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Bus Related Outings and Reviews

Bus Related Outings and Reviews

RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(21 Mar 2016, 8:49 pm)South Tyne Lad wrote Ive got my outing planned for Hexham and the new Solos, It has been rescheduled for Saturday due to meeting with my mates on Thursday night.

My outing is as follows

1135 74 Eldon Square - Hexham 1301 ( Hoping the driver will be early en route to get a photo on the route )

Photograph buses in Hexham Bus Station 1300 - 1510

1510 AD122 Hexham - Haltwhistle 1606

1620 681 Haltwhistle - Alston 1708

Get a photo of the ( Hopefully ) Solo in Alston

1715 X81 Alston - Hexham 1805

1822 685/85 Hexham - Eldon Square 1918

Then head home.

Hoping I have good drivers so if there early they will let me get a photo en route.

I'm lucking forward to it

I will be out on Thursday just not too far, Maybe Ashington or Metro Replacements

Anyone who wants to tag along is welcome, Just look for a 13 year old boy taking photos  Big Grin

Sounds good, some nice scenic rides there especially the 681/X81 and AD122 - but just to let you know the AD122 is very expensive (day ticket is £12!!) so god knows how much a single will be.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(21 Mar 2016, 9:00 pm)Jimmi wrote I will probably spot you as I am looking to do the following on Saturday (subject to change):

0805 7 Aycliffe - Durham (Arrive 0845)
0850 15 Consett (Arrive 0930)
0945 689 Hexham (Arrive 1039)
1110 AD122 Haltwhistle (Arrive 1208)
1249 685 Hexham (1322)
1422 10 Corbridge Hill Street (1432)
1510 687 Hexham Bus Station (1527)
1530 882 Hadrian Hotel (1544)
1552 AD122 Hexham Rail Station (1602)
1607 74 Newcastle (1729)
Then whatever home.

You'll probably see me in Hexham Bus Station.

(21 Mar 2016, 9:01 pm)Tom wrote Sounds good, some nice scenic rides there especially the 681/X81 and AD122 - but just to let you know the AD122 is very expensive (day ticket is £12!!) so god knows how much a single will be.

Never tried the 681/X81 or the AD122 yet. Never knew it was that expensive!
My New Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/140662069@N02/ - Posts every Weekend at the minimum Smile
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
Might be worth going on the GNE live chat or Facebook to check the fare - to be fair it's pricey but a brilliant ride. Have a feeling it might be above £10 though for a single.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(21 Mar 2016, 9:14 pm)South Tyne Lad wrote You'll probably see me in Hexham Bus Station. Never tried the 681/X81 or the AD122 yet. Never knew it was that expensive!

(21 Mar 2016, 9:32 pm)Tom wrote Might be worth going on the GNE live chat or Facebook to check the fare - to be fair it's pricey but a brilliant ride. Have a feeling it might be above £10 though for a single.

http://www.simplygo.com/all-services/ad122 - All fare information for the AD122, Indeed it is expensive.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
Tomorrow will be the first chance that I have really had to take advantage of my staff pass, so my plan is as follows...

0717 #21 Barley Mow to Newcastle Eldon Square operated by Go North East (Arrive 0753)
0800 #X85 Newcastle Eldon Square to Hexham Bus Station operated by Go North East (Arrive 0847)
1002 #X84 Hexham Bus Station to Newcastle Gallowgate operated by Go North East (Arrive 1100)
1106 #Metro St James to Tynemouth (Arrive 1131)
1148 #900 Tynemouth to Whitley Bay operated by Arriva North East (Arrive 1157)
1301 #900 Whitley Bay to Tynemouth operated by Arriva North East (Arrive 1316)
1326 #Metro Tynemouth to North Shields (Arrive 1329)
1400 #Ferry North Shields to South Shields (Arrive 1407)
1412 #20 South Shield to Park Lane Interchange operated by Go North East (Arrive 1443)
1556 #8 Park Lane Interchange to Chester-le-Street operated by Go North East (Arrive 1655)

I have no set plan after my journey on the 8, however, I'm guessing my plan will go out the window in Newcastle due to the roadworks in Low Fell...
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(22 Mar 2016, 11:05 pm)LeeCalder wrote Tomorrow will be the first chance that I have really had to take advantage of my staff pass, so my plan is as follows...

0717 #21 Barley Mow to Newcastle Eldon Square operated by Go North East (Arrive 0753)
0800 #X85 Newcastle Eldon Square to Hexham Bus Station operated by Go North East (Arrive 0847)
1002 #X84 Hexham Bus Station to Newcastle Gallowgate operated by Go North East (Arrive 1100)
1106 #Metro St James to Tynemouth (Arrive 1131)
1148 #900 Tynemouth to Whitley Bay operated by Arriva North East (Arrive 1157)
1301 #900 Whitley Bay to Tynemouth operated by Arriva North East (Arrive 1316)
1326 #Metro Tynemouth to North Shields (Arrive 1329)
1400 #Ferry North Shields to South Shields (Arrive 1407)
1412 #20 South Shield to Park Lane Interchange operated by Go North East (Arrive 1443)
1556 #8 Park Lane Interchange to Chester-le-Street operated by Go North East (Arrive 1655)

I have no set plan after my journey on the 8, however, I'm guessing my plan will go out the window in Newcastle due to the roadworks in Low Fell...

