BUS services are a lifeline to many people, especially (but not exclusively) for those in rural communities.

Not everybody can drive. Not everyone can afford a car. Few can afford the cost of taxis, particularly if they live out in the more remote parts of Worcestershire, far from larger cities and towns.

Buses are vital, for example, to many elderly people who want to do their shopping or want to visit family. Once lockdown is over and normal life begins to resume there is a very real danger that people who are already social distancing and self-isolating, shielded groups, may remain isolated if bus services cannot survive this crisis. It is the buses which keep them in touch with the wider world. They may not get the credit reserved for the NHS, but our bus and coach drivers have also been brave, also vital and now need our help. Those staff who are not on furlough have been risking their lives to keep us as connected as we can be in these strange and uncertain times.

With a recession looming, money will soon be short and there must be drivers, bus company managers and customers who are deeply worried.