Sandbach's MP has welcomed the move to bring Avanti West Coast services into public ownership.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander officially announced plans to re-nationalise Britain's busiest train line at the expiry of its contract in March 2027.

Congleton MP, Sarah Russell, whose constituency includes Sandbach said: "I welcome the news that Avanti West Coast train services will transfer into public ownership in March 2027.

"This will allow a greater focus on putting passengers first, rather than profit. I know many residents rely on these services for journeys from Stoke and Crewe Stations.

"Ensuring reliability and meeting connecting services is really important for residents, and many have written to me about being stuck on delayed Avanti service at Stoke or Crewe stations and waiting almost an hour for the connecting service.

"This week I met with the Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, about the lack of Sunday services for Congleton and also how early those services stop running in the evening, especially on a Saturday. I will continue to lobby about this, and accessibility at Sandbach station.

"I am also delighted the Transport Secretary has said that when commissioning new trains, they will be more physically family friendly. This is something I had also pressed government for."

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