A LOWTON pensioner, 100 per cent behind Xanadu and the Kenyon rail link, has hit out at protestors.

Frank Knight, of Crow Wood Road, is appealing to people against the park and ride interchange to have a rethink on what he claims will be Leigh's salvation for work, leisure and commuting.

After attending the Kenyon Junction public inquiry at Leigh Town Hall on Tuesday, which heard Chris Maile, representing protesting groups, Frank, 72, said: "Many local men, once breadwinners, have been made redundant. I feel sad to think a few would like them to stay out of work.

"Drivers could park their cars at Kenyon and travel by the link, and possibly from Leigh later on. Road congestion would be relieved, there would be less traffic pollution and fewer jams. "My message to the Green Party is that we had steam and coal trains at Kenyon, and sidings too, with no effect on wildlife.

"The link will not affect the green belt, only the people against the Xanadu complex. They know they have lost their case once Kenyon gets the go-ahead.

"The link will be the best thing for Leigh and Atherton. It will create jobs and give some of our men their pride back by giving them work.

"The Greens would do better to campaign against the poison that's getting in the food chain. I am very surprised at their negative thinking.

"I say to them, let progress go on, and change your approach to this excellent opportunity.

"I have lived in Leigh for 44 years and Lowton for 28 years and in all this time the only effect on the green belt has been the pollution of Pennington Flash and the canal.

"Large amounts of cash will be spent in Leigh once the link and Xanadu complex is built. I rubbish any case against the transport link. It must go ahead. Support it, don't condemn it. It is a great opportunity."

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