AS a visitor to York, I was very pleased to be able to have a free ride on the futuristic bus. I had a very comfortable ride and the bus was very busy with what looked like very contented passengers.

Perhaps City of York Council and First should have given more warning of teething problems, which are unfortunately a common feature of nearly all transport innovation. In Airedale, we have a wonderful electric train service which is extremely popular, but during its first month it was not so good and very frustrating. But it was worth a bit of patience.

I suggest York residents show a bit of patience too and see what it is like in six months' time. If lots of motorists switch to the new bus service, everyone will be rewarded by less congestion, even people who never use a bus.

In Bradford, congestion is often so bad that walking is quicker. York and First are at least trying to solve the problem. I see a few of the readers' letters are constructive. Constructive criticism is useful, but sounding off because novelty is surprising will not get rid of traffic jams!

Ray Wilkes,

Tower Road,

Shipley,

West Yorkshire.

Updated: 10:58 Tuesday, May 16, 2006