I AM sure many people will be aware by now of the disgraceful decision by First Manchester to withdraw the much needed 519/520 service from Johnson Fold estate on 3rd September.

We in Smithills Ward Labour Party are completely opposed to this move and have been working since July 8 to support Peter Hopkinson and Johnson Fold residents in trying to overturn this decision and will continue to do so. We urge everyone to sign the petition.

This decision will isolate even further an already isolated community. Access to vital health services, supermarkets, schools off the route, nurseries and jobs on Chorley Old Road will mean either a long walk through the estate (or extra journey) to reach the 125 route, or a long walk at the other end of the revised 501 route on Church Road; many infirm or elderly people won't be able to face that.

The company, so far, has given no assurance as to fares. Maximum fare on the 519/520 is £1.30 from the estate. The fare on the 501 from its current terminus is £1.70. I'm sure we can guess what might happen next.

We are gratified at the support of local Conservative MP Chris Green for the campaign.

However, our gratification is tempered by the knowledge that it was his party that deregulated the bus services in the first place, resulting in the privatised, free for all, only the bottom line counts, mess that passes for a public transport system in this country.

Ian Coulthard

Chair Smithills Ward Labour Party

St George's Road

Bolton