VIRGIN Trains' idea of sending passengers' luggage by road (October 13) is not such a new one.
"Luggage in Advance" was a service provided by the railways for very many years. In 1964 luggage could be sent between any stations in Britain for 2s 9d collection and carriage or 5s 6d collection, carriage and delivery.
I am not sure the Virgin spokesman's impression that luggage today is bigger and greater in quantity is entirely accurate.
Old-fashioned rigid rectangular suitcases were much bulkier while trunks, portmanteaux, hat-boxes and baskets were often taken - but on proper trains there was accommodation for them in the guard's van.
Modern trains are so cramped that almost any luggage becomes an inconvenience.
Despite being a seasoned rail traveller, I have not yet sampled a journey in one of Virgin's Voyagers.
I have, however, looked inside one then elected to travel in a decent car.
Michael Blakemore,
De Grey Terrace,
Avenue Road, York.
Updated: 11:09 Friday, October 17, 2003
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