THE Association of North-East Councils is backing plans for a direct train service between Sunderland and London.

The association, which represents all 25 local authorities in the region, is urging the Office of Rail Regulation to approve a bid by the York-based Grand Central Railway Company to run four direct trains a day from Sunderland to Kings Cross, via Hartlepool, Eaglescliffe, Northallerton, Thirsk and York, using the Durham Coast Line and East Coast Main Line.

The private company, which also hopes to operate between Bradford Interchange and Kings Cross, says it would not require a subsidy from the taxpayer, unlike most shareholder-owned companies operating rail franchises.

Association director Melanie Laws said: "The association, as the voice of local government in the North-East, is united behind the case for Sunderland having its own direct rail service to London.

"The financial and social benefits of this service cannot be overstated for Sunderland and the other communities that this proposal would serve.

"For Sunderland, such a rail connection could have a vital role to play in continuing its tourism development and economic regeneration.''

Grand Central, whose bid to run services between Newcastle and Manchester was rejected, is being opposed by East Coast Main Line operator GNER, which says the service could conflict with its own trains.

A decision on the company's application is expected to be made in the summer.