"This failing rail service is affecting thousands daily and is not fit for purpose"

This is my letter to David Brown, managing director of Northern Rail: How would you expect my son to get home to Elsecar from Meadowhall, after finishing work at 6pm yesterday, when your company cancels two consecutive services, the 18.51 and the 19.45, due to staff shortages?

Were you expecting him to wait two hours for the next service? Your service is a shambles.

Luckily, he keeps a regular eye on your fictitious timetable and was allowed to leave early to catch the 17.48, but he is fortunate to have an understanding boss.

I expect a reply directly from you and not from your customer service manager, explaining why this has happened.I have also cced in my MP, the Sheffield Region Mayor, Dan Jarvis, BBC Look North and the Sheffield Star, as your constantly failing service is affecting thousands daily, including myself and my family and is clearly not suitable for purpose. You need to have your franchise withdrawn.I await your reply.

*Mr Brown has emailed Mr Downend and apologised to his son ‘because we clearly let him down’. For the full response, see The Star’s letters page tomorrow.