A COUNCILLOR has criticised a Government review that could see less services stop a smaller railway stations in the region, such as Chester-le-Street.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Craig Martin, who represents the town on Durham County Council, said he would to fight plans to cut rail services to and from the town.

The proposals are part of a bid to reduce overcrowding on long-distance journeys by reducing the number of commuters and shorter journeys.

Cross Country currently run services between Aberdeen and Penzance, via Northumberland, Newcastle, Durham and Darlington, as well as the Newcastle to Bournemouth route.

Cllr Martin said: ““If these plans are approved it will be a hammer blow to residents, commuters and the local economy in the town. I’ll be fighting this to the bitter end and campaigning for more services to stop at our station.”

Residents have until August 30 to make their views known.