THERE has been a tremendous coverage in the press recently concerning the local buses and bus routes. 

I do feel that we here in West Dorset have got the ‘short end of the stick’ when Dorset County Council have been dealing with ‘public transport’ and in particular the buses. 

We live in a rural area having the need to travel to larger towns like Bridport, Crewkerne, Dorchester and Yeovil and some people do not have their own transport, therefore have to use the buses. 

It appears to me that decision have been made in County Hall with what appears scant disregards to the travelling public. 

The route number 40 from Bridport to Yeovil has now become rather farcical with a very, very early morning ‘service’, three throughout the rest of the weekday and none on Saturday or Sunday. 

This has curtailed any bus running through Broadwindsor therefore denying those residents and other passenger’s opportunities for rail travel to and from Crewkerne station. 

Also since there has been suggestions of amalgamating some health service facilities with Yeovil District hospital it makes travel both for appointments and visiting not only difficult but in many cases impossible. 

This leaves the remainder of the route between Beaminster and Bridport at seven departures each day which are not very well spaced apart. 

On top of all these ‘changes’ we only have one operator, the First group, for travel either by rail or bus which can easily fall into the category of a monopoly. I think Dorset County Council has an obligation to put the population first (excuse the pun, not intended) and do all they can to provide us with a reasonable bus service. 

I know the response could be ‘lack of money etc’ but councillors, please remember who elects you at election time, who you are supposed to represent on the council and for the officers, please remember who approves your salary. 

Douglas Beazer 
Address supplied