I’ve always been a fan of ELO (Electric Light Orchestra).

‘Mr Blue Sky’ is my all-time favourite but a close second would be ‘Last Train to London’.

I’ve been singing it a lot lately because the last train journey I took was from Cambridge to home via London. Alright, it wasn’t the last train of the day and the GTR direct service went through London rather than to it but this isn’t the time – unusually for me – to be pedantic!

It’s now more than a month since I travelled by train. Rail travel across the network is reported to be down 90% following the advice to stay at home for those people who aren’t key workers.

My trip to Cambridge was mostly pleasure and partly business. I took the opportunity to film a few departures and arrivals at Cambridge station (as I always do if I have time).

I was also struck by the conversion of the Old Ticket Office at the station into a pub/snack bar. It seemed a sympathetic use of the building and a reminder of the railway history of the area.

There were already indications that life was changing with the coffee shops no longer taking reusable cups (although still offering a discount). I also bumped elbows rather than shook hands with people I met and I sat apart from them on public transport as best I could.

I miss the freedom, excitement and sense of adventure that train travel brings.

So when the blue skies return and the transport system does fully resume, you can guarantee that I’ll be on the First Train to London.

You’ll recognise me because I’ll be the one singing away to slightly altered ELO lyrics.