Sir, While I respect the views of Dr Llewellyn (letter, June 22) regarding the benefits of trams over railways, he omitted to mention one important fact about the Guildford-Horsham railway line. Today the disused track in question forms part of the “Downs Link” providing an essential footpath and bridleway system connecting Guildford with Shoreham on the South Coast. It is also the link between the North Downs Way and the Pilgrims Way to the north and newly opened South Downs National Park This route already serves many people: ramblers, horseriders, cyclists, nature lovers, dog walkers, etc, and it is to be hoped that it may continue to do so. There are precious few places away from traffic and built-up areas for these pursuits where safety and peace can be assured and this is among the most beautiful in the South East. Originally earmarked for closure in the Beeching report of 1963, the line finally closed in 1965 after local pressure failed to secure a continued rail service. The people were ignored then and bureaucracy and greed had their way. But local people adapted to the change and we have seen the creation of something worth preserving. I think it is an appropriate time to ask: should bureaucracy and greed be allowed to change our lives yet again?

John Fox-Smythe

Horsham, W Sussex

Explore Letters

• Feedback