Even if planned expenditure is realised, it will take many years to provide anything like the European rail system.

Why replace the slam-door trains at the moment? These trains were very well built (in Britain) and reportedly have the most reliable electric motors. The seats are (or were) comfortable with high backs for relaxation.

They need to be thoroughly steam cleaned inside and out and the seats need re-upholstering. Some of the scratched plastic windows need replacement. Overall, these reliable old trains are more comfortable than the modern rolling stock. The seats are close together on the new trains and they have no headrests.

I have never heard of anybody having an accident because of the slam doors. There must have been some but it does not seem to be a major problem.

If the money earmarked for new trains was ploughed into the track, stations and automatic train protection, perhaps we might have the best of both worlds.

-Mike Sherlock, Mountbatten Drive, Eastbourne