TRAIN travellers who are being left in the dark at Darwen Railway Station have been promised there is light at the end of the tunnel.

The Blackburn and Bolton Line Users' Group (B&BLRUG) say most of the lighting at the station has been out since the beginning of the year.

A member of the group reported the problem, which affects the Manchester-bound platform, access ramps and steps, on January 7. A follow-up letter was sent 10 days later, but repairs have yet to be started. B&BLRUG secretary Bob Hayes, said: "Access to and from the platforms is unlit. In the case of the Clitheroe-bound platform, the steep flights of steps is particularly hazardous.

"There is also the question of personal security for passengers travelling alone. It is five weeks since the matter was first reported and we are still awaiting action. The failure to ensure passenger safety is disgraceful." The group is now taking the issue up with the North West Rail User' Consultative Committee.

A spokesman for First North Western said: "The lighting problem at Darwen station was reported to our contractors and has required investigation to identify the source of the lighting failures.

"Our contractors are attending the site this week and will now be able to repair the problem lighting."

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