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Trains running through Shropshire which were scrapped and replaced with buses could be reinstated next year, according to the MP for North Shropshire.

Owen Paterson is pressing for a meeting with the Welsh Government after receiving a "strong hint" that the affected service could be reinstated in May.

A new timetable came into effect on Monday and saw the introduction of a Transport for Wales (TfW) express service between Cardiff and Holyhead.

To achieve the journey in four-and-a-half hours, the train now only be stops at key stations along the route, including Ludlow, Shrewsbury and Wrexham, but not the smaller stations in between.

A stopping train has been taken out of service to facilitate the express train; a move which has angered passengers travelling to and from the smaller stations affected, including Craven Arms, Church Stretton, Gobowen, Chirk and Ruabon.

To mitigate the impact on rural passengers, TfW announced a rail replacement bus to and from Shrewsbury.

Passenger groups expressed their anger at the move, saying it discriminates against cyclists, wheelchair users and people with prams and pushchairs, who may not be able to use a bus as easily.