TRANSPORT bosses have announced better rail services for Greater Manchester after striking a deal with train operator First North Western.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority reached a negotiated decision to allow First North Western to axe its unpopular train service between Manchester Airport and London.

In return, First North Western has agreed to:

Improve services between Manchester Victoria and Stalybridge

Reinstate services between Manchester Piccadilly and Hadfield via Glossop to avoid large gaps in evening services

Run new services between Manchester/Bolton and Horwich Parkway to serve Reebok Stadium events such as football matches

Introduce new price incentives for travellers to Manchester Airport Station

Maintain staffing levels at Bolton Station

Discuss with GMPTE the re-use of the London trains within Greater Manchester.

Chairman of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority, Cllr Joe Clarke said rail passengers in the region would benefit from having better local services.

The changes will come into effect on April 30, subject to Railtrack's approval.

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