IT was with dismay but not surprise to read in Tuesday’s Press that the York to Harrogate bus service was being withdrawn.

Being in my mid-eighties, my wife and I are dependent on public transport, as my failing eyesight prevents me from driving any kind of motorised vehicles. We regularly travel to nearby towns like Selby, Harrogate and Wetherby. It is very noticeable just how few people use these bus services, at least during out-of-work hours.

One often hears complaints of poor rural public transport, but surely it is obvious that if people will not use this facility, economics will obviously mean withdrawal.

The bus pass for us is a godsend, and I would be pleased to hear what are the views of the main political parties on this issue, in view of the pending General Election.

D H Bradley, White Rose Grove, New Earswick, York.