Had Mr French been sincere in his concern for passengers he would have reduced all fares to 80p.

The 25 per cent increase will make many realise that it is better value to motor across from here to Lewes and have a far more civilized afternoon than is available in Brighton, and in less time.

Mr French also made the outlandish claim that the proffering of pound coins would speed up journeys.

Are we forbidden to expect change from a 50p and three 20p coins?

-Charles Goode, Third Avenue, Hove