Rod Bell’s letter of May 3 highlighting the public transport measures which would bring greater benefit than dualling of the A64, and the study on concessionary travel mentioned in The Press earlier (Bus pass key to happiness, May 2) both reveal that well-being is an issue receiving current attention.

As we wait for politicians to take major decisions in the light of climate change information, we can at least be grateful for the options currently open to us individually.

For a long time I’ve been aware of the health benefits resulting from concessionary bus passes, which not only mean more people using public transport, but also provide a social benefit to older or disabled people who are not confined to staying indoors.

There are obvious health benefits from getting out and socialising - even chatting at the bus stop, or with other passengers on the local bus!

And there must be an economic benefit at the coffee shops in town at least!

Dorothy Reed,

Dringhouses,York

Was this fare play for 103-year-old?

I was on the number 11 service to Ashley Park at about 10.20 on Thursday, May 2 when a gentleman boarded the bus on Bishopthorpe Road and presented his bus pass.

The driver said her machine didn’t recognise his card and told him that he needed to contact the council. Her next comment was that he must pay the fare or get off. Shame on you First Bus.

I know this gentleman. He is 103 years old and a regular user of the buses. The company should be ashamed by such a policy, it was clear for all to see that he was a pensioner and fully entitled to qualify for free travel.

First Bus should give this gentleman a ‘Gold Pass’ without any restrictions on their buses.

S Atkinson,

Hamilton Drive,

York