I TOOK the train to an appointment in Blackpool this week from Bolton's Trinity Street Station.

It cost £8.80, was late both ways and on the return journey both toilets were out of order. This caused an elderly man from Congleton who sat opposite me to grumble bitterly for most of the journey, with rail staff conspicuous by their absence.

Meanwhile, the Government insists that all is well with the trains' system and more of us should use public transport. Dream on.