ON Wednesday, August 20 I took the number 23 Stagecoach from Newnham-on-Severn to Lydney at 10.36 am.

We had to come to a dead stop just past The Willows guest house on the A48 because there was a water leakage and steam was escaping from the back of the bus.

One passenger loaned the driver her mobile because he couldn't get a signal on his phone.

Stagecoach couldn't get to us any earlier than the next due bus so we had to wait just over the hour to be collected.

One passenger was able to obtain a lift and another walked the rest of the way into Lydney.

It was potentially a dangerous situation because every time a heavy goods vehicle sped by, as they do, the bus rocked and shook.

There was nothing we could do, but take it in our stride. The driver was most apologetic and regularly checked that we were all right.

However, it is still obvious that the buses are not looked after, not kept in good condition – false economy is the key word here, as usual.

A delay like this has an ongoing effect on passengers further along the route and those waiting for return journeys.

Another point struck me, supposing there was no one on board who had a phone with a decent signal; why isn't there a computer or radio link in the drivers cabin so that help can be requested on tap?

Our dear Sue Dubois really does have to be admired and all those who fight for decent standards in public transport; but they must be battle-weary by now.

– Margaret Coles, Newnham.