I READ the article "Coach Scandal" (Bury Times, Mar 2). As the holder of a Class I PSV licence I occasionally drive schoolchildren, though not on a regular daily contract basis.

As a ratepayer, grandparent and school governor, I was very concerned to learn that unqualified drivers had been ferrying our schoolchildren to and from school.

I had a conversation with both Mr M. Shaft in financial services and Mrs A. Vernon, head of financial services. I informed them that I had read all the correspondence between their department and Mr Dart of Freebird Coaches and I gained the distinct impression that they thought they had dealt adequately with the problem.

May I respectfully point out that Bury financial services should not be assessing possible traffic offences as to whether or not any further action should be taken. There is a big difference between a PSV licence and an ordinary car licence. The test for a PSV is much more intense, and higher standards must be met. Most important of all, PSV and HGV drivers have to undergo a very rigorous medical examination.

Other local authorities have encountered this problem and dealt with it effectively and hopefully Bury will follow suit. In the meantime, I implore all governors, teachers and escorts to demand the tightest control on individuals entrusted with our children's safety. And in a footnote to Bury financial services, may I add that cheapest is often very far from the best, particularly where safety and reliability are concerned.

W. F. LAW,

Parkhills Road, Bury.