THE region's TUC is backing a union campaign against possible cuts to the North-East's rail services.

The Rail Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) is fighting to prevent a reduction in trains that could follow a review of services and fares by the Strategic Rail Authority.

There is speculation that off-peak services could be replaced by buses and that there could also be station and line closures, leading to job losses.

Northern TUC regional secretary Kevin Rowan said: "Transport is a major social, economic and political issue right now in this region.

"Good quality, frequent and accessible public transport systems are essential for putting employment opportunities within reach of our communities and are vital in supporting efforts to tackle congestion and climate change.

"The Government should use its powers under the Railways Bill to oppose any reductions in service, line or station closures."

RMT regional officer Stan Herschel said: "It is now time to regulate transport in a fashion that meets the needs of the travelling public and that this should be by way of total inclusion for all concerned.

"Bus, light rail and heavy rail should complement one another and not compete. The only way to reduce the use of cars, and therefore reduce congestion and be environmentally friendly, is to give the population what it wants - affordable, reliable, and regular modes of travel run on a commercially-viable basis."