BOTH Leigh MP James Grundy and Bolton and Atherton MP Chris Green have cosigned a letter calling for NHS workers to be offered free bus travel.

The letter, addressed for Manchester Metro Mayor Andy Burnham, himself a former MP for Leigh, is cosigned by many of the MPs in Greater Manchester calling for free travel for NHS frontline staff and children of key workers.

The letter says: "As I am sure you will appreciate we are living in unprecedented times. Now more than ever we are reliant upon the dedication of the incredible people who work in our NHS. I note with interest the actions taken by West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, in facilitating an agreement with transport operators to provide free travel for NHS frontline staff.

"My colleagues and I are calling on you to replicate this excellent initiative in Greater Manchester.

"I understand that this agreement has been reached in conjunction with transport operators and the West Midlands Combined Authority and "I would urge you to work constructively with our transport providers in Greater Manchester to support our NHS staff at this difficult time.

"I also note the children of key workers travelling to school will be able to make use of this free travel on the production of the supporting letters which allow them to attend school. I would also urge you to consider introducing this measure too.

"This small gesture would go a long way to recognise the amazing contribution and sacrifices made by those people on the frontline in our national response to coronavirus.

"Please could I ask you to give this urgent attention as with the new temporary hospital at Manchester Central there will be an even greater demand on our key workers in the regional sector."

Currently free travel is being offered to NHS staff in Wales but not in England as of yet.