I FEEL it important to set the record straight following last week's letter concerning bus fare discounts and the Council's 11-21 LINC scheme.

The 11-21 LINC scheme launched in August 1996 is a major investment improving levels of information on what is available to young people.

The scheme has proved popular with 20,000 members to date. It also secures financial discounts for young people when using facilities.

Where such facilities are under direct Council control it is relatively easy to determine the level of discount and when or where it should be applied.

Obviously the potential loss of income as a result does have to be met within the Council's budget.

We also seek discounts with private sector companies some 300 of which participate in the 11-21 LINC scheme. We are unable to subsidise companies for this but act as advocates of young people and promote benefits to attempt to agree discounts.

In respect of bus travel discounts we have tried with some difficulty for two years to secure these across the borough.

We have reached agreement with Blue Bus of Horwich and First Manchester in their Wigan Orange Segment area.

While I share the writer's disappointment that First Manchester's discount doesn't extend to Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley, it is a pilot scheme which will be monitored closely.

Rather than criticising this initiative, residents should feel proud they live in an area offering one of the most imaginative and successful schemes to young people.

The new bus discount with First Manchester may not be ideal but it represents a major step forward and offers advantages not available to young people elsewhere in Greater Manchester.

DEREK POTTS

Commercial Manager

Leisure Services Department

Wigan MBC

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