IMPROVING access for passengers at a busy train station by adding new elevators has been confirmed as a top priority for a rail firm.

MP Priti Patel met with bosses from Greater Anglia to press for fresh investment at Marks Tey station.

The company's managing director Jamie Burles confirmed a new footbridge and lifts would be built if they can secure funding from a Government fund called Access for All.

Marks Tey station is also used by commuters travelling into Essex from Sudbury, and South Suffolk MP James Cartlidge also joined the meeting to lobby for improvements.

Tory Ms Patel said: "After years of campaigning with my colleague James, I am delighted Greater Anglia are taking this matter seriously and that installing lifts at Marks Tey is their number one priority.

“It is important that our railways are accessible to all and this investment at the station is long overdue.

“Marks Tey is an important interchange for passengers who use the Sudbury branch line and the installation of lifts will enable commuters with disabilities to cross the railway to access London bound services more easily.

"Lifts will also improve accessibility for passengers with young children or heavy luggage.

“I will continue to press for investment in our local stations and will work closely with Greater Anglia and the Department for Transport to ensure that this funding for the lifts is secured.”

Mr Burles added: “A new footbridge and lifts at Marks Tey station will be our top priority for the latest round of Access for All funding.

"Marks Tey is a very busy station on the Great Eastern Main Line, and serves as an important interchange for rail passengers using our Sudbury branch line services.

“We will be working with all local stakeholders, including our local MPs, to build up a strong case in time for the bid submission deadline in November.”