The Latest News Updated 2nd January 2009
The Latest News Updated 2nd January 2009
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02/01/09
Happy New Year - May 2009 deliver all that you desire.
Steven Hodgson reports that Stagecoach North East Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 19440 (NK58FNE) is now in service, while many people report the de-roofing of sister 19380 (NK58AEU). Steven notes that MAN 18.220 / Alexander 22174 (T174MVM) has now reached Stockton and passes on a report from Danny Howard that Volvo Olympian / Alexander 16729 (N729LTN) has been noted at Hartlepool.
James Stoker reports that Style Travel, Horden have added MCW Metrobus LOA383X and Volvo B58 / Plaxton B187XJD (1985 body on rebuilt 1974 chassis) to stock.
James Stoker also reports that M&D Travel, Thornaby have added another Toyota Coaster / Caetano to stock - N493RAP.
28/12/08
Neil Wise illustrates a selection of the special Boxing Day bus services that operated in Tyne & wear this year.
News that I've forgotten to mention thus far (sorry, Scott!) is that Stagecoach North East Volvo B10M / Northern Counties 20269/71 (M709/11KRH) have gone on loan to Stagecoach in Sheffield. The highest numbered Enviro 400 noted in service in Newcastle thus far is 19439.
Andrew Chadwick notes that Go North East MPD 491 (V191ERG) is one of a number repainted yellow. The shade is said to be similar to that used for Bargain Bus / Yellow Bus.
Neil Wise notes that Franks, Haswell have Leyland Tiger / Alexander A39XHE in stock.
Not previously noted here is (J)SB Travel, Coundon Optare Solo SB58BUS as photographed by Steven Hodgson. This is understood to have been in use since around September.
26/12/08
Now would seem like a good time to review the current position of Arriva North East's ex Arriva Midlands Scanias. Their current status (as of 24/12/08) is as follows:
| Fleet No. | Reg. No. | Livery | Depot |
| 7259 | M177GRY | Arriva | Durham |
| 7260 | M170GRY | Red | Durham |
| 7261 | M172GRY | Arriva | Jesmond |
| 7262 | M176GRY | Arriva | Jesmond |
| 7263 | N162VVO | Arriva | Peterlee |
| 7264 | N164VVO | Arriva | Peterlee |
| 7265 | N160VVO | Arriva | Blyth |
| 7266 | N163VVO | Red | Ashington |
Mercedes Vario / Plaxton 2673 (R797DUB) is under cannibalisation at Ashington, while Alex Kennedy notes Optare Prisma 3004 (M304SAJ) now working for Loftus.
Astley, Ashington have added Mercedes Vario / Plaxton P822SCL to stock.
20/12/08
Can I take this opportunity to wish all visitors and contributors a Merry Christmas.
Courtesy of Steven Hodgson, it is possible to illustrate Arriva North East Optare Spectra 7457 (L94HRF) in its current role at Bishop Auckland and in its past life in the Midalnds. Steven also reports that Scania N113 / East Lancs 7265 (N160VVO) is in service at Blyth in fleet livery.
Dan Annis reports that Go North East have repainted DAF SB120 / Wright 8273 (NK54NLD) in a similar shade of green to the Lambton Worm SPDs. Steven Hodgson illustrates MPD 540 in blue.
Steven Hodgson and Chris Redpath report that the identies of the new Alexander Dennis Enviro 400s for Stagecoach North East are 19443-46 (NK58FMO/P/U/V/X-Z/NA/C-H/J/M/N). These have all arrived, but the highest noted in service so far is 19436. steven also notes that the MAN A66s at Hartlepool are receiving names.
Joe Curry notes that Franks, Haswell have acquired Volvo B10M / Plaxton F660RTL from Premiere, Nottingham.
James Stoker notes that Durham City Coaches, Brandon have Volvo B12B / Plaxton YN08OWK in use.
Steven Hodgson notes that Altona have a second BMC Probus 850 in stock, this being BX08FBA.
Nathan Brown reports that former Weardale Optare Metrorider K430HWY is in use with an operator in the south east Durham area - probably Dubmire, Hetton.
13/12/08
Two very interesting arrivals at Arriva North East, as reported by Stu Gray, are Optare Spectras L94/5HRF, which are expected to become 7457/8 at Bishop Auckland. Neil Wise reports that Scania N113 / East Lancs 7266 (N163VVO) operated breifly for Darlington this week, but has been sent back to Jesmond after being found to be too tall for some routes. Stu Gray notes that Leyland Olympian / Alexander 7278 (J354BSH) appears to be withdrawn at Jesmond, while Chris Hall today noted 7271/2 (L271/2FVN) heading to one of the Barnsley dealers/breakers (7271 on tow, 7272 under own power).
Steven Hodgson reports that Stagecoach North East have repainted Volvo B10M / Alexander 20552 (P552ESA) in a special pink version of Stagecoach livery for the X34, believed to be used in conjunction with a Breast Cancer charity campaign. He also pictures new Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 19431 (NK58FMP) in service, branded for service 1.
Lee Wardle reports that Go North East MPDs 538-40 (NA52AXB-D) have joined 535-7 (NA52AWX) in blue and that Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3909/13 (R267/71LGH) are now yellow.
John Atkin illustrates Tees Valley, Eaglescliffe recently acquired Leyland Olympian / ECW B151TRN and confirms it to be a fine machine. Peter Tuck reports that Metrobus POG592Y, which was operated here ex Kingsleys until recently, is now in Malta and under conversion to open top.
Steven Hodgson notes a further Optare Solo with Weardale, Stanhope as MX07NTJ. I beleive this one is usually used on Crook Town service 84.
Peter Nardone notes that Rainbow Coaches, Billingham have coach S779OHN in stock.
Peter also reports that new at Atkinsons, Ingleby Arncliffe is BX58EOL - presumably a Mercedes coach from its Birmingham registration.
