MP blows the whistle on station's lax security

Security at Sandy train station needs to be increased to deter attacks and vandalism.

That is according to the MP for North East Bedfordshire Alistair Burt who has raised concerns with First Capital Connect about problems at the station.

Recently faults with particular machines have led to difficulties for travellers and Mr Burt wants more to be done to protect the machines from being damaged.

He said: "I understand that determined efforts have been made to rob the ticket machines at Sandy Station, and this damage is taking some time to repair.

"I am told one machine will take nearly a month to repair, but I have stressed to First Capital Connect just how important it is to get it back in service as soon as possible.

"I have also urged First Capital Connect to move quicker to protect their machines with CCTV, and improved alarms linked to the police.

"This will both deter attacks, and may lead to successful prosecutions of those who attempt to vandalise or steal from the machines.

"I am well aware of how concerned passengers will be with this state of affairs, and I have left it very clear with First Capital Connect that they must do all in their power to ensure that those using the station are not inconvenienced."

A spokesman for FCC said: "CCTV will be added and be connected to our control centre in London that is manned 24 hours a day by staff and the British Transport Police.

"In addition, both machines are having significant security improvements installed including alarms."