The gap between the platform and the train at Raynes Park station will not be reduced despite concern from commuters, some of who now avoid the station altogether.

Residents have contacted the Wimbledon Guardian in their droves, complaining about the gap which they say makes it almost “impossible” to board or alight from a train.

Many of those most affected are elderly, and some have reported falling and injuring themselves.

John Watson, 79, of Raynes Park wrote to the paper saying: ‘’The first time I saw this massive gap between the platform and the train, I couldn’t believe it.

“I just stood and looked. The train doors opened and the only handrail I could grab was about two foot away inside the carriage."

A Network Rail spokesman said the stepping distances at stations all over the network vary depending on a number of factors, including height and curvature of the platform and the type of train used.

He said the public had not raised the stepping distance at Raynes Park as a “particular issue” and there were no current plans to carry out any work to reduce it.

Rebuilding the platforms would cost a significant amount of money and result in large scale disruption for passengers, he said.

But passengers we spoke to at the station continued to be shocked by the gap.

Elizabeth Parker, 51, from Epsom, said: ‘’I did look at the gap and it did strike me as very big, it seemed even less secure than the tubes.

“They do say mind the gap but even so the gap is rather huge."

Grant Butcher, a supervisor for South West Trains, said he had been asked to help people on to trains, but added there is a ramp at platforms one and two which can be used if requested in advance.

He said: “If passengers get to the station in plenty of time they can ask for assistance downstairs and a member of staff will assist them all the way onto the train.

"They just need to ask."

To request assistance log on to southwesttrains.co.uk or call 0800 528 2100.

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