06/12/08
Neil Wise, Neil Watson, Lee Wardle and Paul Francis all report that Arriva North East Scania N113 / East Lancs 7261/3 (M172GRY, N162VVO) have been repainted into Arriva livery and are operating at Jesmond and Peterlee, respectively. Additionally, 7266 has donned Arriva fleetnames and Arriva Durham County legals on red livery. Alex Kennedy notes that Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1697 (M197YKA) is now at Bishop Auckland, Optare Prisma 3025 (N525XVN) is back in use at Loftus after a lengthy lay-off and that Optare Vecta 1528 (L528FHN) is parked up at Loftus awaiting repair and has yet to reach Redcar. Optare Vecta 1555 (M504AJC) is withdrawn, as is Leyland Olympian / Alexander 7272 (L272FVN).
From a combination of my own sightings, those of Lee Wardle & Andrew Lawson and the company website I have compiled the latest movements at Go North East. Volvo B10M / Plaxton 7082/4 (Y782/4MFT) have joined 7083 (Y783MFT) in use at Gateshead, largely as duplicates and non-core workings on the X10. Leyland Olympian / Alexander 3947/8 (H481/5PVW) have gained Yellow Bus branding. SPD 8214 (V214ERG) is now at Chester-le-Street, with Dennis Dart SLF / Caetano 8282 (T429LGP) going to Deptford. Vehicles withdrawn are Leyland Olympian / Northern Counties 3807/9/10 (F107UEF, K109/10YVN), Optare Solo 453/60 (S253KNL, T460BCN), Dennis Lance / Plaxton 4774 (L141YTY), Optare Delta 4792/3 (M792/3HCU) and Volvo B10B / Alexander 4812 (L212KEF).
Danny Howard reports that Stagecoach North East Volvo B10M / Northern Counties 20246 (M546SPY), Volvo Olympian / Alexander 16730 (N730LTN) and Dennis Dart / Alexander 32731 (L731VNL) are all parked up and having parts removed at Walkergate, as is Volvo B10M / Northern Counties 20249 (M549SPY) at Slatyford, where Dennis Dart / Alexander 32569 (K569NHC) and Plaxton bodied 32128 (K128SRH) are under more prolonged cannibalisation. Leyland Olympian / Northern Counties 14672 (H672BNL) and Transbus Dart SLF 34561 (NK04KZU) remain off the road at Hartlepool, while Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 20271 (M711KRH) is delicenced at Stockton. Photos of several of these can be seen on Danny's website. Steven Hodgson reports that at third Dennis Dart / Plaxton is in use on Quaylink - 32121 (K121SRH).
Joe Curry reports that Stanley Taxis, Oxhill have Volvo B10M / Van Hool VIL1459 in use ex K&J, York.
Andrew Rasmussen and James Stoker report that Tees Valley, Eaglescliffe have added Volvo D10M / East Lancs H650GPF and Leyland Olympian / ECW B151TRN to stock ex Stafford Bus Centre and P&O Lloyd, respectively.
26/11/08
Lee Wardle notes that Arriva North East Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1696/7 (M186/97YKA) are both parked up at Jesmond, the latter being prepared for repaint. It was also noted that most of the red Scania deckers appeared to have been moved out.
steven Hodgson reports that Go North East SPD 8213 (V213ERG) is now at Deptford and that Scania Omnicity 5263 is now in full cream.
It is reported that the first of the latest batch of new Stagecoach North East Alexander Dennis Enviro 400s is now arriving for service 1 in Newcastle. Four have been delivered as 19430-3 (NK58FMO/P/U/V), with thirteen more due. Chris Redpath notes that Volvo B10Ms 20272/722 (M712KRH, K722DAO) are moving over to driver training duties.
Joe Curry has spotted Tees Valley, Eaglescliffe Dennis Javelin / Plaxton RPP514 and Volvo B10M / Jonkherre M10TVT on ebay.
James Stoker notes DAF SB3000 / Plaxton (Paramount 4000) RJI8609 with Park Lane Travel, Middlesbrough ex Sussex Coaches - I beleive it has been in stock since August.
23/11/08
Ten Arriva North East vehicles transferred from Loftus to Redcar with the transfer of services X3/X4, comprising Optare Prismas 3003/6-8/14/6 (M303SAJ, N806-8XHN, N514/6XVN) and Optare Vectas 1524/8/34/6 (L524/8/34/6FHN), as reported by Wayne Picknett. Alex Kennedy notes that Loftus have received Optare Prisma 3002 (M302SAJ) from Durham, while Lee Wardle notes that Blyth now have DAF SB220GS / Ikarus 4075 (T75AUA) in use after repaint. Andrew Sewell notes that three further red Scania N113 / East Lancs have arrived at Jesmond from the Midlands, these veing N160/3/4VVO. Stu Gray notes that Optare Metrorider 2643 (P643FHN) is now stored at Bisop Auckland and Lee Wardle notes that sister 921 (R921JNL) is stored at Hexham. DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4056 (S356KHN) is out of use with minor fire damage.
Steven Hodgson reports that Go North East Dennis Trident / East Lancs 2865 (W865PNL) is now pink and Scania Omnicities 5267/8 (NK56KKC, NO07GJO) are now cream, one now with Coaster logo on the front. He also notes that MPDs 535/6 (NA52AWX/Y) are now in a similar shade of blue to that used onthe park & ride Solos, MPD 541 (NA52AXF) is white, Scania L94UB / Wright 4938 (NK51OKX) is white and at Washington, and that Dennis Trident / Plaxton 3891 (NK51UCU) now has updated DFDS vinyls. "Slimlinesolo" notes that the new Bargain Bus X44/X45/144 routes begin tomorrow and that the X44/144 should use two Volvo Olympians and a DAF, with the remaining Bargain Bus services being all provided by DAFs. Volvo B10B / Alexander 4809/75 (L209KEF, N950TVK) are expected to remain at Ashington, with the other B10Bs and Deltas becoming redundant. Lee Wardle notes that ex Bargain Bus Leyland Olympian / Northern Counties 3953 (G522VBB) now has School Bus vinyls and that the branding on the Lime vehicles has been ammended to reflect their use on the 15.
Richard Smiles reports that Stagecoach North East MAN 18.220 / Alexander 22199 (T199MVM) is now in use, refurbished at Stockton, while Danny Howard reports Volvo B10M / Northern Counties 20300 (M410SPY) is repainted but its new allocation (ex Stockon) is not yet known.
