BOLTON MP Julie Hilling has argued for the urgent need for greater rail investment in the region during her first meeting with the transport minister.

Ms Hilling, pictured, who was recently appointed as chairman of the Rail in the North group of MPs, was due to chair her first meeting yesterday.

She urged Transport Minister Theresa Villiers to consider the pressing need for additional carriages on trains and the demand for more rail services.

She will concentrate on the Manchester- Preston route, which serves Bolton and the surrounding stations covering her constituency.

Ms Hilling said: “It is vital transport ministers are aware of the urgent need to resolve overcrowding on our railways and to make sure that train services reflect the demands of commuters.”