I AM writing as I am concerned that trains are still overcrowded and to also make it common knowledge to readers that the railway companies are proposing to get rid of guards.

Can you imagine what the trains will be like without another person on the train who knows what is happening and understands the severity of overcrowding.

All the railway unions wish to re-nationalise the railways but private companies only think about profits for shareholders.

Remember, the railway is a public service, not a profit making business. Do you think the companies are better than British Rail, I don't think so, or ask the commuters who travel day after day on crowded trains, and pay extortionate ticket prices, and now they don't want them to have any communication, or a person to give advice in an emergency by removing the guards.

Douglas Oxer

Gainford Walk

Bolton