YOU cannot blame parents for their frustration and disappointment at Stagecoach's decision to drop the school bus service from Rodbourne Cheney to Commonweal School

It is, of course, not unfeasible that children from Rodbourne could walk the two and a half mile route to and from school, as many children used to in the past.

But these days, there are other concerns.

Parents are justifiably concerned about their children's welfare and the fear of abduction and attack.

As one mum points out, she does not want her child wandering through Faringdon Road Park, which has a poor reputation following several attacks on people this year.

In addition, travelling by car is not an ideal option, with the obvious problem of road congestion.

And then there is the less than perfect weather to think about at this time of year.

However, looking at the problem from Stagecoach's point of view, there are obvious commercial concerns it has to consider.

With the council too short of funds to continue to subsidise such services, it seems parents are stuck with having to pay more for the alternative, indirect bus service.