MANY disabled passengers using Newport train station are unaware of the free taxi service available to them when travelling from platform four.

The service was introduced by Network Rail as a goodwill gesture for passengers unable to get to the platform.

Newport Access Group, who represent disabled people in Newport, have received numerous calls from people who simply don't know the service is there.

Secretary for Newport Access Group, Wendy Ashton, said: "They (Network Rail) told us about it way back, but people in Newport were not given any information about it. I've had a number of phone calls from people in Newport and they didn't know about this free taxi."

As reported on this website on Friday, the service is an interim measure until lifts are installed at the new station development, but currently the only access to the platform is either via the footbridge or a lengthy walk through the car park on Godfrey Road, neither of which is suitable for disabled or elderly passengers or mums with pushchairs.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: "There is a help point on the platform and station staff to help people and point them in the right direction for the taxi service."

But Mrs Ashton believes more should be done to make affected passengers aware of the service, she said: "There should be posters in the railway station, people have got to know that these things are available to them."

Mrs Ashton added that Newport Access Group are due to have a meeting with Network Rail shortly and this issue is one that will be raised.

Arriva Trains, who are responsible for information in the station have said there are no plans to put up any posters informing passengers of the free taxi service.

A spokesperson for Arriva said: "We advise disabled passengers to book 24 hours in advance that they wish to travel so assistance can be arranged for them, members of staff will advise them of the taxi service.

"All front line staff are informed of the arrangements and for those who don't travel regulaly, staff will be able to make arrangements there and then."