METROLINK users are being given the opportunity to help shape future improvements at their local stations.

The invitation comes as Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) undertakes a series of surveys at rail and Metrolink stations across Greater Manchester this month.

Metrolink passengers are being asked to fill out a short questionnaire asking about their journey patterns and the type of improvements they would like to see in place at their local stations.

The completed forms can be mailed freepost to GMPTE and entrants could be in line for a cash prize as all questionnaires will be entered into a prize draw with one prize of £200 and two prizes of £100.

Passengers' answers will help GMPTE to develop their park and ride strategy for rail and Metrolink, and identify stations which may benefit from improved parking facilities. This could involve introducing new car parks, or increasing parking spaces and safety and security features at existing car parks.

Geoff Inskip, GMPTE's Metrolink project director, said: "Improving access to Metrolink stations by all means of transport is a key objective of GMPTE. These surveys will help provide vital information on the kind of things passengers feel would make getting to and from their Metrolink stops easier.

"GMPTE is currently developing its park and ride strategy, in recognition of the importance of developing parking facilities at key points on the public transport network."

He stressed: "The last thing we want to see is a potential Metrolink user choosing to make their entire journey by car because they have been unable to find a parking space or are unable to leave their bike secure.

"I would ask anyone who is given a questionnaire to take a few moments and make a real contribution to the process of improving our public transport facilities."

Surveys are also being carried out at selected rail stations across Greater Manchester to help inform GMPTE's draft Rail Investment Strategy.

This outlines comprehensive proposals for investment in the local rail network in the long and short term. The final strategy, which will be submitted to Government, will commit GMPTE to maximising joint funding opportunities to deliver a raft of passenger improvements at local stations in the immediate future.