CALLS to keep ticket offices open at train stations across the country are being backed by Bolton North East MP David Crausby.

It was announced earlier this month that ticket offices would close at up to 675 stations, leaving passengers to use automated ticket machines or buy their tickets from onboard conductors.

Manned desks at Atherton, Bromley Cross, Daisy Hill, Farnworth, Hag Fold, Lostock, Walkden and Hindley will shut if the Government backs cost-cutting proposals outlined in a report released earlier this month.

Passenger groups have criticised the proposal and claimed the cuts would lead to a poorer service and less-safe stations.

Customers would have to buy their tickets from automated machines, from a conductor on the train or at manned barriers at other stations.

Mr Crausby has signed an Early Day Motion in Parliament calling on the Secretary of State for Transport to reject the proposals.

He said: “Not only does this proposal put hundreds of jobs at risk, it would leave railway passengers with a poorer service at a time when fares are set to increase dramatically.

I hope that the Government will reject this proposal and put the interests of passengers first.”