RAIL services between Malvern and London should get better next year, thanks to track improvements in the Worcester area.

That's the message from Great Western Railways managing director Mark Hopwood to Link county councillor Paul Tuthill.

Cllr Tuthill wrote to Mr Hopwood asking him for clarification on the future of through trains between Gear Malvern and the Link and Worcester, and the implications of the newly installed "turn-back" siding at Henwick, just across the river from Worcester Foregate Street station.

Mr Hopwood said in this letter: "The Henwick turn-back will allow more opportunities to serve Worcester Foregate Street rather than terminating services at Worcester Shrub Hill."

He said that from January 2019, the 11 through trains per weekday between Malvern and London will be increased to 14, and there will be an hourly service - rising to half-hourly at peak times - as either through services or by changing at Worcester stations.

Cllr Tuthill said: "Overall I think this is very encouraging and is clearly dependent of the delivery of the new trains that are being brought into service during this year."

There are five services either way each weekday linking London with stations beyond Malvern, including Colwall and Ledbury, and it is not yet known if this will change.

This month, Great Western railways introduced its new Intercity Express Trains to the line serving Worcester, Malvern and Ledbury.

The new trains have up to 24 per cent more seating capacity than the High Speed Trains they replace, increased legroom and luggage space, and more tables, says the rail operating company.

He says that he is being supported by MP Harriett Baldwin who also very keen to see improved rail links, particularly over the Cotswold Line.