BUSINESS leaders are being called on to support the campaign for increased investment in the West Coast rail line.

County council leader Louise Ellman called for the extra backing at a dinner for Lancashire's industrialists in Preston.

She said: "The announcement by Railtrack this week offered no guarantees that the North West would receive the investment it needs.

"The West Coast Main Line is a vital lifeline for jobs and businesses in the region and it is essential the franchises now being offered under privatisation bring the line up to the highest standards."

Coun Ellman added: "This vital lifeline has been grossly neglected, with promised investment over the past decade never materialising.

"As a result, the economy of the North West has been put at risk. I urge all Lancashire businesses to support our fight for the future of the West Coast main line."

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