AFTER holding my tongue for the past few months about Arriva and its shoddy service, I feel now is the time to voice my anger and concern.

As a frequent user of the Arriva service, I board ten buses every week to and from work. At least five times in the past year a bus has failed to turn up – I can only assume the reason to be the driver arriving far too early. It would be quicker for me to walk from Bishop Auckland to Spennymoor every morning.

How can Durham County Council justify hiring this lacklustre, pathetic excuse for a bus company to take over Durham City’s park-and-ride?

I can only foresee total disaster in the near future unless this decision is reversed and Scarlet Band wins the right to continue its fine service.

I have never travelled on the park-and-ride myself, but all the complimentary words from other people have convinced me that Scarlet Band is the right company for the job.

After reading some of the letters sent to HAS from irate Arriva passengers, one can clearly see where the contract should go. I would be very interested to see a reader’s letter complimenting the Arriva service in the North-East, especially in the Wear Valley/Sedgefield area.

Michael Blighe, Bishop Auckland, Co Durham.

I HAVE never written to a newspaper before, but the way in which Scarlet Band has been treated over the Durham City park-and-ride service contract makes my blood boil. You should send all the letters you have received to Durham County Council and let it respond.

Jean Gibson, Bowburn, Durham.