THE decision by Transdev to withdraw the late-evening Coastliner bus services has deprived many in the Stockton-on-the-Forest area of their ability to enjoy a decent social life or to retain their jobs in the city without incurring crippling travel costs.

The company’s rationale is that the low number of users of the services does not allow them to cover the costs, although their passenger figures are disputed by many regular users.

Furthermore, due to the Coastliner service having served the village, there is no First Bus service to the area, unlike all other suburban villages.

Strensall and Stockton Liberal Democrats have launched a petition to restore these services and intend to present this to Transdev and City of York Council. Many have already signed it, but anyone who wishes to add their support can do so by visiting yorklibdems.org.uk/buspetition

It is crucial that a suitable late bus service to Stockton is reinstated as soon as possible. After all, PSV stands for public service vehicle and not profit-seeking vehicle.

Tony Fisher, West End, Strensall.