Swindon-based rail operator First Great Western says it welcomes a new government strategy to improve rail services.

The Strategic Rail Authority has unveiled a draft Route Utilisation Strategy, which aims to help customers across the railway networks by providing more seats, regular interval services, better punctuality and shorter journey times.

Alison Forster, pictured, the managing director for First Great Western and sister company First Great Western Link said: "We are already using our capacity better, particularly with our major timetable overhaul last month and are pleased to have contributed to this special draft.

"Many of the improvements we would like to make cannot be implemented unilaterally and we are therefore pleased the SRA's strategy supports our ongoing work to enhance services."

Services currently operated by First Great Western, First Great Western Link and Wessex Trains will transfer to a new Greater Western franchise next year.

In December last year the timetables of First Great Western and First Great Western Link were overhauled to provide more services and better timings.