IN 1938, the Mallard A4 steam engine broke the world record for the fastest steam engine with a speed of 125.88mph (Echo, Feb 8). In fact, all 35 of the A4 engines were capable of speeds in excess of 100mph.

In the early 1960s, all but six were sold to scrap metal dealers or just broken down for scrap.

So, although we had the capability to reach high speeds back in the 1960s, no one seemed to care or to want to go on to develop superfast rail travel.

Since it will be at least 2040 before we in the North-East have the advantage of High Speed 2, is it worth spending £50bn-plus on?

If, as they say, climate change is partly the cause of the current severe conditions, will we ever be able to achieve our aims of faster rail travel?

But also, the way people work may change so much that the need for speed, to save 30 minutes on their journey times, is not that important. In fact, £50bn seems a lot to save 30 minutes.

JM Gowland, Heighington.