Campaign to reopen stations grows

Over 260 people got involved on social media by liking, sharing, retweeting and commenting on our posts about the campaign with the overwhelming majority backing the campaign.

Lord Foulkes of Cumnock has already expressed an interest in backing the campaign and Cumnock MSP Jeane Freeman has said she would back any move to improve train services in the area.

The Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP said: “I fully support any improvement to the Dumfries – Kilmarnock – Glasgow line, I am particularly keen to see an increased frequency of trains use the line serving New Cumnock and Auchinleck and have raised these matters with the Transport Minister.

“It is my understanding that East Ayrshire Council have prepared a bid for the Local Rail Development Fund from the Scottish Government and they have my full backing in this.”

Peter Black, founder of Re-open Cumnock Railway Station, said: “We are delighted to see the level of support that our campaign is attracting, it is absolutely clear that the local community believes it is time to reconnect Cumnock to the rail map.

“We have received many messages of support from across the community and we are grateful for each and every one of them.

“This is a town of great potential, but it is being held back by the weight of previous poor decision and we hope East Ayrshire Council help correct this.”

On Facebook and Twitter, we asked our readers if Cumnock should have a station.

Commenting, Carol Caldow said: “Auchinleck and New Cumnock are very busy stations but there are not nearly enough trains.”

Nazia Mukhtar Asar agreed, adding: “Yes, definitely and more regular trains too.”

Michelle Bell said: “This would be great for Cumnock. It would open up a lot more job opportunities.”

Carol Rae summed up the feeling of local residents when she commented: “Brilliant idea.

“ This would get my backing.”

Cheryl Samson also added that other towns needed to be reconnecting, stating: “Yes! Mauchline needs one as well.”