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Newsletter 135Spring 2007FIRST GREAT WESTERNWith the December 2006 timetable changes now implemented we are looking into ways of trying to improve some of the local services. A number of issues remain to be sorted out. There are fewer fast services at peak times Maidenhead to / from Paddington that use the fast tracks - most trains serving Maidenhead are shoe-horned onto the relief lines - which is OK if all works as per schedule. There are issues with connectivity — especially at peak-times for those travelling westwards from Maidenhead. We are also looking at the early morning timings to see if connections at Maidenhead can be improved from the branch line. All too often something happens to make a mockery of the timetable. At present services seem to be more reliable and punctual than just before the New Year, but there are still far too many instances of cancellations and late running. We are also hoping that communications can be improved - often no explanation or apology for late running / cancellations. If those issues were resolved that would make commuting a bit more bearable - but the guys on the ground are invariably only as good as the information provided to them. CHILTERN RAILWAYSChiltern continues to make amendments to timetables. Some changes to peak-time stopping patterns from High Wycombe and Beaconsfield have been made - not to everyone’s liking, but change never suits everyone. MMPA AGMDate for the diary - Friday 23rd March 2007 at Bourne End Community Centre, 2000 - 2200hrs. We plan to have local rail managers present to explain their policies and actions and plans for the future. Please join us for what is likely to be a lively debate. Your input makes these meetings a success. The meeting is open to both members and non-members. Current Committee comprises: Nigel Hunt (Chairman)
These members are willing to stand for office for another year, but we are always looking for additional support and involvement. If you wish to be considered for the committee please contact our Secretary either direct or via the website. CONTACTS WITH MMPAMMPA WEBSITE - www.mmpa.org.uk
FIRST GREAT WESTERN CUSTOMER PANELThe First Great Western Customer Panel receives regular input —correspondence is dealt with as part of normal activity of FGW Customer Relations Department, with relevant responses referred to panel members. Clerical activity is coordinated through FGW Customer Relations office. Contact - email : customer.panel@firstgroup.com
The Customer Panel acts as an interface between FGW and customers. Do you have an interest in rail travel - not necessarily as a daily user? Panel co-ordinators are looking to strengthen local input into the Panel. If you would like to know more about the Customer Panel please contact Customer Services at Milford House, 1 Milford Street, Swindon SN1 1HL (lesley.colman@firstgroup.com). MEMBERSHIP MATTERSThe time is almost upon us to renew your annual subscriptions! Thanks to all of those who have supported us during the past year and the committee hopes it can rely on your continued support for the forthcoming year. A special thank you goes to all those members who added a donation to their subscriptions - it really is most generous, and much appreciated. A warm welcome is extended to all those who have joined us during the past year. As you are aware, we had to adjust the rates in 2005, but I am pleased to say that they are once more being held at the current level until at least 2008. Your membership is becoming more important than ever. As you are aware, FGW has been badly under-performing, especially since the timetable change last December. We need to see a vast improvement in current service levels, particularly to London, both in peak times and off peak. Your committee will do all it can to ensure we get the best deals possible for commuters and travellers within our area, but we must have your support and backing. So, PLEASE renew NOW while it is fresh in your mind and help us to reduce admin costs, reminders are very costly! So, grab that chequebook - it really is still good value for money and you can have your say on YOUR local transport systems! Thank you in advance for your co-operation. The membership year runs from 1st April to 31st March, so subscriptions for the year 2007/2008 fall due on 1st April 2007. These may be paid in person at the AGM on Friday 23rd March, or to me by post to the address below. Please complete the attached subscription form and return to the MMPA Secretary, either by post or in person at the AGM (see notes below). DON’T FORGET! AGM at Bourne End Community Centre on Friday 23rd March 2007 at 20:00. We also now have a website at www.mmpa.org.uk. Well worth a look! MEMBERSHIP NOTES FOR YOUR GUIDANCE AND INFORMATION:
IMPORTANT If you pay by standing order, please check with your Bank to ensure that you are paying the correct rate. Thank you for your co-operation. SUBSCRIPTION / RENEWAL FORM(deleted from the online version) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGFRIDAY 23rd March 2007BOURNE END COMMUNITY CENTRE(small hall) 20:00 Meet representatives of local transport management
YOUR OPINIONS MAKES THESE MEETINGS A SUCCESSWe look forward to meeting you This meeting is open to both members and non-members |
