RAIL COSTS SO UNFARE

# I agree with Alison Phillips that it’s “galling” that British rail passengers are faced with the highest fares in Europe, forced on them by foreign-owned rail firms (Mirror, Dec 13).

No fare should cost more than 15p per mile, yet we pay 50p. Let’s not forget either that the industry’s regulators have no teeth, nor that the higher the fare, the more the Government rakes in by way of tax.

The only way to solve the problem is to renationalise, along with the utilities which are also mainly now in foreign ownership. Bob Jolley, Louth, Lincs

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With regard to the recent reports about failing schools, I’m in my 60s and have seen a lot of changes over my lifetime – sadly not all for the better.

Teaching, as with nursing, was once considered a vocation. People entering these professions did so with a real desire to help and the salary came second.

Today, however, attitudes have changed – salary and lifestyle seem to be a priority. I’ve no doubt there are teachers and nurses out there who buck the trend, but there’s a definite move towards reward rather than vocation. Steve Beedy, Wigan

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In your panto round-up (Mirror, Dec 13), you missed out Aladdin in Bridlington starring Lloyd Warbey, Robin Windsor and Asa Elliott. On from tomorrow until January 2. David Marsden Bridlington, East Yorks