AS the government allows more shops and businesses to re-open in an attempt to revitalise the economy, albeit with certain guidelines, it will only bear fruit if people can feel confident enough to travel to towns and cities in a safe environment.

Currently all the public transport passenger numbers are running way below capacity (a far cry from the past overcrowding) and now the Prime Minister has further indicated that those who have been working from home should return to their main offices.

These comments will surely have real impact with public transport usage and more importantly the financial stimulus to transport budgets.

There is no doubt that the optimism is there with the general public to support the economy, but until people respond with a positive attitude to travel with public transport then the prosperity envisaged by the government may not be realised.

D Wearmouth, Shildon.