I HAVE used Stagecoach buses for 19 years, I do not drive.

Over the last year during the review period of all subsidised bus services in Gloucestershire, the amount of Forest buses suffering breakdowns or mechanical failure has risen alarmingly.

An example: Friday September 23, gears problem, No. 23 late getting out of Gloucester Bus Station.

Monday 26: Breakdown at Westbury, overheating and brake problem, smoke issuing from back. Long delay.

Tuesday September 27: Bus makes it to Gloucester but had to have a refuel – late going out.

Wednesday September  28: Gears problem again, mechanic called, driver in despair, over 55 people held up.

Thursday September 29: Accident at Viney Hill bus detour (not Stagecoach's fault).

I was in a queue with nurses, police workers, civil servants, many students, pensioners, small children on 28, and the mood was one of anger and outrage at these constant and regular mechanical breakdowns.

The old buses are covered in dents and scratches, they should be retired.

Why can't Stagecoach give the Forest some decent stock that, to quote County Policy, "ensures that people can get to essential places, including work, school and medical facilities."

Stagecoach's annual report gives a laughable low figure for breakdowns – maybe the managing director would care to visit the Forest of Dean and assess the old stock and see if they believe it "fit for purpose". Any mechanic would agree that they are not.

New luxury "Gold" buses stand proud at Gloucester, the investments are all it seems in the urban conurbations but not in our rural area.

The lack of working buses is affecting people's ability to work and to travel here. The buses are breaking down but from what I have heard and seen some of the shift workers are also close to breaking point.

Stagecoach how can you improve our chances of travelling safely and on time?

– Sue Dubois, Newnham (Better Buses for the Dean).