I WOULD like to respond to Charlie Newton's letter (August 15). I'm afraid that I will not be giving First York any more chance to improve.

I've lived in York for nearly five years and the bus services have always been unreliable at best.

With all due respect, to think that First York can all of a sudden "get it right" is a fantasy.

Mr Newton may not begrudge paying his fare - but does he pay it every day? Is there a car behind this letter somewhere?

As for "paying a few extra pounds a year for good public transport" try "paying a few extra pounds a week for lousy public transport".

First York doesn't deserve its mostly excellent staff and long-suffering passengers.

Richard Greaves,

Morehall Close, York.

Updated: 10:46 Tuesday, August 21, 2001