Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant praises efforts of Friends of the Far North Line
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TIRELESS efforts by campaigners to promote and protect rail services on the Far North Line have been hailed by an MSP as they mark their 25th anniversary.
The Friends of the Far North Line (FoFNL) were set up in 1994 to campaign for better services and reduced journey times on the Wick to Inverness line. They also support rail links with Kyle.
Highlands and Islands Labour MSP, Rhoda Grant, praised the group for working “tirelessly” to keep the economic and social value of the railway line in the public eye and has lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating them.
“FoFNL’s members have shown true dedication, often taking rail companies and politicians to task in order to save and develop this line for the future, both for the passengers who rely on it and for freight,” said Mrs Grant, who is also the group’s vice president.
“We tend to forget that people really care about their railway but turning that care into a long-lasting campaign is something to be proud of and something to celebrate.
“I hope that the Scottish Government will give FoFNL the ‘gift’ of the Lentran Loop – reinstating a dual stretch of track north of Inverness to remove congestion on the railway and enable more trains to be run as well as cutting delays.
“It has long been on FoFNL’s wish list and I hope that it comes to fruition soon. It would be a fitting tribute to these stalwart campaigners and I will continue to press the Government on this.”
Meanwhile, the FoFNL has just published a 76-page illustrated volume "FoFNL 25", marking the 25 years with stories and memories, highlighting its fight to upgrade the line and reduce journey times on the Caithness/Inverness service.
The booklet sets out the group’s policies, how it sees the future of railways north of Perth, especially the Far North Line, as well as celebrating the people who have campaigned down the years and those who care for stations along the route.
For more information on the group visit www.fofnl.org.uk
- FoFNL 25 is available direct from the FoFNL website, priced £5.
