MULTI-MILLION pound rail improvements could see extra trains running between Manchester and Bolton within four years.

Campaigners want to improve the line between Blackburn and Bolton so that it could take double the number of trains travelling between the two towns and Manchester .

Blackburn with Darwen Council is asking the Department of Transport and Network Rail for £8 million for the work. The improvements would include faster track, a mile-long section of double track, better signals and longer trains at peak times.

The line is currently single track between Darwen and Bromley Cross.

Council chiefs said if the bid was successful, work could start by the end of the year.

Campaigners say the upgrade is needed for the future prosperity of Blackburn and Darwen.

Cllr Kate Hollern, leader of the council, said: "Train links are vital for our borough, not just because they give us a convenient way to reach Manchester or Bolton, but because they provide key routes to work for our citizens and are vital to encourage visitors and shoppers."

Jack Straw, Blackburn MP and leader of the House of Commons, has thrown his weight behind the scheme and has been lobbying his government colleagues for support.

But Cllr Colin Rigby, the leader of the opposition on Blackburn with Darwen Council, said the plans should show more vision and include double track for the entire length of the line - which would accommodate a 20-minute service.

Northern Rail, which runs the service, has worked with the council to build its case and backs its plans.

The company currently operates half-hourly trains from Bolton to Manchester at peak times, but only hourly throughout the day.

The upgrade would make the service half-hourly from Monday to Saturday.

Hopes that the plans would be approved were given a boost yesterday when Rail Minister Tom Harris announced that the line from Clitheroe to Manchester via Blackburn and Bolton has been designated a community rail service.

This will allow Northern Rail to manage the service with greater flexibility and with emphasis on meeting local needs