TUBE bosses have dismissed fears that Chesham's underground link could be scrapped at a crisis meeting to discuss recent cuts to services.

After a meeting between London Underground Limited (LUL) and Chesham Town Council on Wednesday, councillors claim they were told that such plans were totally unfounded.

Members also said LUL bosses had explained that limited resources were to blame for a lack of consultation before two hourly services from Amersham were scrapped in May.

Last week, the Free Press reported that Chesham Town Council was to organise a public meeting with LUL chiefs with the backing of Chesham and Amersham MP Cheryl Gillan, rail users and neighbouring local authorities. But LUL suggested a private meeting with the council.

Town councillor Chris Spruytenburg said after the meeting: "They [LUL] know we want to be consulted more. They admitted they didn't consult very well on the new timetable."

But Mrs Gillan, not involved with the meeting, was not impressed.

The Tory MP, who has written to LUL bosses asking for an update on their performance, said: "Quite frankly they [LUL] have not taken into account any of the views of the public."

Chesham Mayor Cllr Tony Reed, who chaired the meeting, said it was up to Chesham to make a lot of noise to get an improved service. He said: "I hope our guests tonight take our concerns on-board."

A spokesman for London Underground would not discuss details of the private meeting but said: "The meeting was positive and constructive. Chesham Town Council have confirmed to London Underground that there is no longer the requirement for a public meeting."

He said fears the Chesham branch of the Line could be scrapped were "absolutely unfounded".