I AM glad that Mike Widger agrees that reinstatement of the Plymouth to Tavistock rail service would require a subsidy (Letters, May 18). How much and from whom? From local or national government presumably, which means poor old, over-taxed Joe Bloggins again. The operating subsidy would be much larger than he suggests if an adequate service was to be provided. It would require a one (or possibly a two) coach diesel unit to each terminus, Gunnislake and Tavistock. One train operating alternately to and from each destination would not cover the peak commuter period morning and evening which would be the main source of income. The present prospective user survey being conducted for the county council may provide figures upon which an operating subsidy can be estimated. But without encouraging figures and much more information the very desirable project will remain pie in the sky. Finally, Mr Widger?s obscure reference to ?concreting over the Bere Peninsula? is puzzling. Perhaps he envisages a dual carriageway or a six-lane motorway into the city? G Kirkpatrick Parkwood Road Tavistock
