The rage of the train

If one thing can unite Scots in these divided times, perhaps it is frustration with Scotrail. Anyone who requires to use trains on a regular basis will know that the rail operator provides a service which is to be endured rather than enjoyed. Every day, dozens of services are cancelled and commuters are frequently forced to squeeze together in hopelessly overcrowded carriages.

Time and again, Scotrail – currently run by Abellio – insists that it is working hard to improve the quality of its service. Time and again, passengers see no positive change.

Last year, Scotrail’s performance was the worst since records began.

We cannot say we were at all surprised by this revelation.

We are, however, surprised that the Scottish Government is not doing more to force Abellio to up its game.

But we have not seen action. Scotland’s rail service is a national disgrace. At a time when we need more people to be using public transport, Scotrail offers the most unappealing option If Abellio continues to run our trains as it has been doing, the Scotrail contract must be put back out to tender.