In response to many complaints from bus passengers regarding increasing amount of breakdowns, I have some positive news. My thanks goes to Ian Manning, M.D Stagecoach Glou­cestershire, Alan Barrett, integrated transport manager Glos CC Jenny Pow­ell, customer services Stagecoach, Forest and Wye and Gloucester, and Diana Edwards Forest of Dean District Council cabinet. They all responded to my plea for support in my lobbying.

Breakdowns: In future passengers will not have to wait for a mechanic. A replacement bus will be sent from Gloucester depot to cut down waiting time.

Quality inspectors and service monitors are looking at the timing of all bus services. A "Snowplan" is being produced now to ensure bus routes are well gritted up front.

Ian Manning, MD, has put together a request for new buses for the Forest and we will know in December. If we get new stock they will become operative in the next financial year.

Service 24: This service has been evaluated for viability. It will continue to operate between Joys Green and Gloucester at the same service level. The route between Joys Green and Ross is still being evaluated. However whatever the outcome the route 35 will continue to run from Joys Green to Ross.

Service 23: May be re routed through Templeway instead of Bream Road into the centre of Lydney. The County Council is looking at safety of this route for low level buses and bus stops.

Regarding passengers being given time to get upstairs, sit down or get off before a driver pulls out again, all drivers are now aware they must not start off if passengers' safety is in doubt. If you fall you must complain in writing or it will not be properly logged.

Stagecoach is not subsidised except for isolated services ie. some Sunday services. In these economically challenged times they are running an excellent service under great constraints. Please note that no other bus companies have come forward to tender for Forest routes.

Lydney Bus Station: I understand work will begin in early 2013. They hope to open in March. There will be no WC at the premises.

Meanwhile it would be good to have at least some lights while waiting during dark evenings.

I know bus drivers work very hard, long hours and they are usually very helpful. Let's hope that they and us get some nice shiny red buses for Christmas

– Sue Dubois (Better Buses for the Dean).