SIR - I read with interest that one of our local bus companies, First, is in the process of a huge acquisition of another large bus company in the US. This will vastly increase the mileage that First covers and, according to the chief executive Moir Lockhead, contribute greatly to the profitability of the company.

Could I ask Mr Lockhead if he could go the extra mile in the UK first and get his buses to serve the people of Drakes Broughton by routing them round the village during the day rather than service them from the main road, which means about a one-mile walk uphill for many older people.

During the evening, when the buses are subsidised by the council, they do go round the village.

It does rather suggest that First Bus put profit before customers.

Terry James, Drakes Broughton.