I READ with interest of the hopes and wishes for the new year of the leader of Darlington Borough Council, Bill Dixon (Echo, Dec 29). Apparently, he would like to see a new leisure centre completed by next Christmas.

While everyone is entitled to their own wishes many villagers without transport in Sadberge would like a bus service in order to see Mr Dixon’s grandiose schemes should they be granted.

Bus services to Sadberge have now ceased as no subsidy can be found, not only will this cut off access to doctors, hospitals, shops and post offices etc but to anyone wishing to participate in Mr Dixon’s vision of a new Darlington (as well as the present one).

Will the council be offering any help to these people? After all we are in Darlington borough and as such pay our taxes like everybody else.

Don Taylor, Sadberge.