I am writing regarding the 957c Silsden/Skipton bus service, which is to be withdrawn in September 2014.

This bus service serves the many Silsden children who attend the three secondary schools and Craven College in Skipton. It is, in fact, the only direct bus service from Silsden to Skipton. Apparently, a ‘consultation’ was carried out during September 2013 and concluded in December 2013, which stated the bus service was to be withdrawn.

The word ‘consult’ should indeed be used quite loosely as I understand the schools involved were not informed; none of the parents nor the children were notified.

North Yorkshire County Council does not appear to have consulted Bradford Council, nor has it informed Silsden Town Council.

As a parent whose child attends a Skipton school, I feel very angry I have not had the opportunity to raise my objections during the consultation. I have spoken to many other parents involved, who have also expressed concern about the situation as there is no alternative direct bus service to Skipton.

None of the parents said they would be happy for their children to walk to the railway station at Steeton or to catch a bus from Steeton Top; not just because of the considerable walking distance but because the parents refuse to allow their children to cross the busy, dangerous Airedale bypass.

This situation will not only affect the 30-plus Silsden youngsters who regularly use this bus service, including the children who get on in Kildwick and Farnhill, but will also have a huge impact on the Silsden children, who will be starting at the Skipton schools in September this year and in years to come.

The bus service can only in part be subsidised by NYCC as the children have always had to pay to use this service. There are no reduced passes available as the bus goes across the county border. It is understood NYCC has to make savings where it is practicable, but to cut a heavily-used service so many depend on seems to be an incomprehensible decision.

In addition, as a co-author of the Silsden Survey, our analysis showed a strong support by the Silsden residents for an improved direct bus service to Skipton. This was not just for the schoolchildren but for shoppers and workers too. I would like to thank Silsden Mayor Councillor Christopher Atkinson for coming to speak to the children and helping to publicise this issue. It is hoped NYCC will now look again at this vital bus service given its complete failure to consult with any of the actual bus users, and now work with the bus company to reinstate the service or offer an alternative for the many youngsters who rely on this service to get to school.

Rebecca Whitaker Silsden