LOCAL rail passengers are too often facing late train arrivals, says an MSP.

Mid Scotland and Fife MSP and Times columnist, Liz Smith, has raised concerns following ScotRail punctuality targets being missed at stations within her electoral region.

Often waiting passengers at the three local stations at Cowdenbeath, Lochgelly and Cardenden are faced with late arrivals, she said.

ScotRail services must arrive at stations within five minutes of their scheduled arrival 90.8% of the time, according to strict standards set by the Scottish Government.

Perth, Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Cardenden, Cowdenbeath and Crianlarich all failed to meet this target.

The figures relate to the country’s 73 terminal stations.

Commenting Liz Smith MSP said: “The recently released national passenger survey showed that Scotrail had made significant improvements in delivering better customer service, but ultimately delayed services undermine Abellio’s ability to satisfy travellers.

“Within Mid-Scotland and Fife there are stations like Perth, which narrowly missed the target, and others like Crianlarich that are miles behind meeting them.

“Scotrail must not rest of its laurels following the passenger survey and should strive to improve punctuality on their services across Mid-Scotland and Fife and at Cardenden and Cowdenbeath."