Not all bus drivers are selfish

10:06am Tuesday 6th May 2008

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I am writing in response to two recent letters featured in your paper regarding First Group drivers in Bolton. Having worked on the buses for several years, but not recently, I feel that I have to defend my former colleagues.

Firstly, Brian Derbyshire and his wife were left by a driver when they were in close proximity of a bus stop. Providing that the driver saw them, it was fair of Mr Derbyshire to complain about this selfish act.

Secondly, Irene Kerrighan complained about her niece having her pass confiscated for misuse. I am sorry Mrs Kerrighan but like it or not, if the pass says that travel is available from Bolton Moor Lane to Wigan and Leigh College, then all other journeys have to be paid for.

If your niece had a legitimate need to travel from Tonge Moor to the college and return, she should have ensured that her pass showed the correct details.

In the latter case, the driver should be commended for looking after the interests of his employer.

It is six years since I worked for First and then fare evasion was estimated at £2m per year. Could this be one of the reasons that fares have increased so much?

Not all bus drivers are selfish or contemptuous. Although pay has improved over recent years, it could still be better.

Most drivers have to work long hours in order to take home a good wage.

They get stuck in traffic, run late, get tired and frequently get shouted at and abused, and this on a good day.

Doreen Cobley Hindley