(06 Nov 2013, 4:50 pm)CatsFast101 wrote The 60 has always been slightly busier than the 61, but both have decent loading. The 238 is one of those services where it's brought a new link which I think works well although it's not a massively popular one. It sees use for scholars between Saint Aidan's and Seaham, it provides another bus along the 38 section. And also provides essential connections around Dene House Road & Northlea. Seaham to Houghton isn't a massively popular connection but does see use with college students going to Shiney Row and there are a steady number of passengers on the section.
The Seaham to Houghton section is a strange one.
Kuyoyo (or however you spell it) seems certain this stretch was made commercial after years of DCC funding, yet is certainly not a money maker.
I can't remember which independent had the contract prior to GNE, but since GNE got it, they have ran all sorts of services over the top of the hill and none of them have lasted very long.