I beg leave to acquaint your readers with the fiasco of a meeting at which I was present, held in the Civic Offices (Tuesday, October 24) to discuss concessionary travel.

Chairman Kelvin King indicated that following widespread consultation there was preference for Option One (half fare bus pass or £40 worth of bus travel on magnetic cards).

Examination of the letters from various groups contained in minutes for the meeting totally contradicted the chairman's remarks.

The Wiltshire Association of Local Councils Swindon area committee was unable to recommend a preferred option, not having been given sufficient time to consult its members. The chairman of the Lawn Community Association was only able to give his personal opinion for the same reason.

The Croft and Larra Community Council complained that its answer had been a rushed decision because of the short notice received from Swindon Borough Council.

The most frightening aspect from my viewpoint concerns the fact that not one of the councillors present challenged the claim that widespread consultation has taken place, in the light of evidence to the contrary contained in the minutes.

FRANK AVENELL

Beckhampton Street

Swindon