TWO years ago I did my bit by taking the train to Coventry.

I actually wrote to the rail company complimenting it on the punctual, quick, economic and clean trains with only one change.

Last week, I enquired on trains to Rugby.

Only one, the 7.22am, to get me to Rugby at 10.10am (ten minutes late), change at Smethwick and New Street. Almost three hours, option drive 1 hours.

Several weeks ago I enquired on trains to Bristol. Options - 6.10am arriving 8.30am (for 10am engagement), changing Hereford and Newport, £16, or 7.50am arriving 10.15am, changing Worcester and Cheltenham, £16. Almost 2 hours, option driving £16 door to door, one hour.

I would like the rail authorities to explain this deterioration in service.

DENNIS C NIGHTINGALE-SMITH, Hanley Swan.