(07 Jan 2015, 8:56 am)Andreos1 wrote There was a feature last night on Radio Newcastle, but didn't see it last night on Look North or manage to catch it this morning.

Saw a Spirit Bus in the flesh, when I was in Alnwick the other week. Wasn't carrying many, but it was one of the short runs, to the other side of Alnwick.

@guyparkroyal What did you think of them when you were up recently? Was it a successful trip?

I enjoyed my journey on the Spirit Buses #15 on Saturday and I am already planning a return visit to try a few routes on a day ticket.
As I waited for Spirit Buses I noticed the prevoius buses in Alnwick were covered in road dirt (2 Travelsure & 3 Arriva). Spirit Bus 202 turned up on time for my 14:10 journey and it was sparkling clean too I guess the driver must have called at a jet wash.
The bus departed with 14 onboard within that number there was 1 OAP, 1 child under 5 and 2 teenagers. 4 people got off the bus at two locations between Alnwick and Rothbury with no new passengers boarding on that section. At Rothbury I got off the bus along with the OAP and one adult. The remainder of the passengers stayed on the bus to depart on the next run which was a #16 Couquetdale circular. 
I was impressed with the journey with excellent views of the Cheviots on the Alnwick to Edlingham section. There was a nice view into Cragside which is best seen from the rear most nearside seats.
The steep up and down hill sections of the route were interesting and I was surprised that the Dart managed with ease. The bus did appear to be very well maintained and the driver was good so that no doubt contributed to the way the bus managed to cope. The Caetano body is good you don't sem to get the rattles that come with the Plaxton versions that I am used to.
The driver was really nice and welcomed everyone on board in a friendly manner even helping the elderly lady get her shopping trolley on and off the bus.
The price of my journey was £4 for an adult single covering Alnwick Bus Station to Rothbury Queens Head.