THERE are fears a new railway station could wipe out a youth sports club enjoyed by dozens of children.

Councillors in Westhoughton are expected tonight to request early details of the proposed development at Dobb Brow, to make sure it does not affect the town's junior rugby club.

The organisation, which has become a central part of the community in recent years, has pitches on land close to the railway line.

Councillors are now worried that plans for the new station could encroach onto the playing fields.

Westhoughton Town Council leader, Cllr David Wilkinson, said it is likely a letter will be sent to the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive asking for early details of the project to be sent to them.

He added: "This railway station at Dobb Brow is definitely needed and will make a big difference to a lot of people.

"But we want to make sure we do not solve one problem, but then help to get rid of a very successful rugby club which is getting young people playing good, honest, competitive sport every week.

"They have done a very good job and should be proud of themselves. We want to make sure we are involved at an early stage and try to prevent anything stupid happening."

In particular, Cllr Wilkinson, who placed the issue on the agenda of tonight's town council meeting, said they were concerned about where a car park would be situated and where people would access the site.

Dobb Brow station, which would be built close to Cunningham Road, has been at the planning stage for the past 20 years.

It was recently given the green light and its development should be fast-tracked. People living in the Hosker's Nook area of Westhoughton have in general been in support of the project, which would mean they would not have to travel to the nearest station, Daisy Hill.