Jonathan Todd

Eric Martlew, the outgoing MP for Carlisle and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for the West Coast Mainline, was welcomed to Oxenholme train station last week by Jonathan Todd, Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Westmorland and Lonsdale.

Mr Martlew is backing Mr Todd’s campaign to make sure that Oxenholme is a high speed rail stop.

Mr Martlew said:

“Having led the campaign in parliament for the high speed line, I know that the Labour government’s proposals offer the only chance of getting a high speed rail stop in Cumbria. The Tories want the high speed route to turn right at Manchester and go to Leeds. I don’t think it is realistic for every high speed train to Edinburgh or Glasgow to stop at Oxenholme, but there is a very strong case for some trains to make this stop.”

Mr Todd said:

“It was great to welcome Eric to Oxenholme. He is an authority on rail matters and a big hitter. It is excellent to have his backing for a high speed rail stop at Oxenholme.

“This stop would reduce travel times for firms and workers in Westmorland and Lonsdale. It would also make it easier for tourists to reach the area.

“So, it would be a boost to our economic prospects, and it would make it easier for locals to enjoy trips away and holidays. These are major benefits to locals that only Labour government will bring to Cumbria.”