A GROUP of friends has launched a petition, calling for a better evening train service for March.

They want late trains from Cambridge to be re-routed, so Fenland residents can enjoy an evening in the city, and then take the train home.

Petition organisers, Amelia Nicholson from Wimblington, said: “The last train from Cambridge to March currently leaves at about 9pm, so anyone wanting to go to the theatre or other evening events in Cambridge cannot use the train.

“I would like to say also that our petition is not about criticism and attacking people, we just wish to open a dialogue about something that is really important to a lot of people living in the area.

“Originally, we thought there were trains going through March station after 9.30pm. In fact we now know these trains are rerouted via London so it is a big ask to have more trains, but we believe it is not unreasonable, as presently they do not serve our needs. We are setting out to prove there is a real need and demand for more trains.”

The petition was launched just days after Fenland District Council secured �40,000 to launch a 20-year bid to improve rail stations and connections.

Since the group started their campaign, other residents have also begun pressing for a better train service to and from Stansted.

Amelia explained: “At present, these trains very rarely co-inside with Easy Jet & Ryan Air flights, which makes journeys to Stansted much more expensive.

“According to Fenland District Council in the last 10 years Fenland experienced a higher percentage population growth than the East of England region and England overall. So the demand for better public transport will only get greater.”

Another campaigner is Charlie Boughton, the owner of the Field End Water Caravan Park in Doddington. Charlie said: “During the day, we cannot complain about the service, but we need more evening trains. Even if it was just on a Friday and Saturday, that would be better than nothing at all.”

Charlie, who serves on the Tourism and Cultural Partnership Committee, will welcome visitors to sign the petition at his caravan park. There will also be two petitions available to sign in March, at the library and Elite hairdressers in Elwyn Road.

The petition will be sent to Wendy Otter, the Transport Officer for Fenland District Council, with copies going to MP Stephen Barclay, East Midland Trains, and Cross Country Rail.