Network Rail says it is working hard to get the line between Barnstaple and Exeter re-opened.

A passenger group that fights for improved services and a better deal for rail users is urging residents to join their group.

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ALRUG, the Avocet Line Rail Users Group, is five years old and in that time has helped to double the amount of Sunday services, fought for improved platform and information services and helped the line achieve Community Rail status.

In doing so, the group has earned the respect of the railway industry, local government and passengers.

But subscription renewals for the year 2012 -2013 fell well short of what they had hoped for.

Having achieved 219 paid up members by the end of 2011/2012 they have dropped back to just 186 as of the beginning of last month.

Gerry Hurfurt, membership secretary, said: “A big percentage of those who have not renewed, joined at the time of our 150th anniversary celebrations and were perhaps swept along by the tide of excitement.

“(But)… it is becoming clear that we now have a very solid hard core of members who have belonged to the group from the early days.

“What is enormously encouraging is that more of you are volunteering to give your time to help ALRUG in a number of ways.

“I do appeal to you all, yet again… to join ALRUG; all of you reading this know how important it is.”