Paul Thompson tells me that his Leven Valley fleet has returned Optare Solo 1 "Iona" (T11GAJ) to Mistral at the end of its lease, freshly repainted white. Note that the cherished plate has been retained, so the Solo will presumably gain an MX56xxx plate. Richard Smiles adds that sister vehicle 2 "St Columba" (T12GAJ) is also repainted white, but is to remain in stock for the time being.
Lee Wardle reports that Hunters, Tantobie have Mercedes 709 / Alexander M196SRR in stock ex Procters.
John Atkin and James Stoker provide some sightings from Tees Valley, Eaglescliffe. A pair of Plaxton bodied Dennis Javelins are in stock, one being WLT642, the other arriving as WIL9574, but reverting to an "E" plate. Also in stock is Volvo B10M / Van Hool 852YYC. Leyland Tiger / Plaxton C212PPE is sold to Skelton Coaches, while JIL and PIL are sold and POG592Y, RPP514 and M10TVT are for sale.
John Atkin reports that Skelton Coaches, Charltons Leyland Tiger / Plaxton C212PPE and YIL2179, the former ex Tees Valley and the latter ex Glovers, Ashbourne.
James Stoker reports that M&D Travel, Thornaby have Toyota Coaster / Caetano J71JUR in stock.
15/11/08
Steven Hodgson reports that Arriva North East Volvo olympian / Northern Counties 7377 (M377FTY) has gained an eye-searing overall advert for Nokia and that Scania L113 / East Lancs 282 (N282NCN) is a second one repainted and on the X1 for Durham. Neil Wise reports that Optare Metrorider 2724 (R724MHN) is now at Alnwick, while sister 2722 (R722MHN) is now stored at Peterlee. Vehicles removed from Redcar depot (largely by Trevor Wigley) are Optare Metroriders 887-9/92/3/7/901, 2630/6/7/45, 2720/1 (N887RTN, N192RVK, N889RTN, P892/3XCU, P56/61XTN, P630/6/7/45FHN, R720/1MHN) and DAF SB220 / Ikarus 4087 (J414NCP) - thanks to Wayne for the reports.
Steven Hodgson, Jeff Hodgson, & Gary Mitchelhill between them report that Go North East Dennis Trident / East Lancs 3863/4/8 (W863/4PNL, W178SCU) are at Chester-le-Street. 3863 is now pink and 3868 retains white livery. Conversely, Scania Omnicties 5266/8 (NK56KKB, NK07GJO) are at Percy Main, both in cream. Steven also illustrates DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4891 (S891ONL) in Bargain Bus livery. Services X1/X2/X3/X30/X31, which were recently re-routed via the Swing Bridge on northbound journeys are to return to using the Tyne Bridge owing to a combination of opposition from Newcastle City Council and unexpectedly long journey times via the swing bridge.
Stagecoach North East Volvo B10M / Alexander 20730 (K730DAO) is parked up out of use at the Wheatsheaf, while Dennis Darts 32182/701/42 (K857LGN, J701KCU, L742VNL) are stored at Stockton.
Stu Gray reports that Scarlet Band, West Cornforth have acquired Mercedes Vario / Mellor S280LGA.
Andrew Rasmussen reports that Tees Valley, Eaglescliffe Dennis Condor / Duple Metsec G863FVX is confirmed as having left the fleet.
04/11/08
Various people report that Arriva North East's Loftus depot is to lose services X3/X4 Middlesbrough - Loftus to Redcar depot from 17/11/08, as the run down of Loftus kicks off. Stuart Gray notes that Scania L113 / East Lancs 288 (N288NCN) is now at Bishop Auckland, while OPptare Vectas 1549/51 (L549/51GHN) have moved from there to Stockton. Wayne Picknett reports that Optare Metroriders 892/7 (P892XCU, P56XTN) are now withdrawn at Redcar (as is 2721, I beleive) and that Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1697 (M197YKA) has moved to Ashington.
Steven Hodgson notes that Go North East Dennis Trident / East Lancs 3804/61 (V804EBR, W861PNL) are both now pink at Chester-le-Street, with Scania Omnicity 5265 (NK65KKA) being in full cream at Percy Main, as also noted by Daryl Mitchelhill. Steven also notes that DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4870 (S870ONL) is another now in Bargain Bus livery at Ashington. Other recent movements not previously listed are of Scania Omnicity 5264 (NK56KJZ) to Percy Main, Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3811 (S811FVK), DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4867/8 (S867/8ONL) to Ashington, MPD 487 (V187ERG), Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3831 (S831OFT) to Washington, Volvo B10BLE / Wright 4896-8/911 (V986-8ETN, W411SCU) to Stanley, MPDs 488/9 (V188/9ERG), Dennis Dart SLF / Caetano 8282-4 (T429/30LGP, V424KGF), Dennis Dart SLF / Plaxton 8289/91 (Y558KUX, S783RNE) to Chester-le-Street, Volvo B10BLE / Wright 4922 (X922WGR) to Gateshead and MPDs 491/6-500 (V191/6-9/820ERG), SPDs 8214/5 (V214/5ERG), Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3932 (R391LGH) to Deptford. Dennis Dart SLF / Marshall 575-7/9-82 (T101-3/5/10KGP, T272RMY, T112KGP), Optare Delta 4759/89-91 (K759SBB, M789-91HCU) and Optare Sigma 4779 (L479CFT) are withdrawn, while Optare Delta 4752 (G752UCU), Leyland Tiger / East Lancs 4994 (C141SPB), Leyland Lynx II 4995 (J652UHN) and Optare Solos 449/52/63/5 (S249/52KNL, T463/5BCN) are sold. Steven Hodgson notes that Dennis Trident / East Lancs 3867 (W177SCU) is now in the latest DFDS scheme. Jeff Hodgson reports that the full Angel/Coaster swap is expected to encompass Dennis Tridents 3803/4/61/3-5/8/72 (V803/4EBR, W861/3-5PNL, W178/82SCU) and Scania Omnicities 5262-9 (NK56KJX-X/KKA-C, NK07GJO, NK56KKE). Former OK Travel rear-engined Leyland Tiger / ECW Q723GHG, now preserved with TM Travel, made an appearance at the Lincoln Museum on Sunday, looking smart in an OK-esque adaptation of TM Travel livery.
