“Everywhere was hit badly but Bolton was hit particularly badly because we have no access to a tram” said Councillor Linda Thomas.

“If you want people to get out of their cars and reduce carbon emissions I’m afraid there’s very little alternative.”

#NorthernRail put on notice that unless they deliver on electrification between #Bolton & Mcr & services improve #GM Mayor & Leaders will formally request their franchise removal ⁦

@LindaThomasUK

Speaking at a meeting of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, the leader of Bolton Council. said: “I think Bolton people are fed up hearing about it, I don’t think they believe [Northern Rail].” She added that local leaders need to “take a stand” on behalf of the people of Greater Manchester.”

Councillor Thomas was responding to comments made by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who said: “It’s very clear they are on notice and if this doesn’t change in the six months ahead our position will be abundantly clear. I assure you I will prosecute it with vigour.”

“Performance has stabilised which you can see as a good thing but it’s way below what it was this time last year and it wasn’t great this time last year. This is not acceptable progress from my point of view,” Mayor Burnham added.