MORE than 700 people have signed a petition calling for better evening rail links from March to Cambridge.

The petition, which demands improved train services and extended operating hours at weekends, was distributed throughout schools, community groups and shops.

It was formally presented by MP Steve Barclay to parliament on Tuesday.

The last direct weekend service to March leaves Cambridge at 9pm, making it difficult for March residents to go out in Cambridge and make it home that night.

Mr Barclay has requested the suggested improvements to services feature in the Greater Anglia rail franchise scheduled for 2016.

He said: “I am delighted to present this petition to parliament. It is a great example of the community coming together to call for better transport links which would greatly benefit local residents by allowing them to enjoy an evening out in Cambridge.

“It is important that residents’ access to cultural and leisure opportunities in Cambridge is not restricted by inconvenient train services. I will be pushing for the petition to be included in the plans for the franchise agreement which is up for renewal in 2016.”