Rules are rules, and we understand the difficult position Swindon Borough Council finds itself in.

But you have to feel sorry for special needs pupil Jade Lees.

If she lived just 200 yards further away from her school, she would be eligible for free travel to school. Her alternatives are to walk almost three miles or take a tortuous bus route via the town centre.

Surely something can be done to help Jade. The importance of her education must override the red tape which is preventing her from attending lessons.