A CAMPAIGN aimed at promoting public transport and reducing the harmful effects of car traffic has been launched in Bury.

The move comes after a report stressed that an increase in the use of public transport would improve the physical and mental health of the residents of Greater Manchester.

Backing the "Don't Choke Bury and Rochdale" campaign is Dr Kevin Snee, director of public health for Bury and Rochdale Health Authority.

Dr Snee and his counterparts throughout Greater Manchester agree that there are benefits to be derived from public transport over car travel.

Also at the Bury launch of the campaign, held at the town's Interchange, was Councillor Wayne Campbell.

A Bury councillor and member of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA), Coun Campbell said: "The 'Don't Choke Britain' campaign is a very valuable one as it gives us the opportunity to highlight the importance of using public transport. "The directors of public health for the six authorities of Greater Manchester are in full support of the campaign."

He went on: "Heavy traffic causes numerous problems including air pollution, noise pollution, stress and anxiety, accidents and social exclusion.

"It is important that residents of Greater Manchester make the most of this opportunity to change their travelling habits.

"Try catching the bus, train or tram to work for a change and leave your car at home. For short journeys, leave your car at home and cycle or walk instead."

The campaign has been launched after new research revealed that traffic may greatly affect our quality of life and that one of the solutions is better public transport.

The report from the Directors of Public Health for Greater Manchester confirmed the physical health problems which are normally associated with heavy traffic but, more significantly, it proved that heavy traffic can sever communities and heavy car usage leads to less casual contact with other people.

Councillor Joe Clarke, chairman of the GMPTA, said: "This report highlights the importance of the goals that the PTA has been striving to achieve.

"It confirms that quality public transport networks are essential to the vitality and health of our towns and cities and to the people who live in them."

Pictured getting the bus are Coun Wayne Campbell (left) and Dr Kevin Snee.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.