I AM writing to express my concern at the viewpoints put forward as evidence by the Network Rail representative, Mike Gallop, at the recent Okehampton Rail Resilience meeting.    Mr Gallop gave the first presentation at the meeting and after explaining how the repairs to the Dawlish section of the coastal route had been executed, proceeded to discuss the alternative routes.     His view to the delegates was that the Okehampton Option, as it is referred to, was not tenable for the following reason: the journey time would take up to 45 minutes longer than the coastal route.    The impression given was that journey time was the key variable, not the line giving needed capacity in adverse weather or the wider economic benefits to west Devon and north Cornwall. Data prepared by the Peninsula Rail Group shows a journey time of approximately 58 minutes could be achieved between Exeter and Plymouth via Okehampton.  In response to a letter to the Okehampton Town Council (March 31) from the Under Secretary of State, Department of Transport, Mr Stephen Hammond MP, as chair of Destination Okehampton  (OTC working group), I am in process of convening meeting to prepare a business case for the 'Okehampton Option'.   The reaction to the views put forward at the Rail Resilience meeting were varied, but I think it safe to say that for those who attended to represent Okehampton, Tavistock and Bude, it was one of shock at the resistance to the 'Okehampton Option'. I am doubtful if the real case for the 'Okehampton Option' will ever be properly considered by the Network Rail Study Management Group, because it has no representation from  the areas of Devon and Cornwall that would derive benefits of economic regeneration from this complementary line.   My purpose in writing is to make readers aware of the erroneous evidence being used in the debate surrounding the fate of our line, and the long term ramifications for Okehampton and surrounding towns and villages.    All views expressed here are based on my observations from attending the meeting and not those of Okehampton Town Council. Dr Michael Ireland Okehampton town councillor/chair of the 'Destination Okehampton' working group