I have been a critic of the forum member who started this thread in the past. Resident in the Portsmouth area he seems to proclaim himself as a peoples champion and is getting involved in issues away from his home ground. Pilning, Severn Beach Line, Ashchurch just to name a few.
Time for an update to my "introductions and chat" post , I think.
I co - organise Campaign Against New Beeching Report (
CANBER▸ ) which is a confederation of campaigning groups and individuals , united in the aim of preventing the closure of lines and stations , and securing / developing their future role as part of the rail network of the United Kingdom.
From humble beginnings in February 2006 , the confederation membership now consists of 13 campaign groups and 32 campaigning individuals. Several other such groups and individuals fully support us but , for varying reasons , wish to remain anonymous.
Not bad going , I would suggest , for a campaign whose co - organiser was recently accused of poking "your beak into matters which should be of no concern of yours."
Have we had any successes?
On our own , no , but we have helped those on the ground acheive the following :
- Averting the closure of Ardwick , Denton and Reddish South stations.
- Reducing planned services cuts at Dilton Marsh , Ivybridge , Saltash and Severn Tunnel Junction stations.
- Persuading Bristol City Council to treat a 40 minute frequency service on the Severn Beach Line as an urgent priority.
Dont just take my "opportunist" word for it. Ask the campaigning groups and individuals involved.
They are all members of the CANBER confederation.
Of course , there are several outstanding issues that we would like to see resolved. To find out more about these , visit our website (link below.)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/actionnetwork/G1517Despite what martyjon may think , I am proud of what I do , and you wont find me apologising for any of it.
On a more personal note , I am due to marry a wonderful woman by the name of Nicki in May 2008 , and grahame has kindly consented to be my best man. Global Moderator Nick Field will also be in attendance , and it will be great to have two of the several people who have supported my efforts from the outset at my wedding.
Finally , martyjon seems concerned that I dont spend more time on issues closer to where I live. I am happy to inform him that this is not the case , and I fully support the no450 Campaign , which aims to get more appropriate trains on Portsmouth - London Waterloo services (link below.)
http://www.no450.co.uk/I hope that the above helps to clear up any confusion.