Don’t leave locals standing for a bus

However, there is one serious problem. That is the 91 and 92 service. Over the past seven years we have stayed at L’Eree Bay Hotel and have used this service nearly every day. The problem arises when there is a cruise ship in and they all hop on the 91/92 to go round the island, leaving locals unable to get on the bus. I fully appreciate that cruise ships are important to the island economy (living in Cornwall, we also have a short season and rely on tourists to put money into our economy). However, this is of little help when locals are unable to go about their daily business. We have been left standing at the bus stop with people trying to get to work, or get to the airport. One lady told us that even if she tried to phone for a taxi she would invariably have to wait for a long time until one was available.

I have raised this matter before both on Guernsey radio and through your columns. I have been informed by the bus company that when a cruise ship is in they will put on an extra bus to cope with the extra passengers. I have yet to see this ‘extra bus’.

Surely it is not beyond the imagination of the bus company to arrange a proper sightseeing tour with a guide so that these visitors can get a proper understanding of Guernsey and its history. On one occasion this holiday I engaged in conversation an American couple who had no idea that the Channel Islands had been occupied by the Germans during the Second World War. They sit there with their maps and have no idea what they are seeing. What a shame.

We were also left standing on the final day of our holiday when trying to get to the airport for our flight back to Exeter. I would like to thank the gentleman who saw our plight and drove us to the airport. What a good Samaritan.

We shall be returning to Guernsey next year to catch up with friends and family.

PAT STEARN (Mrs),

Lostwithiel,

Cornwall.