I was shocked and dismayed to read (Gazette, January 19, 'Grant ruling sparks anger') of Cumbria County Council's decision to return some £104,000 of a grant, to support rural transport.
The Friends of the 597, a voluntary group, has to earn, donate or beg from trusts and others, £8,000 per year to support the 597 Windermere and Bowness Circular bus service.
It only runs on three mornings per week but is a lifeline for elderly, lonely and less able people.
Being 'Hail and Ride' and visiting Goodly Dale Health Centre, the shops and services of the village and the station, the service allows almost door-to-door travel for all who live on or near the route.
And who do we have to pay this money to? None other than Cumbria County Council - the same authority that axes its subsidy on the service over two years ago, and the same authority that now appears unable to use a government grant for transport!
What a ridiculous situation!
Allan Sykes
Secretary, Fo597
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