Most journeys to Oxford hospitals are made by car and more often than not, drivers have to fight to get a parking space.

Other people, mainly pensioners, have to resort to public transport.

May I suggest that consideration is given to introducing an 'Inner Circle' bus service, which might attract many car drivers, and would reduce pollution and possibly travelling time for hospital outpatients and visitors.

The present situation can only get worse as hospital car parks reach saturation point, patients live longer and the John Radcliffe Hospital expands.

My idea is that the buses would run between 9am and 4pm.

The route would be Seacourt park-and-ride, Radcliffe Infirmary, Pear Tree park-and-ride, John Radcliffe, Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Churchill Hospital, Thornhill park-and-ride.

If four vehicles were used, a 20- to 30-minute gap could link with other bus services.

One of the vehicles could be that which currently plies between Thornhill and the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre. Initial funding for the remainder may be forthcoming from the Lottery.

My letter is intended to be a catalyst for future discussion. No doubt there will be "againsts" and perhaps "fors" for my suggestion.

However, if it met a favourable response, perhaps we could have a pilot scheme for six months.

Just think of the reduction in pollution. Richard Thurman, Woodstock