Today the 68 bus saga took an almost farcical turn.

Several passengers were waiting this morning at Boslowick shops for the 68 bus into Falmouth: about ten minutes after it was due, the 68A appeared, going in the opposite direction. The driver invited us to board - apparently there were only two buses on the circuit at the time - so we went all around the houses into Falmouth, which took well over half an hour (but at least we weren't left waiting at the bus stop, wondering where our "proper" bus had got to.) However, a month ago we had two buses an hour on this route. Now, it seems, First can't even find enough buses and/or drivers to run one an hour!

Cornwall county council runs, under contract, about 35% of all bus mileage in the county, which is why it has such a big influence on services and timetables. CCC, through the passenger transport unit, is also responsible for the countywide concessionary fares scheme, which gives free bus travel in Cornwall for the over 60's and eligible people with disabilities who are residents in Cornwall.

So, with one hand, they give out free bus passes. With the other hand, they take away the buses ...

Roger Downham, Diana Close, Falmouth