In the wake of the demise of GHA Coaches I would like to confirm to residents that everything possible is being looked at to improve services through Middlewich.

However frustrating we find the brick walls which seemingly face us every time we press for action on critically important issues like public transport, it is also important to continue the pursuit through set protocols, policies and procedures.

The reason for this, of course, is quite simple... these are the rules and regulations to which we, as councillors, have to adhere.

It was concerning to read in the Guardian that town councillor David Williams has seen fit to launch an attack on the Town Clerk, following the GHA collapse, accusing him of ‘inaction’.

Given that the town council has absolutely no control whatsoever over public transport services, I find it hugely disappointing that a councillor should feel the need to act in such a manner.

Over the past 12 months, reference to my reports and communications I have had with officers at Cheshire East would have allowed Cllr Williams to realise that the answers were beyond the town council’s control.

Immediately the crisis hit, I again went to Cheshire East Transport management to highlight, above all else, the loss of the town’s only bus link to Leighton Hospital.

The fact that they were able to respond so quickly to getting a replacement service in place is something for which I feel they and D & G Buses should be congratulated. Cheshire East ward councillors have been able to help orchestrate the forthcoming transport and travel consultation, which will commence on August 15 and runs until September 16.

During this period, residents will have plenty of chance through questionnaires and face to face meetings.

Cllr Mike Parsons