THERE needs to be a dramatically improved service between Worcestershire and London as part of a shake-up of which rail firm will run services, says a county MP.

Harriett Baldwin has also urged the Government to take a look at proposals for a Worcester Parkway station at Norton again.

The Government is asking passengers what they want from the new Great Western rail franchise, which will govern train services between Hereford and London.

The consultation, which runs until March, will help form the contract offered to rail operators who want to bid to run the franchise.

It is currently run by First Great Western.

Mrs Baldwin has posted her response to the consultation online as well as sending a copy to Transport Minister Theresa Villiers.

The West Worcestershire MP said: “An improved train connection with London is vital to the future prosperity of the county.

“I have also asked the department to look again at the proposals for Worcester Parkway, which has now been under discussion for more than two decades without any clear progress.

“With our motorways full beyond capacity it is vital that our trains offer a viable alternative to the car.

“I am also keen to reduce the number of people from the county who have to drive to Birmingham, Warwick or even Newport to get on a fast train to London by offering them a speedy reliable local alternative.

“I will continue to press the case at the department and in the House of Commons for a long-overdue 21st Century train service for Worcestershire people.”