PUBLIC transport champions are hoping for Sunday trains serving Atherton.

Local train operating company First North Western has indicated that it could provide trains to run the service, but would require outside funding.

So Wardley Public Transport Users Group has agreed to launch a bid for funding to introduce a Sunday train service for Atherton, Walkden, Swinton and other stations between Wigan and Manchester which currently have no Sunday service.

Yesterday (Wednesday) group representatives discussed their bid with Paul Watson, General Manager of First North Western.

Group secretary Robin Polack, who used to live in Leigh and taught at St Mary's High, Astley, said: "A service would enable local people to travel quickly and comfortably into Manchester and Wigan on Sundays as they do the rest of the week and connect into the National Rail system. Ideally WPTUG would like the Sunday trains to run through to Southport.

"The SRA will need to be convinced that the service would be well used and WPTUG is keen to show this. Anyone who would use the service is encouraged to contact the Secretary on 0161-728-6091 (evenings), 07774-109281 (mobile) or by email: WPTUG@yahoo.co.uk."

Group chairman Ivor Zott added: "The implementation of the scheme would have considerable environmental advantages, allowing families to leave the car at home for their Sunday shopping and leisure trips".