I CAN understand Catherine Trafford-Smith's point of view (Letters, March 18) over the possible opening of the 'Southern' route from Exeter to Plymouth, however, there are a number of reasons why this should take place.

Firstly, whether one likes it or not, both Okehampton and Tavistock are increasing in size and population and it does not make sense for these two main towns to remain isolated from the main railway system, particularly when the old route used to link them and Bere Alston remains basically intact.

Secondly, Devon needs a second line, not only to deal with the increased passenger and freight traffic both now and in the future, but also because the Western line through Dawlish is increasingly susceptible to bad weather.

Thirdly, although figures of £100 million have been mooted there is no reason why a European grant cannot be applied for to reinstate the line. If they can find money for a cycle track, which is used for the pleasure of a few, we ought to be able to get a substantial amount towards reinstating something that will benefit the county. (After all, we, the British taxpayer put enough into Europe!).

Yes, there may have to be some houses demolished and some households nearby will be upset, but with increasing fuel prices and road congestion the railway may well be the answer to travel in the future.

Paul Mercer

Peter Tavy

I AM sorry to see that Mrs Trafford-Smith is so upset at the prospect of living next to a railway, and of railway blight and problems selling her house.

Our first house in Bristol had the main line to the north at the bottom of the small garden. We were not troubled by noise and sold the house in 48 hours! My parents lived in Surrey for 30 years with the main London-Horsham line a field away and very visible from the house. There was much more noise from Gatwick Airport (eight miles away) than from the trains, and the house sold very easily.

With regards to litter, all modern rolling stock has non-opening windows, so it is impossible to throw litter

Neither area could remotely be described as blighted by the railway. It was a major mistake to leave Tavistock without a railway in 1963 and the sooner the railway returns the better.

Bob Hodgson

Yelverton