First said it was committed to the branch lines

First Great Western has suspended trains on the St Ives and Looe branch lines so carriages can be used on other services in Bristol.

Campaigners said it was effectively a cutback in services. The move has also been criticised by Cornwall County Council and St Ives MP Andrew George.

First Great Western said the disruption would only be for one week.

'No consultation'

The company said in a statement: "The rolling stock concerned has been redeployed to minimise shortages in the network.

"We are confident the additional engineering measures we are taking to address the issues will resolve the current situation.

"First Great Western confirms its long term commitment to these branch lines."

It comes less than a year after it took over all branch lines, a month after cuts in services, and a week after increased fares.

Matt McTaggart from the county council said the decision was taken without any consultation.