METROLINK bosses are investigating claims that a staff member drove a tram while reading a newspaper and with his legs up on the front window.

Two Bury passengers who claim they witnessed the incident have sent ticket details to the company so Metrolink can trace the driver.

Management acted swiftly after Mr Allan Bennett, of Brandlesholme, Bury, complained about the driver's conduct.

He wrote to bosses on behalf of his partner, Delores, and daughter Jane (11), who were on the tram.

Mr Bennett said: "We have a lot of concern about the driver. On the outward journey, my partner and daughter were both shocked and concerned over the driver's behaviour.

"Apparently, he drove most of the way in a slouched position with his legs up on the window and reading a newspaper.

"As the tram approached each station, he mumbled the name of the station in an incoherent tone which you could not understand."

A spokeswoman for Metrolink said of the matter: "The tickets will dictate the tram time and we should be able to look at the roster and identity the driver.

"Drivers have to follow rules. Reading a newspaper and putting their legs up on the window isn't one of them. The matter is now being fully investigated."