POLITICIANS are urging train bosses to consider extending a train service into east Cleveland.

Simon Clarke, MP for Middlesbrough South and east Cleveland and Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, are calling on TransPennine Express to extend their Manchester Airport to Middlesbrough service so that it starts and finishes in Saltburn.

Mr Houchen is scheduled to meet with bosses at TransPennine later this month, whilst Mr Clarke met with Keith Simpson, the chairman of the Saltburn Line User Group (SLUG) last week.

The pair discussed the proposal, which would bring an hourly service to Saltburn station to complement the existing Northern trains. SLUG is strongly in support.

Supporters say the TransPennine service calling at Saltburn would provide direct fast access to cities including York, Leeds and Manchester – and would represent a huge boost for tourism in the area.

The service would likely also call at Redcar.

Mr Clarke said: “People in east Cleveland really want better train services and there has been a hugely popular welcome for this idea.

“I am working with Ben Houchen and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council to help make it happen, and I am looking forward to detailed talks with TransPennine next month.

“Teesside is experiencing a long overdue rail revolution at the moment, with the hated pacer trains being phased out, a new direct service from London King’s Cross to Middlesbrough starting in 2020 and millions of pounds being spent on refurbishing the town’s station.

"Now is the time for east Cleveland to benefit too, and this idea would transform our connections.

“With Saltburn booming as a tourism destination, better rail access would be a huge boost to local businesses and help tackle the problem the town faces with too many visitors coming by car at peak times.”

Mr Houchen said: “I’ve been working with TransPennine Express for a number of months to see if we can secure services to Saltburn and Redcar.

“I have made it clear to rail bosses that I am willing to make a small financial contribution in the short-term to kick-start the service.

“While I am hearing some very positive noises, there is more detail we need to thrash out in the meantime.

“I am grateful for Simon’s support and the work he is doing to ensure the people of east Cleveland get a fast, direct service to York, Leeds and Manchester.”