In the midst of one of the hottest spells since records began, I find it difficult to understand why buses still have their heating turned on.

On average, I catch about ten buses each week and at least 50 per cent of them have heating on at one level or another, with one at what must have been maximum on the hottest day so far.

I don't imagine it costs much to run, as it is part of the cooling system, but if some can have it turned off, why can't they all?

Apart from anything else, the extra heat could be dangerous for the elderly.

Roger French replies: The water valves which control our bus heating systems are switched off but, in a few cases, if water gets through, it may appear the heating is on. At this point, systems are checked and we ensure the valve is tightened and the fault rectified.

Our drivers provide excellent feedback on such faults and we are grateful for passenger feedback, too.

-Roger French, managing director, Brighton and Hove Bus Company