THE report (LET, May 19) that trolley buses are being considered as part of a major public transport initiative for East Lancashire was most interesting.

Trolley bus design has developed significantly from the 1950s British trolley bus which illustrated the article. During a recent holiday in Austria, I travelled on the efficient and comfortable trolley buses operated by the city of Linz.

There, trolley bus, tram, bus and local train services are fully integrated. An all-purpose ticket is valid on all vehicles regardless of operator.

The introduction of fume-free, quiet and efficient trolley buses would be a boon to public transport users. Additionally, they would help reduce air and noise pollution - to the benefit of all.

It is to be hoped local politicians and transport operators can work together to provide East Lancashire with a fully integrated and environmentally-friendly public transport system.

BOB HAYES, Cross Barn Walk, Darwen.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.