FOLLOWING recent reports about a bus stop being provided but no buses use it, I am writing to say that we have a similar problem here in Bolton.

I have been campaigning for both the Arriva 575 and First 575 services, who serve on the same route, to recognise the stop on Bridge Street in Bolton town centre. It is located just through the lights at Bow Street.

Arriva has been very accommodating, but First seems to be very reluctant, as it fears a stop would delay the running time on their services.

I have pointed out that this would save the elderly and the disabled from walking up a hill after shopping, and it would be ideal for anyone travelling from the rail interchange at Newport Street who wished to get to the area near Argos or socialise in that part of the town.

I attended the recent GMPTA operators’ surgery at the bus station on November 4 to raise the request again.

I must praise Arriva, which promised to look at this, but First bus apparently failed to send any representatives.

The point I am trying to make to the firm is this — if the 125 and 126 Stagecoach services and the 576 evening services stop there, why should it be too difficult for First buses to do the same? The stop is already there.

Preva Crossley, Roseneath Road, Great Lever