UNDER the heading Vital link to France cut (Daily Echo, November 25) a former Wilts and Dorset bus driver, Mr Chris Fry stated: “You can not simply pull a service when people depend on it. If it was a train or bus, there would be a statutory regulation to replace or keep it going.”

Over many years I have written letters to the Daily Echo in support of Wilts and Dorset buses. Like driver Fry I remember those days when the customer really counted. It doesn’t seem to be the case today. Replacements? I don’t think so. Try telling the residents of Amesford Road at Ferndown that.

Try telling that to those living on the huge estate around the Lantern at Merley. They too were cut off, and even when buses were forced to follow the route once more to avoid road works, the drivers were not allowed to pick up at the still existing bus stops.

It is no longer possible to catch a bus at Ferndown to get to Lyndhurst, or Southampton.

Maybe it is a campaign to get rid of all the pensioners, for they do clutter up the buses. Certainly in Poole bus station, the timetables have been reduced to around A4 size making it far more difficult for those with ancient eyes.

Wilts and Dorset was once a fine service. A few whiz kid consultants have invested money in very nice buses, it’s just a pity that so many are prevented from using them.

JACK LOVELAND, Parkwood Road, Wimborne