A NEW rail operator takes over the running of trains from Bournemouth into the capital this weekend.

The South Western franchise has been operated by South West Trains for the past 20 years, but from Sunday it will be run by First MTR South Western Limited.

Andy Mellors, of First MTR South Western Limited, has already moved to quell passenger concerns, after news that the number of direct train services between Weymouth and London Waterloo could be halved

Instead of a two hourly service from Weymouth to Waterloo, there will be one hourly fast service to Waterloo plus a local stopping service from Weymouth to Portsmouth, which Mr Mellors said would be best for helping to deliver local economic growth.

Mr Mellors has also hinted that stops at smaller stations along the Weymouth to London Waterloo line could cease as part of the plans.

He said: “We will make some proposals where stops are planning to be removed.”

These proposals will be included as part of a consultation on various changes the operator wishes to make to the franchise, which will start in September.

In terms of concern over trains running on schedule, Mr Mellors suggested that this issue would be at the top of the operator’s list of priorities, so as to “deliver the promised timetable.”

He said: “One of the very early priorities for my team will be on the operational performance.”

He added that among the perks First MTR South Western Limited would try to introduce would be more flexible season tickets for people who don’t have to commute five days a week.

It also hopes to introduce free Wifi at stations from next year.