I refer to Coun Mark Crane's report in last week's Selby Times – Axed OAP rail deal 'disgrace' far from fare.

Is this man aware of what governance is all about? More to the point, is he capable of thinking outside the confines of the debating chamber?

What's not clear, as it has been omitted from the article, are the over-60 concessionary rail passes being withdrawn at the same time?

Then there's the small issue of people with disabilities having to endure exaggerated travel times and in less comfort by bus than is the case with rail travel.

How on earth can he possibly consider bus travel is a viable alternative to rail?

Living in the north east of the district, I have no alternative but to travel by car to the railway station. Our last bus from Selby is 5.35pm and there's no Sunday or bank holiday services.

Going on Coun Cane's preferred thinking, why would I want to drive to Selby and pay the district council an exorbitant sum to use one of their long-stay car parks and then venture off on a bus?

There's also the small matter of the state of Arriva buses, not the most modern of vehicles. In fact, some of the double deckers are positively old.

How many times has Coun Cane left his car at home and travelled by bus, be it a long or short distance? Never, I suspect.

As to the £20,000 proposed savings, well, if Selby District Council was a little more proactive and collected in all its debts, there would be no need for the proposed draconian plans.

I can be in Bradford from Selby by rail within the hour without changing. Try that by bus Coun Cane.

It's a great pity the electorate of Selby cannot raise a motion of 'no confidence' in the current ruling council. We need fresh and forward-thinking people to look after the district, not destroy it.

David Rhodes
The Shrubberies, Cliffe