Please Write to Your MP on the Subject of Coach Services at Risk.

Below please find a model letter which by adding your name and contact details can be sent off to you Local MP.

Dear (Insert MP's Name)

Coach Services at Risk

I am very concerned about the potential reduction in coach services and higher coach fares as a result of the upcoming withdrawal, by the Government, of the Coach Concessionary Travel scheme.

The Coach Concessionary Travel scheme provides half price coach travel for disabled people and those over 60 within England and Wales. At the Comprehensive Spending Review the Government announced its intention to withdraw the scheme from the end of October this year. The equivalent scheme in Scotland - which provides free, not half price, coach travel for disabled people and those over 60 - will remain in place. Why is it not possible in England?

I understand that coaches in locations where services are a lifeline may be reduced because of the potential reduction in passenger numbers. Taking a coach is usually the best value and most flexible means of public transport for me to use. Any changes to local services or ticket prices will have an impact on my ability to travel. I am also concerned that this raises the spectre of the national concessionary travel pass, which runs out in August 2012, being withdrawn is that what the Government intends?

I should be very grateful if you would look into this matter for me and encourage the Department for Transport to work with the local coach industry to fully understand and reduce the impact of the scheme's removal or at least delay the scheme's withdrawal until the full impact on people like me is understood.

Yours Sincerely