Mr P Mole, of Applegarth Avenue, Newton Abbot, writes:

As the government are asking us, the general public, for our contributions on ways to save money then perhaps some official could price up my suggestions on the subject of bus passes for the elderly.

If the lower age limit was increased to 65, as to be fair, the majority in the lower aged category would still be in full time employment, then I'm sure big money could be saved. Perhaps an annual contribution of, say £10, would also assist in bridging the financial gap. I know £10 is perhaps a lot of money to some people but when you think that this sum could be saved on one trip or outing I think this is then put into perspective.

To help with the affordability of this annual contribution perhaps vouchers could go on sale for friends and relatives to purchase and hopefully be used as gifts. It's just a thought but I'm sure it would work.

Before I put my soap box away, may I mention the electric atmosphere that permeated the pedestrian way in town last wednesday (cheese and onion fair day).

The lovely music coming from the large motorised organ and the bells of the tower were magic. I stood and gazed for a while and noticed the smiles, the spring in people's steps and I even saw more than one couple dance.

Perhaps in these 'belt tightening' times we could do with a little more of the medicine that was served to us on that day.MORE LETTERS ONLINE