Try

TEXT TO xxx NOSHOW TEXTMERGE
   Summary of application :<<+alltrim(xdesc)>>, included in file
    <<thisziph>> downloaded on <<dtoc(date())>>
    ...

   ******************************************** 
   * The above application contains :         *
   * Passenger records :<<+str(tnumber,10,0) >>  :         *)
   * Total fare  :<<str(tfare,10,0)>> pence            *
    ... etc

ENDTEXT

It works like a charm!
any foxprocommand works between the chevrons (<<>>)

Peter