CALLS to improve the packed Bolton to Machester train service have been backed by Ruth Kelly.

The MP for Bolton West Kelly says she has been besieged with complaints from Horwich, Lostock and Blackrod people travelling on the cramped peak trains.

She said that the BEN's concerns about the safety of the trains had struck a chord with her constituents.

Ms Kelly said: "I am shocked by the numbers of complaints about overcrowding.

"At a time when peoples' faith in train safety is at a low ebb, improvements need to be made.

"It is unsatisfactory that commuters have to travel in cramped conditions and the train companies have an obligation to uphold.

"I will be pressing them to make urgent changes."