ANY upgrade of the West Coast main line must include improved links to East Lancashire, transport ministers have been told.

Burnley MP Peter Pike raised the issue in the Commons and his Hyndburn Labour colleague Greg Pope has given him full backing.

Mr Pike asked Transport Minister Tony McNulty: "Do you agree that when users on the West Coast main line are consulted on the timetable for the upgraded route, it will be important to take into account links with local services at stations such as Preston which feed the West Coast main line from areas like East Lancashire?"

Mr McNulty replied: "The timetables that emerge will be rooted in the overall strategy for the West Coast main line, and part of that strategy includes how local services interface with the main line.

"However, I will ensure that your comments are passed on to the Strategic Rail Authority."

Afterwards Mr Pike said: "It's vital that is linked to improving the service on the East Lancs line.

Mr Pope said: "It's vital improvements to the East Lancashire line is linked with the upgrade."