I USED to use the Number 4 ftr bus, but since mid-July I have now boycotted the route, and prefer to walk and catch a proper bus with service and a driver that has a face and a smile.

My reasons are as follows. Since the service started in May I can hardly remember a day that it has turned up on time. I paid my £11 weekly ticket in advance, but the number of free rides given due to the payment machine not working really annoys me. The "pilot" on the ftr has the most comfortable seat and a cabin all to himself. I find the seating uncomfortable, and the standing arrangement very dangerous.

I have witnessed two people having to be taken to hospital due to a fall when the bus has had to stop suddenly. Also, in July, in the hot weather, the air-conditioning was not working on at least four occasions and with no windows the journeys were unbearable.

Animals would not have been transported this way.

I question why First York has never issued a questionnaire to passengers to find the true feelings. I submitted my complaint to First York in July, but the company did not have the decency to reply, so I would hope you will publish this letter.

I know many letters have been published on this subject, but maybe at some point First York might get the message that the "Purple Peril" is not wanted on our streets.

A Rivoira, Sandcroft Road, Dringhouses, York.