THE first of a series of Metrolink rallies to demand plans to extend the system are reinstated is to take place on Thursday.

Hundreds of people are expected to gather at the rallies in Droylsden and Ashton, in Tameside.

Plans to extend the tram system were stopped in July by the government, which said they were too expensive.

Transport secretary Alistair Darling made the decision despite £200m already having been spent on the project.

A rally bus has been organised to transport the message of campaigners, who were due to start the event in Edge Lane, Droylsden.

"We are focusing on two key areas: Droylsden is the gateway to the borough and Ashton is the final stop," said Cllr Kieran Quinn, of Tameside Borough Council.

"A great deal of work has already been done in both areas.

"Parliament reconvenes on 7 September and local MPs are straining at the leash to get back in. We will not stop fighting until the decision is reversed."

When he made his decision to axe the plans, Mr Darling said the government was not accountable for the fact the scheme had become too expensive.

Homes, schools and offices have already been demolished to make way for the route expansion and a tram stop has also been built at the airport in preparation for the planned works.