I AM writing to you to bring attention to what, at best, could be described as a gross case of profiteering by National Express at the expense of residents in the Forest of Dean and Chepstow areas.

For the past 20 years or more there has been a National Express service running from Chepstow bus station to Heathrow.

The costs has increased most years by inflation and until earlier this year was approximately £40 return.

While trying to book a return fare earlier this month, the cost had moved from £40 to £70 – somewhat above the rate of inflation.

On investigation and having contacted National Express, I was initially told that, for the past 18 years, I must have benefitted from “specials” which run periodically.

Somewhat odd, as I have used the service repeatedly, up to four times a year and always paid the £40, as have most of my friends.

The service in question starts its journey in Swansea and stops off in Chepstow on its way to Heathrow.

The cost from Swansea is £63, which is £7 cheaper than Chepstow although the distance overall is approximately 140 miles longer on a round trip.

Bristol, which is a similar distance from Heathrow as Chepstow, remains at £40.

I have spoken to some locals and they are of the same mind as myself but, unlike myself, are left with no choice and are having to begrudgingly pay this rather high price.

In the absence of any credible excuse from National Express I strongly feel that this is a matter that should be brought to the attention of your readers.

– Bonnie Hampton, via e-mail.