BARELY a week after Blackburn with Darwen Council's expensive extravaganza in the park, complete with fireworks and 'Land of Hope and Glory,' we learn of their plan to cut children's school bus services from September.

Where were the fanfares and marketing drive for this decision?

Is the council not concerned for the safety of its young people and children -- some as young as 11, going to secondary school for the first time, as they dodge the now-increased traffic on their dangerous walk to school?

Indeed, is this purely a financial decision or are we witnessing a clumsy, New Labour attempt at social control to dissuade parents from sending their offspring to church schools?

Such schools, remember, may be OK for senior members of New Labour, but not quite the ticket for the proletariat.

On a brighter note, well done Council of the Year, you have politicised my children at a stroke! Maybe in a couple of years or so, they will use their vote after all, so beware, Councillor Buggins!

We remember Thatcher for snatching our school milk. They may remember Blackburn with Darwen for snatching their school buses and putting their lives at risk.

If this is how we do it in Cool Britannia's BwD, come back Lancashire County Council, all is forgiven.

DAVID METCALFE, Mollington Road, Blackburn.