ARCHIE Norman, Tory MP for Tunbridge Wells, is pressing is pressing Richard Bowker, chairman of the Strategic Rail Authority, for improved disabled access at the town's railway station.

He wants to know if train operator Connex has been successful in its bid to secure funding for re-instating a lift that has been out of service for the past 11 years.

Mr Norman said he had been assured by Connex chief executive Olivier Brousse that the improvements were a priority.

Mr Norman said: "Connex has kept to the SRA's timetable by submitting its bid in June, but it is still waiting for a response from the authority. It is ridiculous that a mainline station, such as Tunbridge Wells, should not provide easy access for mothers with pushchairs and disabled and elderly people."

Mr Norman said he hoped for an early reply from Mr Bowker.