RIBBLE Valley Council’s economic development committee has officially backed stepping up the campaign to boost rail links to the borough.

It agreed to push for half-hourly or better all-day passenger service between Manchester and Blackburn to be extended to Clitheroe currently served by 50 per cent fewer trains..

The committee also agreed to formally press for the restoration of services between Clitheroe and Hellifield.

It has has also written a formal letter to Lancashire County Council objecting to its proposed closure of the ticket and timetable point at the Clitheroe bus/rail interchange.

Council leader Ken Hind said: “The extension and improvement of local rail services will bring more visitors to Ribble Valley, enhance employment and economic development and take cars off our congested roads.”

Marjorie Birch, chairman of Ribble Valley Rail, said: “We are excited by any plan to improve rail services in the borough.

“We certainly need more trains and fewer cancellations between Clitheroe and Manchester and look forward to working with the council on this issue.”