What a strange letter from Aaron Berry from Worthing (Letters, May 7).

He refers to Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company "spiralling downwards after several decades of mismanagement" but provides no facts to support this view.

He appears to be totally unaware that it is one of the most successful operators in the country, as evidenced by the number of awards it has won over the past five years.

Mr Berry cites Phoenix, Arizona, because it offers a fare of $1 for three hours' travel.

No doubt a similar fare could be charged in Brighton and Hove if the city council was prepared to subsidise the cost and council taxpayers were willing to bear the additional charge.

P J Benham (Letters, same day) suggests the company should concentrate on maintaining its older buses instead of buying new ones and mentions London Transport as having done this.

It may come as some surprise to him to learn that London Transport no longer exists. Buses in London are operated by numerous companies.

Some of these companies have spent a good deal of money renovating old RM-class buses but many people doubt the wisdom of this.

The Routemaster was an excellent vehicle in its time (40 or more years ago) but does not meet modern needs, particularly as it has an open rear platform and requires a conductor.

Mr Berry does not mention the reduction in the Saver ticket. This is what I shall be using.

-Peter E H Bailey, Brighton