Joe Curry notes that Durham City Coaches have Volvo B10M / Van Hool A16TVL ex Sim's, Eskdale.
27/10/08
Alex Kennedy noted Arriva North East 7261/3 (M172GRY, N162VVO) on the forecourt at Jesmond depot on Saturday, still in red (in which they are now expected to stay) and displaying a selection of destinations that a clearly intended to raise eyebrows! No word has been received on which services they are to be used, but I have a suspicion or two. Alex and Steven Hodgson both note Scania L113 / East Lancs 280 (P814VTY) now repainted and working for Durham. Wayne Picknett reports that Optare Metrorider 897 (P56XTN) has moved from Loftus to Redcar, though it is not known yet if it is for service there or storage. Former 3761 (VBG93V) has again appeared on ebay.
Steven Hodgson notes Go North East Dennis Trident / East Lancs 3803 (V803EBR) is now at Chester-le-Street in allover pink and that Scania Omnicity 5263 (NK56KJY) is at Percy Main in pink with cream ends. Daz T reports that eight of each are to swap. Revised Washington area services have now begun, with the Red and Silver Arrows Mercedes Citaros now all working with full branding. Note that on Sundays service 2A/C interworks with the M2 to form a Heworth - Sunderland service. Other movements reported by John Tyson, Daz T, Lee Wardle, Steven Hodgson and Ian Gordon are of Scania L94UB / Wright 4970 (NK53UNW) to Deptford, Volvo B10BLE / Wright 4923 (X923WGR) to Percy Main, Optare Solo 613/5/7 (NM02DNU, VU52UEE, MX53FEF), Leyland Olympian / Alexander 3952 (H550PVW), Leyland Olympian / Northern Counties 3953/5 (G522/8VBB), Volvo B10BLE / Wright 4912 (X912WGR) to Stanley, Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3896/7 (R254/5LGH) and Volvo B10BLE / Wright 4922 (X922WRG) to Gateshead, Scania L94UB / Wright 4941 (NK51OLC) and Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3824/5 (S824/5OFT) to Washington, Leyland Olympian / Northern Counties 3956/60/1 (G529/46/5VBB) and Dennis Dart SLF / Plaxton 8290/2 (S726KNV, T438EBD) to Chester-le-Street, SPD 8216/7 (V216/7ERG) and DAF SB220GS / Northern Counties 4823-5 (P323-5AFT) to Winlaton and DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4865 (S865ONL) and Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3812/3 (S812/3FVK) to Ashington. John Tyson noyes former 428 (P428VRG) for sale on ebay.
Chris Redpath passes on the latest movements at Stagecoach North East. MAN 18.220 / Alexander 22174/93/8/9/464/6 (T174/93/8/9MVM, T464/6BNL) are due to move to Stockton. Volvo B10B / Plaxton 21041/2 (M40/1PVN) are now in the driver training fleet, while Volvo B10M / Plaxton 52082/194 (KSU466, NUF276) are delicenced. Volvo B10M / Alexander 20272 (M712KRH) is due to move to Sunderland. Dennis Dart 32744 (L744VNL) and Mercedes 709 40475 (N475RVK) have been sold for scrap. Danny Howard reports that Volvo B10M / Alexander 20101 (N201LTN) is currently being used for driver training as depicted above.
Paul Thompson kindly advises that Leven Valley Mercedes 709 / LCB 76 "Endeavour" (P776BJU) is now back in use, repainted red following refurbishment, alongside yellow sister 66 "St Hilda" (P766BJU). These are a useful back-up to the Optare Solos.
Joe Curry notes that Franks, Haswell have Leyland Olympian / East Lancs PIB1180 in stock. Volvo B10M / Alexander C57HOM has been for sale on ebay.
Classic, Annfield Plain have taken over service 870 Hexham - Consett and Chester-le-Street town services 811-3. Alastair Speight illustrates Solso Y293PDN on service 870. On a related note, Weardale now operate Crook town service service 84.
John Tyson has been visiting the Barnsley breakers today and has noted plenty of north east interest. Noted in varying states of repair were former Stagecoach North East Leyland Lynxes F122HVK, F601/10UVN, Leyland Lynx II K629YVN, Leyland Olympian / Alexander C639LFT, Leyland Atlantean / Alexander AVK169/81V, Scania N113 / Alexander F910JRG and Volvo B6 / Plaxton L102GHN, former Go North East MCW Metrobus C757/66OCN, Leyland Tiger / Plaxton C103PCN, Leyland Atlantean / ECW MBR438/61T, Optare Metrorider P416VRG, Leyland National 2 FTN704W and Dennis Dart / Wright J61x/33KCU and former Arriva North East/Northumbria Bristol VR / ECW 540 (CPT738S) and two MCW Metrobuses. Andrew Rasmussen additionally notes one time Compass Royston Dennis Dart / Wright K127LGO.
23/10/08
Interesting Go North East news courtesy of Daryl Mitchelhill is that Dennis Trident / East Lancs 3872 (W182SCU) has had its Coaster branding removed, its front end painted pink, with Angel fleetname and is now working for Chester-le-Street. Percy Main have Scania Omnicity 5262 (NK56KJX) in exchange, which has lost Angel branding and had its front and rear painted cream. Thank you to everybody who pointed out that Percy Main do in fact have a working on service 91, so the Trident was on a "home" working and not with Winlaton. Daz T confirms that Gateshead Scanias 4844-8/89-92 (NK51OLH/J/M-O, YN51MKV/X, YR02ZYK/M) are all now purple and thanks to the many people who have sent in photos of them now carrying "orbit" branding and of sister 4949 (NK51OLO) newly in white. Daz also reports that Stanley are to gain the Gateshead workings on services 29, 68 and X71 and that Dennis Trident / East Lancs 3873 (W183SCU) has been noted working for Percy Main. BS and Gazza note that Dennis / Plaxton SPD 8212/3 (V212/3ERG) are at Chester-le-Street ex Gateshead.
