Split for better service

The decision to split the 81/82 Bents Green-Stannington service was not taken without careful consideration. Cross-city routes can help provide good access for customers but can also be prone to reliability problems because delays on one section affect the other.

This was particularly the case with the 81/82 and by splitting the service we believe we can offer better reliability for our customers. Although I accept the points raised, our surveys showed that very few people travelled cross-city and our 3 day ticket, high frequency services and good interchange facilities minimises inconvenience.

Brandon Jones, business development director/deputy MDFirst South Yorkshire Limited

Respect for elderly

AS A pensioner, I am very grateful we have our bus service in Sheffield; we would be lost without it. So I am unhappy because I have to write this letter. I know they are a minority, but please, please, will some of the drivers have more sensitivity towards elderly people. I recently met an elderly lady who said she had hurt her arms after falling on a bus. This happened as she tried to get off the bus. The driver had tended to put his foot on and off the brake when approaching the bus stop. This jolted her back and forward so making her fall.

I was so angry about this as me and many more have experienced this jolting, which is frightening. Some drivers tend to screech to a halt far too quickly as well when approaching a bus stop.

It has got to a stage where many elderly are afraid to get on or off a bus. I know drivers have to keep to a timetable, but please can we have more respect for the elderly.

Name and address supplied

No lenience

THE Star recently printed an article about student bus passes being sent out late. Lots of students have started college and have been unable to get their bus passes. Apparently the Transport Department said that these students, when providing evidence, would be treated leniently.

My 16-year-old grand-daughter started her first day at college this week, only to be told that she would have to pay the full 2 fare, despite the fact that she showed her Student Union Card and old school bus pass to the driver.

YH, S12