THE success of this year’s Sunday Rover rail service connecting Okehampton to Exeter ‘definitely strengthens’ the argument for a regular service according to campaigners hoping to see full-time services return.

When the service started up for the summer back in May, residents were urged to make use of the train to prove the desire and need for a full time rail service for Okehampton.

At a recent meeting of OkeRail, a group bringing together local authorities and community groups with an effort to promote and fight for the return of a regular passenger rail service between Okehampton and Exeter by the end of 2017, those in attendance spoke of the Sunday Rover’s popularity so far in 2016.

OkeRail chairman Mike Davies said: ‘The service had operated well so far with very rare delays and demand exceeding capacity for both regular passengers and cyclists.’

Central Devon MP Mel Stride, who attended the meeting, said: ‘I have long argued that re-introducing a passenger rail service between Exeter and Plymouth via Okehampton and Crediton would provide many thousands of residents in and around Okehampton with a hugely valuable service, boost the local economy and crucially provide a second route into Devon and Cornwall.

‘This is essential for the economy of the whole region, should there be future problems with the Dawlish line as there have been in the past due to flooding.

‘Securing government investment in the line was never going to be easy but things are certainly progressing and the success of the Sunday service definitely strengthens the argument for a permanent regular service to return here.’

OkeRail member Dr Michael Ireland said: ‘It is essential we keep campaigning on this issue and it was very good to catch up with Mel today and discuss the progress we are making. Our forum’s next meeting is on September 15. For more information please contact me on 01837 659100.’