All fair points but you seem to be confusing one or two.

I understand the disabled angle - I am no authority on this so will not comment for fear of coming across as a total  fool.

However, you make a lot of statements as though they are final.

Yes, Japan has a better rail service - you almost answered the question - it's all down to comitment, government policy and finance.

As I mentioned earlier - no one in this country is prepared to put in the multi-billions required.

There are also a lot of cultural differences that need taking into account.

I'm not from your neck of the woods but are you telling me your only choice of rail travel is down to one company?

I find that very surprising!

This may seem a trivial point but you state things like 'trains are pretty much the only way to get around' I have to comment.

You don't drive - why not take lessons? Even if it's only to reach a station where the on-board services are of a higher service.

Surely there are bus operators competing with the train services? Maybe a tad slower that the train but, still, it's another option.

As ever, whinge to your hearts content - I have no problem with that. Your money - your sub-standard service but it might be an idea to aim it at those that can change things.

To get back to my original point - Virgin losing the XC contract may seem pleasing at first (pun not intended) but, on a personal level it will devastate the lives of a few friends.

I'm trying to put things into context - this isn't a personal attack