THE powers that be have a funny way of attempting to persuade us to use public transport.

At the moment, there appear to be particularly long build-ups of traffic in and around Bolton, and not just in rush-hour.

Too many people are using their cars for short journeys when they should be travelling by public transport, we are told.

So, what are the companies who run the local public transport system, such as First Bus, currently doing to persuade us that a bus ride is the better option? Reviewing services on three routes and increasing prices yet again.

If bus routes are not convenient and the prices are too high, people will always prefer the comfort and ease of their own vehicle. It's as simple as that.