I am delighted to know that the National Bus Pass is to be introduced in April, but I am a bit mystified why there is a regional variation in the times we are allowed to travel.

I read your article about Roger Jenking who plans to travel from Oxford to Crewe on April 1 (Oxford Mail, March 6).

I was a bit put out by the fact that, even had I been of the same mind, I couldn't have joined him.

If you live in Cherwell or the Vale of White Horse districts, you are not allowed to use your new National Bus Pass until 9.30am, while people from all other areas can travel from 9am.

If we wished to join this adventurous gentleman, we would either have to miss the first bus or pay full fare - he could start his free journey at 9am, while we would have to wait until 9.30am.

Doesn't sound quite national, does it? It isn't even county, never mind national!

On behalf of all Golden Oldies who live in Cherwell or the Vale, I would like to register my disquiet at the discrimination against us.

If it is discrimination, is it legal?

I do realise that these bus passes are issued by different councils, but surely if a scheme is national, it should be just that - or should it be called a National Bus Pass with Regional Variations?

GWYNNETH COOKE Oxford Road Kidlington