Campaigners are calling for a second train to run on a 160-year-old railway line in a bid to reduce waiting times for commuters.

Members of the Abbey Flyer Users’ Group have launched a crowdfunding campaign to highlight why they think there should be investment to enable a second train to run on the 6.5 mile railway line linking Watford Junction and St Albans Abbey stations, also known as the Abbey Line.

David Horton, chairman of the group, believes a second train will “significantly reduce” the time between trains from the present 40 minutes to potentially just 20 minutes.

As a result, the group is trying to raise £6,000 to cover the cost of researching the idea, as well as working out where the passing loop should be and the costs to build signalling and potentially a second platform at Bricket Wood station.

Mr Horton said: “We have the opportunity to demonstrate what we firmly believe to be the case - that there is a demand for a higher frequency service on the Abbey Line and it can be delivered cost-effectively.”

Richard Haywood, crowd funding campaign co-ordinator, added: “Although we are asking for money the support is equally important, the more interest we get the more people will listen to us and the more we can campaign for real improvements to be made.

“With the line being nearly 160 years old, what better way to celebrate than to bring the Abbey Line into the 21st century? However, we can only do this with your help.”

So far, the campaign already has pledges of support totalling nearly £2,000 from Abbey Flyer Users’ Group members as well as county councillors Sandy Walkington and Stephen Giles-Medhurst.

Cllr Walkington said: “This is the Cinderella railway line. With a bit of love and investment it could be transformed, delivering real benefits to one of the most congested corridors in Hertfordshire.

“I welcome anything which can unlock its potential.”

Cllr Giles-Medhurst added: “This is a key line that could greatly reduce congestion between Watford and St Albans and not only needs but deserves investment to ensure long term green travel routes are maintained.

“Anything to improve it is welcomed and should be supported."

Jane Fisher, director of mobilisation and transition for West Midlands Train Ltd, said: “We have exciting plans for the new franchise, with nearly £1bn of investment going into the network over the next nine years.

"We look forward to working with the Abbey Flyer Users’ Group to see how we can improve services on the Abbey Line.”

To find out more, donate or just to show your support, visit the campaign page: https://www.spacehive.com/abbeylineloop