20/10/08
Stuart Gray records the arrival of further Scania N113 / East Lancs deckers at Arriva North East ex Arriva Midlands. 7262 (M176GRY) is in use at Bishop Auckland, while a further pair arrived in red, expected to become 7261/3. One of these is registered N162VVO and both are expected to be repainted into Arriva livery before deployment. The Optare Solos with LED side branding/advert panels were officially launched on Friday in a ceremony in Darlington. Several vehicles are now stored at Ashington, including Metroriders 913/37, 2602, 9965 (R913JNL, L700BUS, M622PDP, L603FHN), plus a futher Metroride and an ECW bodied Olympian. Alex Kennedy notes that DAF SB220 / Ikarus 4086 (J413NCP) has seemingly been removed from use at Loftus, though sister 4083 (J926CYL), which was due to move to Darlington, has been operating at Loftus ex Redcar.
Go North East DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4864 (S864ONL) is now in yellow Bargain Bus livery at Ashington and BS reports that 4869 (S869ONL) is similarly treated. BS and DA both have noted Dennis Trident / East Lancs 3869 (W179SCU) working on service 91 on the Team Valley - it is not clear if this is a loan to Winlaton or a slightly out-of-area Percy Main working. Steven Hodgson and DA note that plaxton bodied sister 3890 (NK51UCT) wears new DFDS branding. Ian Gordon and DA note that Scania L94UB / Wright 4948 (NK51OLO) is now purple. A couple of former OK Travel Optare Deltas to pop up on rail replacement work in Manchester yesterday were H536YCK of Atlantic and UKZ5456 (ex J201VHN) of Ogdens, St Helens.
Chris Redpath reports that Stagecoach North East have despatched Leyland Olympian / Northern Counties 14675 (H675BNL) for scrap. Ian Gordon has noted Volvo B10M / Northern Counties 20246 (M546SPY) heading in the direction of Slatyford ex Stockton.
14/10/08
Martin Brigham reports that Arriva North East Optare Prisma 3021 (N521XVN) has been damaged by fire. Alex Kennedy notes that Loftus now have the services of Optare Vecta 1544 (L544GHN) and Optare Metrorider 897 (P56XTN). Stuart Gray kindly informs me that Scania N113 / East Lancs 7259 (M177GRY) has been measured and bridge tested and found suitable for use at Bishop Auckland after all, so is now in service there. Steven Hodgson and Stuart Gray note that Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1688/96 (J468OKP, M186YKA) are now at Blyth, allowing Scania single deckers to go for repaint for transfer to Durham.
Go North East are using Volvo B10M / Plaxton 7083 (Y783MFT) on service X10 Newcastle - Middlesbrough on an experimental basis for three weeks, as photographed by Steven Hodgson. DA notes that Mercedes Citaro 5235/7 (NK58DWC/E) are now in service. He and Staven Hodgson both note that Scania L94UB / Wright 4947 (NK51OLN) is purple and Steven also notes DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4866 (S866ONL) is now on Bargain Bus. Danny Howard notes that Optare Metrorider crewbus 484 (R92HUA) is now in blue "Staff Shuttle" livery.
Chris Redpath reports that Stagecoach North East have sold Leyland Lynxes 29122/601/10/16/29 (F122HVK, F601/10UVN, G616CEF, K629YVN) to PVS, Barnsley. Former sisters 29611 (G611CEF) and 29620 (G620CEF) are for sale on ebay.
Steven Oliver notes the arrival of a third MAN A66 / MCV at Perryman's, Berwick, where AJ58PZE joins AJ58PZB/C. Steven Hodgson and Bill Wilkinson provide photographs of some of these vehicles in service.
Steven Hodgson has been up to Travelsure, Seahouses and reports the arrival there of Mercedes Vario / Autobus Classique T76JBO, Mercedes Vario / ??? KB02YLN and DAF SB3000 / Van Hool J788KHD.
Stuart Gray reports that Ferryhill Village Travel have sold their service work to Scarlet Band. Their Mercedes 709 / Plaxton L635VCV has been noted working for Scarlet Band and was for a time for sale on ebay.
05/10/08
Neil Wise reports that Arriva North East have now received their final pair of Optare Solos 2850/1 (YJ58CBU/V) at Darlington. Neil also reports that Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1688 (J468OKP), after a few days operating for Darlington ex Bishop Auckland, is now at Blyth. Stuart Gray reports the arrival of Scania N113 / East Lancs M177GRY from Arriva Midlands. It is understood that several are due, though their destination in the north east is as yet unknown and somewhat constrained by their 14'10" overall height. Stuart also reports that MPD 1710 (V710DNL) is due to move to Bishop Auckland imminently to displace Optare Metrorider 916 (R916JNL) to Redcar.
The Go North East website now contains details of upcoming service changes that reveal what the latest red and silver Mercedes Citaros will be for. The silver ones will be for new "silver arrows" services 2A/2C which replace parts of services 73/74/7 and X8, while the red ones will be for the revised X3 service. DA notes that Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3824 (S824OFT) is now in yellow bus livery.
Steven Oliver notes that Perrymans, Berwick have taken delivery of new MAN A66 / MCV AJ58PZC and understands that AJ58PZB has also arrived. Two more are to follow.
Steven Hodgson illustrates recently acquired Classic, Annfield Plain Scania K340 / Caetano FJ08KMF.
BS reports that A Line, Pelaw have finally retired Leyland Lynx F725LRG.
30/09/08
Arriva North East have still to receive their final pair of Optare Solos (2850/1), so normal-liveried 2805/14 (YJ08ERY/TJ) hang on at Darlington. Peterlee now have 2801/2/15-7/9/21, Durham have 2803/4/6-13/8/23 and I have no recent sightings of 2820/2. Neil Wise reports that 2847 (YJ58CAX) is now at Darlington ex Durham.
