Vive le TGV
Sir: I was surprised to read about the vexations of Ross Clark on the TGV (‘Train à Grande Vexation’, 7 August). My experiences on this train have always been excellent. Last winter I was able to buy a return ticket between London and Avignon for only £110. Changing trains in Lille was perfectly easy, as the platforms were adjacent. And I find it a particular blessing that passengers are not allowed to use mobile telephones in the carriages.
Rail passengers are far more likely to encounter problems in France when they are using ordinary trains, particularly those travelling from east to west or vice versa. It is as well for Ross Clark’s temper that he has never been stuck for two hours at a station along the lines of the legendary Farfouilly-les-oies. Then he might have discovered the full measure of French indifference.
Marie-Christine Bellando
London W11
Sir: Readers should not be put off travelling on the marvellous TGV by Ross Clark’s one bad experience.
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