Blyth’s Labour councillors are urging Northumberland County Council to find a satisfactory solution to the necessary relocation of a local horse sanctuary to make way for the new Bebside train station.

In a joint statement, Blyth Labour councillors said: “While we are looking forward to a much improved rail service in Northumberland we need to also consider the needs of the much loved Bebside Horses Charity Trust.

“The strength of feeling is strong because this sanctuary is supported by many local people and provides support and training for deprived families and young people with learning difficulties.

“We urge the council to find a way through which delivers the station we so badly need but finds away to relocate the sanctuary to preserve this vital and much loved asset.”

“Labour suggests the leader does the right thing, changes his mind and puts the people of our area first.”