Both myself and Steven Hodgson have noted Go North East using new red-liveried Mercedes Citaro 5326 (NK58DWD) on the X1 and X2, while Steven has also noted silver-liveried 5324 (NK58DWA) on the road, albeit not in service. Bargain Bus liveried DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4863 (S863ONL) is now resident at Ashington, though was yesterday working the 332. Steven Hodgson reports that Scania L94UB / Wright 4966 (NL52WVX) is now white, while Ian Gordon reports that sister 4946 (NK51OLM) is now purple.
Chris Redpath reports that Stagecoach North East have renumbered their latest batch of new Alexander Dennis Enviro 400s. They are now 19379-89 (NK58AET-Z/FA/E/F/JV). Richard Smiles records the current ongoing transfer of MAN 18.220 / Alexander 22197/201/2/6/465 (T197MVM, T201/2/6TND, T465BNL) to Stockton. A number of ex Busways and Transit vehicles have appeared on ebay over the last few days - see B214OAJ, AVK181W, C615/58LFT. Thanks to everyone who has reported these.
IK reports that Classic, Annfield Plain have ex Burtons, Haverhill Scania / Caetano FJ08KMA/E for National Express work. It is expected that these will be joined by sisters FJ57KGK, FJ08KMF/G and these should displace the ex Arriva Northumbria DAF coaches. Ex TGM Volvo B10M / Plaxton YN51WGZ is currently in operation. Steven Hodgson notes D78JHY now repainted, but without a destination screen.
In use with ERB Services under their AFM Travel identity is Dennis Javelin / Caetano KBZ3618.
James Stoker notes that Tees Valley, Eaglescliffe have Volvo B10M / Plaxton RPP514 in stock.
Joe Curry reports that Chris Cooper, Dunston have acquired Setra 114UPH.
Joe also notes that Lees, Durham have acquired Volvo B10M / Van Hool VIL3861.
The new bus station at Washington Galleries opened yesterday and is a huge improvement! It was, however, still receiving the finishing touches and was a tad dusty.
James Stoker notes that Connexions (careers service) Optare Delta H263CFT is now with Stockton Borough Council as a youth bus.
This year's Showbus event took place at Duxford on Sunday. The two north east related highlights for me were the debut of former Northumbria Optare Delta 251 (G251SRG), which looked stunning, and Nick Larkin's recently acquired ex Hartlepool Dennis Falcon / Northern Counties 31 (B31PAJ), which I am very pleased to see saved from the scrap man.
24/09/08
It has today been announced that Arriva North East are to close their Loftus depot from 17th January 2009. It is currently planned that services X3/X4 will transfer to Redcar, service 65 will transfer to Stockton and service X56 will be shared between Stockton depot and Whitby outstation (who retain their current services also). I can now illustrate the Optare Versa demonstrator currently on loan at Bishop Auckland. It is reported that Scania L113 / East Lancs 279 (P279VRG) is now working the X1 for Stockton. MPDs 1765/9-71 (NK05GWD/J/M/N) have joined sisters 1766/7 at Stockton, with 1768 (NK05GWC) to follow. These have seen off Optare Metroriders 893/901/4, 2635/6 (P893XCU, P61XTN, P904DRG, P635/6FHN) so far.
Chris White notes that Go North East have repainted DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4862 (S862ONL) into Bargain Bus livery, with sister 4863 (S863ONL) also under repaint. These would seem to be destined to see off Ashington's Bargain Bus Olympians, which is rather a shame. The arrival of SPDs 8158/9/214/5 (S858/9ONL, V214/5ERG) at Chester-le-Street (as noted by KS) seems to have freed these DAFs up for this. The Go North East website shows the arrival of Mercedes Citaro 5322-7 (NK58DVY/Z/WA/C/D/E) for Washington. The GNE site also shows that SPDs 8213/6/7 (V213/6/7ERG) are at Gateshead, MPD 486 (V186ERG) is at Washington and that Volvo B10M / Plaxton 7077/8/80/2-4 (S977/8ABR, Y808/782-4MFT) are in the driver training school. Bluebird LMB / Plaxton 612 (NK53TJV) is withdrawn from Ashington, while Optare Delta 4752 (G752UCU) and Volvo B10M / Plaxton 7059-62/75/6 (M59LBB, N760/1RCU, YSU875/6) are with drawn from the driver training fleet.
Steven Hodgson reports that Stagecoach North East now have Dennis Dart / Plaxton 32112 (K112SRH) on Quaylink.
Myself and Steven Hodgson note that two more of the four Optare Solos recently transferred in to Veolia North East are YN04LWP/R.
Joe Curry noted the addition to stock at First Choice, Stanley of Volvo B10M / Plaxton LUI9295.
Joe also reports that Low Fell, Gateshead have ex Classic DAF SB3000 / Van Hool WOJ802.
Noted in stock with Ted Wilford Coaches, Peterlee is Mercedes Vario mini-coach YJ57EYW.
An operator not previously seen is GB Coaches, Ashington, who are using venerable Volvo B58 / Plaxton UGE807W.
22/09/08
Fortunately it would seem that the allegations against certain contributors to this site were caused by a simple misunderstanding - emails from you guys have now been unblocked, sorry for any inconvenience. It is still worth reitterating for the benefit of everyone that official permission must be sought before entering any bus depot and I would personally recommend only doing so as part of an organised club or society on a properly organised visit.
Neil Wise reports the arrival at Arriva North East's Darlington depot of new Optare Solo 2849 (YJ58CBO), while sister 2841 (YJ08XBY) now carries and LED advert panel. Alex Kennedy notes Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1637 (S637KHN) now operating for Durham, while I have noted Optare Solos 2816/7/21 (YK08ETO/R/X) now operating for Peterlee and many now operatinmg for Durham. Stu Gray reports that MPD 1708 (V708DNL) and Optare Vecta 1544 (L544GHN) are now at Bishop Auckland, where DAF DB250 / East Lancs 7443/4 (Y693/4EBR) and MPD 1764 () are also expected, in turn displacing Volvo Olympian / East Lancs 7429 (M693HPF) to Durham, DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4042 (S342KHN) to Darlington and Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1688 (J468OKP) to reserve. Optare Metrorider 2712 (R712MHN) has come off.
