THREE East Lancashire railway stations will get makeovers in a bid to protect the long-term future of the area's train services.

Studies into how Colne, Rishton and Rosegrove stations on the Blackburn to Colne line can be improved were launched by Lancashire County Council.

The move follows the success of schemes at Church and Oswaldtwistle stations, resulting in a rise in passengers and fall in anti-social behaviour.

A public address system and CCTV cameras were installed, allowing staff at manned stations to give out travel information and let troublemakers know they are being watched, along with new seats and anti-crime measures such as vegetation pruning.

Richard Watts, railways officer for the county council, said: "The improvements included better waiting shelters and lighting and we have seen a five per cent rise in passengers.

"It is now planned to undertake a design study at three stations to see if any of the benefits at Church and Oswaldtwistle can be adopted there. We also want to look at potential community support."

Along the Ribble Valley line -- between Blackburn and Clitheroe -- volunteer groups maintain village stations, making floral displays and report problems.

Plans were also being drawn up for a community rail partnership, which would bid for Government cash to improve stations, promote services, introduce discounted ticketing and demand better standards of rolling stock.

A report by the East Lancashire Partnership said the poor quality of trains and poor waiting facilities were the main reasons why commuters choose to continue using their cars.

Mr Watts added: "We held workshops to find out what people want and one of their biggest concerns on the East Lancashire line was the condition of the smaller stations.

"A number of people at the meetings expressed interest in adopting their local railway station in the same way as has been done on the Ribble Valley line."

The reports will be completed in two months when detailed presentations on the work will be given.