February 8, 2001 12:27: IN 1800 and something, Sir Watkin devised and followed through a vision to create a fast, wide and efficient link between the Midlands and London.

That vision became the Great Central Railway (aka the Chiltern Line). Those who purchased homes beside this link should have read their history, for it is only they who now object to this line fulfilling its great purpose. It is only they who do not seek the purpose of the many; who cannot see that the reduction in the heavy loads travelling our highways will, in part, come about through the introduction of efficient rail links.

The demise of our nations' rail network is sad to behold. If we had TGV or ICE style links from London (and the Channel) to the Midlands and the North, we would have little need for a new terminal at London Airport; perhaps, indeed, if we still had a rail network, travel on our highways would be that much easier.

Where have we gone wrong? The demonic drive to privatise and to place profit above the welfare of the nation has left us devoid of manufacturing and a strong industrial base.

We are a nation devoid of moral worth, where our children cannot afford a new home, where teachers and many public servants are valued too low, where our hospitals are overcrowded and the price of a life is a balance sheet item.

A shame upon our public representatives and upon those whose triumph, has seen the Central Railway scheme meet its demise, for if the project is dead, it will bethe triumph of 'Nimbyism' over the common good.

Murray Harrold

Grassingham Road, Chalfont St Peter