Former Northumbria Motor Services Optare Delta 251 (G251SRG), freshly restored to Northumbria livery, made its first public run on Saturday in preparation for the long trip down to Showbus this coming Sunday. The photo by Kevin richardson shows it in appropriate surroundings outside Jesmond depot and can be comapred with my photo from 1998, when it was one of the very first Northumbria vehciles to wear Arriva livery.
A good number of the new Alexander Dennis Enviro 400s for Stagecoach North East are now in service from Walkergate. Steven Hodgson and Chris White have both noted Alexander Dennis Dart SLF 35188 (NK56FFH) being trialled on the Quaylink routes. It is reported that Dennis Dart / Plaxton 32112 (K112SRH) remains under preparation for service and that MAN 18.220 / Alexander 22202/6/465 (T202/6TND, T465BNL) are delicenced.
Steven Hodgson and Ian Gordon noted that Go North East DAF SB120 / Wright 8250 (NA52BVG), which was badly damaged in an accident in April, is now back on the road.
Steven Hodgson reports that Skelton Coaches, Charltons Leyland Lynx II H32PAJ has left the fleet, with H755WWW expected to follow. Neither have seen service.
Steven Hodgson has photographed new Leven Valley Optare Solo S123RDC out on test in Middlesbrough.
Joe Curry reports that Lees, Durham have upseated Volvo B10M / Berkhof 720HKH to 70 seats.
15/09/08
Stuart Gray reports (with much excitement!)that Optare Versa demonstrator YJ57EHU has appeared at Arriva North East's Bishop Auckland depot. It features leather seationg and has yet to enter service. Chris White reports that Scania L113 / East Lancs 279 (P279VRG) has been repainted into the "interurban" livery. It is understood that this and some sister vehicles are to be redeployed onto the X1 Middlesbrough - Newcastle. Neil Wise and Joe Curry report that new Optare Solo 2847 (YJ58CAX) has been pressed into use at Durham before reaching Darlington. Steven Hodgson illustrates recently transferred MPD 1773 (NK05GWU) working newly won evening and Sunday service 16 Newcastle - Freeman Hospital. Stuart Gray reports that Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1696 (M186YKA) is expected on loan at Bishop Auckland from Loftus. Neil Wise reports that Leyland Olympian / Alexander 7271 (L271FVN) has moved from Darlington to Peterlee to replace ECW bodied 7220 (D178FYM), while Optare Metrorider 2711 (R711MHN) has moved from Peterlee to Ashington.
Mark McCann reports that new Stagecoach North East Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 19378 (NK58AET) has visited South Shields. Gary Mitchelhill reports that sister 19379 (NK58AEU) is now in service at Walkergate. Gary also notes, along with Steven Hodgson, that the X47 MANs have all be repainted and are smartly rebranded in the style illustrated above and that several Volvo Olympians have gained branding slogans for service 1. Danny Howard reports that Leyland Olympian / Northern Counties 14672 (H672BNL) has finally fade its anticipated move from Sunderland to Hartlepool, leaving Sunderland devoid of double deck stock.
Daryl Mitchelhill and Steven Hodgson record the entry into service of most of Go North East's latest batch of Mercedes Citaros on service 10 at Winlaton. Those known to be in stock at the moment are 5210-6/8/9 (NK08MXY/Z/YA-D/F/G/ZV/W). Steven also reports that Scania L94UB / Wright 4965 (NL52WVW) is now white and has noted Volvo Olympian / Northern Counties 3817 (S817FVK) working for Gateshead.
Stuart Gray and Steven Hodgson report that JSB, Coundon have leased new Optare Versa MX08MYS.
Paul Thompson informs me that his ever-impressive Leven Valley fleet now has a tenth Optare Solo in the shape of MAN-engined 23 "St Aidan" (S123RDC). It will enter service once it has received CCTV and fleetnames. Mercedes 709 / LCB 76 (P776BJU) has been renovated over the summer months.
Steven Hodgson has provided a further update from Classic, Annfield Plain. It would seem that Tigers G324/5BRT have been re-registered PIL2160/70 in that order. A new arrival here is Volvo B10M / Alexander H621ACK ex Wiltax. It is understood that Volvo B10BLE / Alexander W901/2UJM have headed off down south.
Steven Hodgson notes that Garnetts, Tindale Crescent. Volvo B12RT / Plaxton YR02ZKU now wears a "VIP" version of their livery.
Thanks to Ian Hignett it is now possible to illustrate the new Van Holl T917 Astron YJ08EBP that was new to Procters, Bedale earlier in the year.
10/09/08
I am now back from my holiday, so normal service should now be resumed!
Neil Wise reports delivery of new Arriva North East Optare Solos 2842-4/6 (YJ58CAA/E/O/V). Scott Cooper reports that Sister 2823 (YK08ETZ) is now at Durham and that MPDs 1766/7 (NK05GWE/F) have moved from there to Stockton (1766 via maintenance and breif use at Jesmond). Stuart Gray notes that MPDs 1763/4 (NK05GWA/C) are now at Bishop Auckland, expected to displace Optare Delta 4009 (K409BHN) to disposal and Dennis Dart / Plaxton 1688 (J468OKP) to reserve. Steven Hodgson confirms that Leyland Olympian / Alexander 7277/8 (J353/4BSH) are now at Jesmond. Neil Watson records the arrival of MPDs 1773/99 (NK05GWU, SF04RHA) at Jesmond ex Blyth in exchange for older sisters 1730/1 (V730/1DNL). Steven Hodgson notes the repaint of DAF DB250 / East Lancs 7439 (Y689EBR). Former United Leyland National 2 VBG93V is for sale on ebay.
Daryl Mitchelhill and David Gambles both today attended the launch of Go North East's new Mercedes Citaros for service 10, which was held next to the Monument in Newcastle. 5310 (NK58MXY) was the vehicle used, aided by some people painted in silver paint..... Steven Hodgson reports that MPD 521 (NK51MKD) is now white, as is former DFDS-liveried Dennis Trident / Plaxton 3890 (NK51UCT). Gazza and Ian Gordon report that Scania L94UB / Wright 4944 (NK51OLH) is now refurbished and in purple. Daniel Duffy illustrates a "lost Angel". John Tyson photographs MCW Metrobus 3771 (C771OCN) which is now in the preservationist ownership of Mark Westgarth ex Shoreline Suncruisers.
