(11 Apr 2015, 7:54 pm)mb134 wrote Do you know how the X18 has performed since it's MAX launch, to justify 5 brand new buses it must have been doing alright in the first place, but on my journeys down on a Sunday I seemed to notice an increase in passenger numbers. Would be interesting if it's grown more than a certain other Ashington route 
 
I have used it during the week a few times, over the winter.
Apart from running early (5mins+ at times); loads seem to be ok. From observation, it seems to be locals using it, although I did see an older couple having a picnic on it once - guessing they were visitors and the November weather put them off eating it outdoors.
The recovery time in Alnwick was painful to watch, even after I had got off to get my next bus.
(11 Apr 2015, 8:47 pm)tyresmoke wrote Unfortunately I don't but I think it will be interesting to see how the X15 and X18 do in the summer season, with a more visible brand and upgraded vehicles. X18 is likely to be more seasonal than the X15 though I would have thought? The X14 would be more commuter based than touristy, though I know Rothbury does pull in some tourists just not to the same numbers as the Northumberland coast.
Can't help but feel there needs to be more working with other operators to promote connections like Spirit Buses do at Alnwick & Rothbury... even with trains at Alnmouth...
The timetable indicates alternatives, such as the 418, but I agree on the Alnmouth aspect.
Think I suggested elsewhere in the forum, something very similar about train integration.
Timetables are listed in the station (lacking Spirit timetables), but the lack of a regular service in the winter, doesn't benefit anyone around Alnmouth or the station, who is needing to travel north.