THE state of a Metrolink station is getting rush-hour commuters all steamed up.

Regular users of the tram network claim the Radcliffe station is an "eyesore".

Despite a number of complaints to transport bosses over the last two years, local people say the station is getting worse.

Now a user of the network who led a successful campaign to improve the old train service is set to take on transport chiefs.

Mrs Pat Mahon of Kent Drive, Bury, said: "The station is a complete disgrace. It's no wonder it attracts vandals and car thieves.

"I use the station because of the parking space, but every night I am scared that my car may have been stolen."

Some years ago Mrs Mahon led a campaign to improve the old train service by asking bosses to put more carriages on.

"Every morning I would pass a petition around the train and do the same in the evening. They had to take notice then.

"If nothing is done I will begin to do the same again," vowed Mrs Mahon.

The catalogue of complaints from commuters includes: the build-up of rubbish and litter; poor maintenance of trees and shrubs; poor security at the station; and the inadequate service provided in the morning for commuters who, says Mrs Mahon, are crammed into a single carriage.

Ironically, say protesters, Metrolink is a supporter of the "Going for Green" campaign.

A spokesperson for Metrolink said the car park was cleaned and maintained regularly. She added that a "works committee" would be established in the near future which would aim to improve the condition of the station further.

Metrolink says there are plans to have two extra trams running during peak periods by the end of this month.

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