A DISTRAUGHT grandmother has today spoken of her fears that she will become housebound as a result of cuts to bus services in Ipswich.

A DISTRAUGHT grandmother has today spoken of her fears that she will become housebound as a result of cuts to bus services in Ipswich.

Freda Slade, 88, of Dales Road, Ipswich, said the number 19 bus from the town centre to Castle Hill currently provided a lifeline to her and many of her friends.

But that route is one of three that will be cut after Ipswich Borough Council's decision to raid Ipswich Buses' finances.

Mother-of-three Mrs Slade said: “It seems a barmy idea to cut the service. It will take away my independence; I shall never be able to go out.

“I know at the moment I'm very lucky in that I have a bus stop outside my house. I can go to the hairdressers or to get my food shopping and it is very easy.

“But although I can walk with a stick or a trolley I get out of breath easily so I'm not going to be able to get into town anymore.

“Taxis are too expensive so if there are no buses I don't go out. I don't know how I'll manage.”

Mrs Slade, a widow, said she thought she would be able to get some help from her daughters but said the decision to axe the service would have negative consequences for many people.

She added: “It's not only me. Lots of people are upset about it. They are surprised as well because it is a busy bus route, one that is essential.”