All hail the yellow bus

Published: 8 April, 2011

• I WAS very surprised and heartened by the support shown for the yellow PlusBus, both by the Tribune and our champion for older people, Virginia Low (Can’t shops back a bus that offers a way out of isolation, March 25).

The under-use of the 812 PlusBus stems from an unfortunate history of buses constantly breaking down, making the service unreliable in previous years. Supporters of the bus became utterly discouraged.

Recently, new 812 buses have been acquired and this has led to a correspondingly welcome and greatly signposted spots from which to hail the bus. I have no hesitation in hailing the PlusBus as to me it’s akin to hailing a taxi roaming the streets.

Although there are other specialised small bus services, there are often specific conditions attached to eligibility to use. The PlusBus, just like the red buses, serves the general public. It is an extension of the red bus service. 

It is not just for the elderly. Older people use it most simply because their age group is most in need of travel assistance on secondary roads, but any member of the public can hail the 812 bus by paying a £1 fare for a one-way ride.

With regard to Ms Low’s comment about shops supporting the bus, a number of PlusBus passengers shop at the Angel and I’m sure the major shops would be willing to contribute for the goodwill it would engender as well as increasing custom.

Also, a contribution from the council’s £900,000 saving obtained by uniting with other boroughs in providing school meals should be possible.

On a personal note, I would be at a loss if the PlusBus service ceases as I rely on it totally for my weekly shopping as well as missing the enjoyment and fun of hopping on and off the little bus on other occasions.

The yellow bus! The yellow bus!
The little yellow bus.
You see it here. You see it there
You see it everywhere.
Hail to the yellow bus!

SHEILA MOBERLY
Packington Street, N1