THE future of a vital New Forest rail link could be in jeopardy unless alternative backing can be secured, it was revealed yesterday.

Transport secretary Alistair Darling has backed plans which named the Lymington to Brockenhurst line among 56 rural routes to be turned into "Community Rail Lines''.

The Strategic Rail Authority aims to cut subsidies to little-used rural lines and wants more backing from local authorities and businesses to increase passenger numbers.

Last night South West Trains denied the track was in imminent danger of closing, despite its inclusion in the new strategy.

But Mr Darling said he would take a hard look at lines that continued to be used by half-empty trains.

He said: "We've got to be hard-headed about this. We can't be in the business of carting fresh air around the country."

Supporters of the Brockenhurst to Lymington line include New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne, a regular user of the five-mile service.

He said: "The railway is a vital line for Lymington people who commute via Brockenhurst.

"Passengers could drive to Brockenhurst, but there's no spare capacity in the car park at the station.

"I lived in Lymington for a short time and found the railway to be a lifeline. I don't think we could do without it."

Lymington councillor Brenda Vincent said: "I would be absolutely appalled if it closed."

The Lymington line also serves the Wightlink ferry terminal and is often used by people on their way to and from the Isle of Wight.

A Wightlink spokesman said: "If they did look at closing it we would lobby the government very hard. We see it as an important link for Isle of Wight residents and mainlanders as well, and would be fully supportive of keeping it open."

Charles du Parc, president of Lymington Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "The railway is part of the link to the Island and the amount of business it brings to the town is significant."

Organisations involved in supporting and developing the line are likely to include Lymington and Pennington Town Council.

The authority has yet to receive a formal approach, but town clerk Ray Jones said: "I'm quite confident we would support the railway's continuation."

A spokesman for South West Trains said: "It's a pretty busy shuttle service. Passenger numbers are good and growing."