FORTY years ago rail lines throughout the country were axed to save money in the biggest shake up in our transport system since the previous century.

Many of the closures soon proved short-sighted as population movement, the broadening of commuter belts and increased leisure time forced workers and visitors on to inadequate roads.

People had no alternative but to pile into their cars because in rural areas the railways were no longer there.

Our beauty spots and especially national park areas like the Lake District became clogged with traffic during much of the year and all planning had to focus on catering for cars.

Some lines in other parts of the country closed following Dr Beeching's report have been re-opened because the need for them was proved and the cash could be found.

Now campaigners are stepping up their fight to reinstate the Skipton to East Lancashire line so that people can journey direct to the Yorkshire Dales and walking country without having to use the roads.

Restoring the 12 to 15 mile link would pose some technical problems but the main obstacles are the need to win political support and "demonstrate the business case."

That business case has to be accepted by politicians as a long term one. The future prosperity of the Dales as an area of stunning natural beauty where people can live, work and visit depends on an efficient transport system.

The cost of achieving this just by using the roads will be enormous both financially and environmentally.

The importance of rail travel is also demonstrated today by the warning from East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce that further rail strikes planned for this week are harming our local economy.

This strike must be settled fast.