RAIL passengers have launched a bid to rejuvenate run-down stations in a campaign for better facilities.

Public meetings are being held this month to set up station adoption groups in Hindley and Walkden, on the Manchester to Southport line.

Cllr James Ellis, who represents Hindley on Wigan Council, said: "Part of our station has been refurbished, but the steps leading down from the footbridge are too narrow for disabled people to get down.

"There is no wheelchair access to the car park."

A group of more than 30 people attended an inaugural meeting of Hindley's Friends Group.

A committee will be appointed at its next meeting at St John's Methodist Church, in Market Street, at 7.30pm on Tuesday, January 23.

Adoption schemes, run in association with Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, are aimed at encouraging more people to use the rail network.

Cllr Ellis said the group would set realistic short-term goals before pressing operators to increase the number of services running through the station.

"Initially we will be looking to find funds to improve signage on the station and for volunteers to smarten up the platforms by putting in flowers," he said.

Cllr Stan Witkowski, who represents Walkden on Salford Council, said a friends group for Walkden Station would be formed at a meeting at Walkden British Legion, in Wilfred Road, at 7pm, on January 30.

"It's not just about the station, but about getting integrated transport," he said.

"Unfortunately, there is no car park here.

"It might take 10 years to sort out, but a lot of people would benefit.

"In the meantime, we hope volunteers will help tidy up the station."

A friends group for Blackrod Station was formed in 2003 when the station, served by services from Manchester to Barrow and Blackpool, was thought to be at risk.

Secretary Mandy Broadbent said: "The group really works for the good of the community. We were always worried about our station being closed, but now we know that won't happen."

Work is due to start next month on a 75-space park and ride site at Blackrod, costing £256,000.