales has cancelled over a quarter of services since it took over from Arriva Trains Wales, causing disruption and delays for passengers on the line from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth.

The firm says it has inherited problems after taking on the franchise on October 14 and has also been affected by poor weather. But the company has now issued an apology and pledged improvements in 2019.

Train depot head of production David Watts told the Shropshire Star: “I understand people have paid for their ticket and expect a service and that it’s frustrating if a train doesn’t turn up for whatever reason.”

He said Autumn storms had added to the problem because carriages had been damaged by debris falling on lines.

Transport For Wales had promised a better service before taking over. But it was forced to publish full page adverts of apology in local newspapers after it became clear 36 out of 127 trains were in dock for repairs, causing delays and cancellations.

Transport For Wales Chief Operating Officer Rick Davey and Network Rail Chief Operating Officer Alison Thompson signed the adverts telling passengers they deserved better.

Mr Watts said his team of technicians were working tirelessly to keep rolling stock inherited from Arriva on track until new trains could be introduced. He said: “ We are really proud of these trains but there are a lot of factors and things that can knock us out of kilter."