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Ipswich MP Jack Abbott demands action from train operator that runs no services in Suffolk

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Jack Abbott, MP for Ipswich, has written to train operator CrossCountry, demanding improvements to its train services despite the operator not running any services in Suffolk.

The big picture: Jack Abbott joined Transport Secretary Louise Haigh in criticising train operator CrossCountry's performance.

However, the MP seems to have overlooked a crucial detail: CrossCountry doesn't operate any services in Suffolk.

CrossCountry operates routes primarily in the Midlands, North of England, South and Scotland. Its nearest service to Ipswich is Cambridge, but it only runs to the Midlands and Stansted Airport.

CrossCountry routes
CrossCountry routesCrossCountry

What Labour said: Louise Haigh MP, Transport Secretary said of CrossCountry two days ago: “This is not the standard we expect, or passengers deserve, but this is the mess we’ve inherited, where our railways are understaffed and lurching from one crisis to the next.

“We insisted CrossCountry put on more services than their original plan, but the reduced timetable is certainly not satisfactory.

“CrossCountry is persistently one of the worst performing operators, with record delays, cancellations and consistent overcrowding. That is why I have also instigated a remedial plan - to improve services in the long run.

“There can be no excuse for this sort of dire service, and it will not be tolerated under this Government.”

Jack issued his own strongly-worded response: “For far too long, CrossCountry has let down passengers, and failed to provide the level of service that Ipswich deserves.

“Reliable train services are crucial to ensuring access to work, education and leisure opportunities across the East of England.

“I have asked for regular updates on the progress of CrossCountry’s remedial plan, and immediate mitigation factors.

“I will continue to work with the operator and the Department for Transport to ensure passengers in Ipswich get a better deal.”

Questioning the strength of his statement: Ipswich.co.uk immediately reached out to Jack's team, asking for clarification on what CrossCountry services affected Ipswich residents.

We were informed that "there are a number of constituents who use their East of England route who this will affect" and that "this is why Jack has written to CrossCountry." Although they "don’t have exact numbers."

Pushing a little harder: Unconvinced by the rationale, we questioned the motivation behind such a strong response but have yet to receive further comment.

Opinion

Why it matters: With the Towns Deal and Ipswich in the Premier League, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in our town.

While some will argue that the unknown number of Ipswich residents who regularly travel by train from Cambridge to the Midlands deserve representation, many others will dismiss it as either an embarrassing mistake from an MP who fought his election campaign based on his local knowledge or a blatant example of prioritising political point-scoring over genuine constituent needs.

I hope such conviction will be shown when addressing our town's many more pressing issues.

The bottom line: While train service improvements are a valid concern for Ipswich residents, Ipswich commuters might be better served if their MP focused on Greater Anglia, the operator of all the trains in our county.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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The 'everyday' drink driver: Suffolk Police target post-work pub trips

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

A month-long police campaign targeted "everyday" drink drivers who had "just a few" after-work drinks, with police confirming 160 people were arrested for being under the influence over Christmas.

Why it matters: The campaign targeted routine social drinking — like after-work pints or Christmas parties — led to a significant number of arrests, with 160 drivers caught under the influence during the festive period.

A man drinking a beer next to his car keys
A month-long police campaign targeted "everyday" drink drivers who have "just a few" after-work drinksGetty Images

By the numbers:

  • 2,366 vehicles stopped

  • 1,987 breath tests conducted

  • 379 drug wipes performed

  • 72 arrests for failed breath tests or test refusals

  • 88 arrests following positive drug wipes

  • 84% of offenders were male

  • 21% were under 25 — up from 14% last year

What they're saying: "There is a real need to fully understand the consequences of your actions. You could lose your licence, your income, your freedom and ultimately your life," Chief Inspector Vicky McParland of the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads & Armed Policing Team said.

The bigger picture: The month-long initiative, running from 1 December 2024 to 1 January 2025, targeted what police call the "everyday" drink driver — those who might have two or three pints at the pub after work or drive the morning after a Christmas party while still over the limit.

Between the lines: Suffolk's Police & Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore expressed particular concern about younger drivers, noting "This is a new generation of drivers who appear not have heeded the very clear messages about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs."

The bottom line: While the campaign focused on the festive period, police emphasize this is a year-round priority. Members of the public can report suspected drink or drug drivers anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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