David Gambles illustrates Stagecoach North East Dennis Dart / Plaxton 32134 (K134SRH) now in service on the Quaylink service. An informant reports that further Enviro 400s have arrived as NK58AEW/X/Y.
Steven Hodgson reports that Classic, Annfield Plain have repainted and re-regsitered recently acquired Leyland Tiger / Plaxton XHY256 (now E961NOU). One of the existing G-BRT Tigers (G324BRT, I beleive) has been re-registered PIL2170 and fitted with a destination display. Steven and Gazza both note Optare Solo W442CWX in stock from Burtons.
Steven Hodgson reports that Veolia North East are further swelling their Optare Solo fleet with four examples from their Lincolnshire operation. YN04LWU is one of these and has been operating unrepainted in "Village Lynx" livery thus far.
Dreadnought, Alnwick have begun a new Alnwick - Newcastle commuter service alongside a special service for the Alnwick Gardens. Two Neoplan Skyliners have been added to stock for this, these being H297GKN (as illustratyed by Steven Hodgson) and RIB4313. The latter vehicle has previously operated in the region for ASP Travel and 1-2 Travel.
John Atkin and Andrew Rasmussen report that Tees Valley, Eaglescliffe have acquired MCW Metrobuses POG592Y and B800AOP from Kingsleys, Birtley. Dennis Condor / Duple Metsec G863FVX is now for sale on ebay.
John Robinson notes that Coatham Coaches, Redcar have new Iveco Turbo Daily minicoach MX58GZF.
Joe Curry reports that Craiggs, Amble have DAF SB3000 / Van Hool F258RJX in stock ex Adamsons, Cramlington.
02/09/08
Arriva North East introduced a completely revised network in East Durham from Sunday (plus a number of other changes elsewhere) and as part of this the first two of the nine Optare Solos for Peterlee entered service there - these being 2801/2 (YK08ERO/U). Paul Francis captured one of the new network of services on his camera - here with new service 23A (the former 229). Neil Watson reports that Scania L113 / East Lancs 279 (P279VRG) from Blyth is now working for Jesmond, though this is officially in reserve. Sister 278 (P278VRG) has temporarily moved to Bishop Auckland while accident repairs are undertaken to DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4028 (R428RPY). Mercedes Vario / Plaxton 2669 (S352PGA) has moved to Ashington ex Blyth. The end of the summer period of daily Moorsbus operation should see Scania Omnicities 4659/63 (NK05GWO, NK07FZF) return home to Redcar and Durham respectively, allowing DAF SB220GS / Plaxton 4080 (T81AUA) to return to Darlington and DAF SB220 / Ikarus 408 (J926CYL) to return to Bishop Auckland. To meet additional school contract commitments, Leyland Olympian / Alexander 7277/8 (J353/4BSH) are moving to Jesmond and sister 7272 (L272FVN) is moving to Peterlee.
DA reports that Go North East Scania L94UB / Wright 4940 (NK51OLB) is now white. He also forwards a picture courtesy of "Kenco" showing new Mercedes Citaro 5315, seen through the depot doors at Winlaton. Paul Francis illustrates one of the renumbered MPDs in Peterlee, while various people have reported an increase in the use of MPDs (of various brandings on non-matching services) in the evenings by Deptford - presumably a further effort by GNE to make fuel economies. Neil Wise notes that Volvo Olympian 3815 (S815FVK) has returned to Percy Main, while sister 3822 (S822OFT) has since been working for Ashington.
Alastair Speight reports that Tyne Valley, Acomb have added some further modernity to their fleet with DAF SB220GS / East Lancs X906RHG, new to Lakeland, Hurst Green, but more recently with Countryliner, Guildford.
Garry Luck reports that Weardale, Stanhope have added a further Leyland Olympian / Alexander to stock for an additional school contract. G344CSG is under single door conversion at Gardiners, Spennymoor.
Digests of news from previous months:
For all of the latest news and discussion, take a look at the following yahoogroups:
Thanks are due to the following for their help past and present:
Paul Thompson, Chris White, Ian Hignett, Joe Curry, Nathan Brown, Ian Gordon, Ian Galley, Lee Wardle, David Sharp, Elliott Waters, John-Paul Lavery, John Robinson, Lee Johnson, Neil Watson, Mark Williams, Baz, Ian Wilson, Ian Ward, Joey Makepeace, Daz Taylor, Brian Taylor, Richard Henderson, Danny Howard, Mark McCann, Raymond Embleton, Stuart Martin, James Stoker, David Johnson, Steven Hodgson, Chris, Paul Francis, John Hart, Bryn McGloin, Alan Britton, Lee-James Worsfold, Andrew Lawson, Graeme Warnes, David Mallon, Tony Walshaw, Daniel Stazicker, Robert Hall, Johnathan Tweddle, Garry Luck, Antony Charlton, Sam Edmondson, Alex Kennedy, Ray Barber, Mat Southart, Wayne Picknett, David Turner, "H2O 55", Michael Paterson, Andrew Tyldsley, Peter Barclay, Lee Wells, Campbell Morrison, Gavin Miller, Pete Greensmith, Richard Kennedy, Ian S, Stuart Gray, Stagecoach Fan, David Carpenter, Paul Fuller, Tom Dodds, Neil Broadley, Dave Oliver, Anth, Dave Henderson, Steven Oliver, Martin Brigham, John Atkin, Stephen Hurst, Brian, Barry, Peter Tuck, Elliot Stuffins, Neil Wise, Graeme Palmer, Richard Smiles, Mark Gibbon, "kvtipple", Mick Templeton, "Frozen Kipper", Paul Matthews, Peter Nardone, Gareth Walker, Gary Hindhaugh, Terry Wightman, "Ned Basher" Phil Logie, Trevor Gordon, Mark Brason, Mark Harrington, Gary Mitchelhill, Ross Sherwood, Broomster, Colin Davidson, Leonard, and Steve.