Last updated 13:36, Thursday, 07 August 2008

NOW that the summer influx of visitors is in full swing, I trust that the independent traders are prospering and meeting the challenge of the major chains.

However, there is a small transport problem requiring attention in order to put one important group of visitors at the top of the pile.

I refer to the standard of vehicle provided by Stagecoach Carlisle on premier cross country route 685 which, incidentally, I have seen promoted in the Sunday press as a bus route to savour.

Savour it you will if you travel on an Arriva semi-coach, well past the first flush of youth but perfectly adequate and comfortable!

To fulfil its commitment to the route, Stagecoach has only two similar coaches to offer which seem to disappear with monotonous regularity to be replaced by a superannuated service bus. OK for local Carlisle, but seriously lacking for a 60-mile trip from Carlisle to Newcastle.

My wife tells me that with a bus pass I should think myself lucky to travel for “nowt”.

What impressions will our more corpulent foreign visitors form after a ride on the 14.45 or 15.45 ex-Eldon Square? Having a corrugated rear-end by the time Hexham is reached, they may well make for the nearest physio rather than the welcoming shops.

I am sure that many locals will agree with my comments and also confirm that Stagecoach drivers like our local drivers are excellent.

ROGER HOWELL,

Hallstile Bank,

Hexham