TRAIN operator First Great Western has announced it is almost doubling the number of services running between Gloucestershire and London Paddington this summer.

The company has also met with Wessex Trains to discuss a partnership to provide additional weekday services between Swindon and Chelt- enham and Gloucestershire.

Edith Rodgers, First Great Western's customer services director, said: "Last summer we moved to add extra shuttle services between Swindon and Gloucestershire when it was clear the level of service was not enough. This is a clear illustration of our commitment to the area."

First Great Western currently runs ten services each weekday between the two stations, but that will increase to 17 from Monday, May 19.

The improvements will mean there is a service every two hours for most of the day and more regularly at peak times.

Ms Rodgers added: "This means customers in Chelt-enham, Gloucestershire and the Stroud Valley will have more direct services to London Paddington than ever before."

The changes will provide an additional 2,000 seats every weekday.