TEENAGER Nathan Lewis has launched a petition against the massive 40 per cent rise in concessionary bus fares.

Instead of paying 50p Nathan and his friends will have to stump up 70p.

Now more than 250 youngsters and teachers have put their names to a petition which calls on the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive to reduce the level of the increase to a more affordable amount.

Nathan's mum says it will cost her an extra £150 per school year to get Nathan and his brother Alex to school. This increase will force many parents to drive their children to school instead of using the bus.

The Government is trying to convince people to use public transport more frequently. How does a rise in the concessionary fare aid that aim?

While public transport remains so infrequent and costly people will continue to use their own cars in ever increasing numbers. What part of this argument do those in power not understand?