(12 Jul 2014, 4:43 pm)Kuyoyo wrote Stagecoach run 'short' 685 journeys between Carlisle and Brampton.

Whilst, no doubt, Stagecoach are responding to demand (they wouldn't, presumably, instigate a loss-making service) I wonder if it might accelerate the demise of the Arriva service?

Of course, as suggested, it depends on demand - if the passengers respond to a half-hourly service rather than an hourly service they may be encouraged to 'pop-in' to Carlisle (or Brampton) for a quick bit of shopping knowing that they don't have to wait an hour for a bus that might be half and hour late (having come from Newcastle) then there might be more trade.

In some respects, a long-distance service makes sense, but it also presents problems with time-keeping.
I have seen passengers from Newcastle left at Hexham on a Sunday when the Arriva service has been late arriving from Newcastle and the (reduced frequency 10.22, 13.22 and 16.22) Stagecoach service to Carlisle has left 'on time' meaning passengers have to wait three hours . . . . (instead of five minutes).