I AM legally disabled with an unusual neurological condition and as an 81-year-old widower, with my children living abroad, I always have to travel alone.

In 1996, I was transferred for tests and treatment from Surrey to the wonderful old Radcliffe Infirmary and have lived in Oxford ever since.

Travelling to and from London by train may be fine for commuters, but for me it was a nightmare until I discovered the Oxford Tube.

Since then every journey has been a pleasure. My disablement is not prominently visible, but (unlike many impatient passengers) invariably the Tube drivers have been observant, and helpful if I have a bag.

To the bus station staff at Gloucester Green, I say: whatever the weather, whatever the time of day or night, you are right there to help with your cheery banter. Thank you.

A quick calculation will tell you that the London Tube has taken 45 million of us in comfort and safety 100 million miles – that’s 5,000 times around the circumference of the earth, or the distance from here to the sun. Congratulations again.

Dr L ALAN EYRE, West Way, Botley