People living in Queensgate and Cromwell Road have joined CRAFT, or Castle Residents Against Freight Trauma.

The group met for the first time last week to discuss its plan of action.

"There was a high turnout," said founder member Mr Smith, of Lee Drive. "And we were very surprised to see people from Winnington joining us. It seems they are just as badly affected."

Now the group plans to send a collective complaint to the freight line's operators - and also to Northwich MP Mike Hall.

Mr Smith said the operators, including line owners Railtrack and rolling stock company EWS, had asked for more information on CRAFT.

"They want to include us on their list of registered action groups," added Mr Smith. "That's a step up from the usual complaints procedure, which is based on individuals."

But some Castle residents say a high-profile campaign isn't the right move.

Jacqui Ford, of John Brunner Crescent, said: "My house rumbles, to be sure, just as other people's houses do round here.

"But there has been no structural damage. My fear is that action like this will only have bad effects on potential buyers of houses round here."

Mrs Ford made her feelings known to the group last week. But Mr Smith remains convinced that something should be done.

"My point to Mrs Ford was that this campaign could be the only way to improve things for buyers," he said.

"If we don't try, the problems will remain, and we will still be left with elderly pensioners like those ones who came to the meeting, in tears and hoping we can help."

Apart from logging complaints from CRAFT, the rail operators have agreed to examine a report from Vale Royal Borough Council on noise pollution in the area.

Environmental health officers have begun monitoring noise levels from the trains and the vibrations they cause.

To contact CRAFT, ring Stuart Smith on 01606 784201.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.