IF you are thinking of going to Blackpool by train, don't.

Myself and friend (both senior citizens) arranged to go to Blackpool for a few days last week, and because I am troubled with travel sickness on coaches or cars decided that we would try the train.

For us, it was horrendous. We had booked a straight through journey, i.e. no changing platforms. Alas, this was definitely not to be.

When arriving at Preston an announcement came over the loud speaker (just what we could not distinguish) and everyone on the train got up and left. We followed wondering what was wrong.

On asking another passenger he said he did not hear the message clearly, just that we had to change platforms.

What a carry on. Can you imagine two old ladies with heavy suitcases struggling up and down platforms wondering what the blazes was going on.

We eventually arrived at Blackpool shattered. Thank goodness there was a taxi at the station door to relay us to our hotel.

Our few days there went very well indeed. The hotel was great and so was the weather.

Everything was rosy until we were half-way home.

Just before we arrived at Preston we heard a grating noise and the train came to a halt. After sitting for some time we got the instruction to leave the train and wait for another. Again, for us, a great struggle with suitcases etc.

Who said 'please use public transport'?

For me and friend, never again. As it was it took me 10 years to convince her that by taking this journey by train we were doing the right thing. Can you imagine what she said to me on arriving back home?

Mrs E CHEETHAM

Mealhouse Court

Atherton