Two members of the Leeds, Lancaster and Morecambe Community Rail Partnership are to meet Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin.

Richard Rollins, chairman, and Gerald Townson, director responsible for station development, will outline the partnership’s hopes and concerns ahead of a new franchise for the line being awarded.

The news was revealed at the annual general meeting of Lancaster and Skipton Rail User Group at Bentham Town Hall.

LASRUG co-chairman Hugh Turner reported that the Friends of Bentham Station had been a great success and it was hoped similar groups could be formed at other stations.

"The raising of two speed restrictions, at Eldroth and Settle Junction, had improved timekeeping and a new car park had been opened at Gargrave, thanks to the efforts of the parish council.

"However, it was frustrating the group’s efforts to secure the provision of a shelter on the westbound platform at Giggleswick station had still not borne fruit.

Membership secretary Jack Warbrick reported that membership was now more than 120, the highest level ever.

A presentation was made to retiring secretary Wendy Smith in recognition of her hard work.

Guest speaker was Drew Haley, client and stakeholder manager of Northern Rail. He advocated longer concessions for operating companies, a cap on their profits, a single unified livery for trains to reduce costs, less control by the Department for Tran-sport and integration of track and stations.