Villagers are calling for a bus stop to be installed at Manea railway station.

The 4.15pm bus from March to Manea links to a train but passengers getting off at Manea are unable to use it because there is no bus stop.

Regular train user Sally Hookway said: “I got off the train the other day and saw the bus and I thought wouldn’t it be good if I could catch that into the village rather than having to walk the mile-and-a-quarter home.

“I’ve spoken to other people and they all say they would make better use of the railway station if it was easier to get there if you haven’t got a car.

“It is a long walk for people, especially older people. It makes sense to me to have some of the buses linked to some of the trains.

“It would be good for business for the bus and train operators and it would be convenient for villagers. But the first step is to get an official bus stop at the top of Wimblington Road so the buses can stop.

“There is a bus stop at Boots Bridge, which has been there historically without ever being looked at and it is never used. That stop could be replaced by one near the station which I’m sure would be used.”

Residents have the backing of North East Cambs MP Steve Barclay, who is also pushing for a bus shelter to be built in the village.

He said: “We want to boost rail passenger numbers so we can push for an hourly train service at Manea.

“Making it easier for people to get to and from the station would help as it would enable people who can’t walk too far and don’t have a car to use the trains.

“Sally is right to point out it would also help the bus and train companies by bringing more business their way.

“It is important the bus company considers introducing a stop at Wimblington Road, and to then look at how it can link into some of the trains that stop at Manea.”