RECENTLY I had to drive to Stansted Airport to pick up my daughter, her three young children, luggage and pushchair at 10.15am.

My route was M3, M25, M11 and the round trip was some 240 miles.

To be at the airport on time I had to travel at peak time which I understand will cost £1.30 per mile. So the journey up cost £156. Return journey not at peak time say 30p per mile cost £36. On top of this is also the fuel consumed which was approx 35 litres, cost £31.50. Cost (exclusive of airport car park) £223.50 for a journey that had to be made at that time.

How can the normal private motorist afford to run a car and have the freedom and convenience it gives if one necessary journey costs this much?

M D GARDINER, Chandler's Ford.