At their recent Task Group Meeting, Graham said: “Local transport needs are very high on my agenda for the Weaver Vale area. It is not only imperative that we have a modern and efficient transport system but we have a duty to ensure that services survive for our children and grandchildren.
“For all rail users, whether they are using our trains for work, rest or play, it is essential that these services are on time, comfortable and clean and they are easy accessible.
“A priority in our area is the integration of our rail services with our buses so people can get into Northwich town centre with more ease. Station parking also needs to be improved for those travelling out of the town. I am particularly concerned about parking at Hartford and Acton Bridge stations.
“I am pleased to be working with the Rail Partnership and MCRUA on their aspirations for our area. MCRUA celebrate their 25th Anniversary this year and, as volunteers, they have contributed thousands of hours supporting our local stations and rail network.
The whole community owes them a big thank you”.
John Oates, Chairman of MCRUA and the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership said: “We are pleased to have Graham on board and helping us fight for better stations and services. If we can improve our local services into both Chester and Manchester and Crewe and Liverpool everyone is a winner.
“Many more people are now using our local rail services because they know it makes sense financially. It is also far more convenient especially when travelling into our cities.
“To have our local MP behind us will give us a strong voice in Westminster and on the local scene.”
Sally Buttifant, the Rail Partnership Officer said: “The Community Rail Partnership is all about creative partnership working and to have a local MP feeding into that partnership will give us considerable leverage when dealing with other organisations.
“Graham has a real interest in our local community and I am looking forward to introducing him to our local partners and our Mid Cheshire Line volunteers – who are the mainstay of much of our work at our local railway stations”.