Not sure what traffic and timekeeping on the 21 is like for that time of the morning but with only a 7 minute connection between the 21 and X85 I can see where things may go wrong there.

If I stick to my plan I will be leaving Whitley Bay around 10 minutes before you arrive, where I am then heading up to North Shields on the 17.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(22 Mar 2016, 11:17 pm)Jimmi wrote Not sure what traffic and timekeeping on the 21 is like for that time of the morning but with only a 7 minute connection between the 21 and X85 I can see where things may go wrong there.

If I stick to my plan I will be leaving Whitley Bay around 10 minutes before you arrive, where I am then heading up to North Shields on the 17.

It should be fine, not a problem if I miss it like, I'll just head elsewhere.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(22 Mar 2016, 11:19 pm)LeeCalder wrote It should be fine, not a problem if I miss it like, I'll just head elsewhere.

The 21 is fine that time of morning, it's after 8 when reliability drops and traffic has been relaxed this week. Touch wood it's the on,y time the 21 is ever actually to schedule 

I get the 7.11 or 7.17 ex Birtley and I'm in town around 7.45 normally, worst case 8.00 but that's normally due to the Tyne Bridge being blocked from an accident. The 7.17 normally catches up with a fully laden 7.11 in low fell.

Sometimes quicker hopping off on Blackett st and running through to ES
Wistfully stuck in the 90s
A really good day out
Thank you to those who offered suggestions for a potential trip to the North East I was going to do today. Unfortunately due to plans my trip was cancelled though I was still free today so decided not to waste an opportunity to get out and about, just a little more local. Local to me anyway. Hopefully this review will be a little more interesting as I imagine the subject, trentbarton, is a little more interesting than First Potteries. 

I started my day by heading to Derby, a key hub for trentbarton. I can't apologise for my spelling of the brand name here; the lower case, compound version of their name is now their official title found on all of their branding and publications - I like it though. 

259 - Y259 DRC Optare Excel Route D1: Derby Meteor Centre - Derby City Centre
My first bus of the day was not strictly a trentbarton bus, but a Notts & Derby one. Notts & Derby are a sister subsidiary to trentbarton within the Wellglade group and they can be perceived as the low-cost operation of the group. They specialise in contractual services including for large companies such as JCB and Rolls Royce with a few commercial services; though many have holes in the timetable where vehicles drop away to operate school contracts etc. One of their services provides the park & ride for Derby's Meteor Centre, a retail park not far from the city centre. 259 wears an unusual livery related to Derby College shown here:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/ipswichbus...542857395/

It's easy to see where they got their inspiration...
.jpg Test card.jpg

So, looking like a gay pride barcode, 259 heads non-stop into the city. For an older vehicle it moved quickly and was relatively rattle free. This bus has a harder life when it was new working the 199 Skyline service connecting the Peak District to Manchester Airport so short circuits of Derby are no trouble for this veteran. I spend the short journey appreciating the innovative design features such as the domed ceiling with LED lighting and curved grab poles to make a more open environment. These must have been a later input as I believe the ones Go North East had didn't have these features. The park and ride stop in Derby is on the very fringe of the city centre on Derwent Street. Presumably this is to keep running time down, but it's not the most obvious or welcoming location for non-bus users who are presumably the regular passengers on a park & ride. 

 82 - YX65 BRC Volvo B11R Plaxton Elite red arrow: Derby Bus Station - Nottingham City Centre
As a bus enthusiast I was naturally drawn to the red arrow stand. I would say if you asked any passenger there which vehicle they wish was going to operate their service, it would be one of these. These coaches demand attention, they dominate the scene at the stands and even within the station, their presence is known. A huge 'red arrow' banner directs passengers to the stand below:
.jpg Pre boarding.JPG

This podium is a great idea from trentbarton. It is in fact staffed during the day, I had confused the lady serving with my ticket request so she'd gone for help while I took the opportunity for a photo. The idea here is the station based steward can 'pre-board' passengers, issuing tickets and checking passes, to ensure the coach is filled and ready for departure as soon as possible. 

Although it sounds odd, these coaches seem bugger from the inside. In case I haven't got my point across, they're huge. The interior is no off-the-peg job. Imagine the scene as Wellglade are on the phone with Plaxton. "Red. Everything has to be red. And Leather. Red leather." Last year I caught a National Express example of an Elite; the red arrow puts that one to shame. It's not only the comfortable seats with flexible headrests with 3-point seat belts but the huge windows and soundproofing contribute to an excellent ride. The journey itself is very enjoyable, we connect to the A52 right away and the driver cranks up the speed. The coach is driven with a sense of professional urgency, weaving around traffic rather than being incumbent in the slow-lane. As we enter Nottingham and the road becomes more urban bus lanes allow the red arrow to sail past cars. I'm obviously bias but if I was genuinely commuting between the two cities every day it could not think why anybody would choose their car over this. I like to think I have a nice car and this is still potentially a nicer place to sit!  

310 - YJ07 VSE Optare Tempo Rushcliffe Mainline: Nottingham City Centre - Radcliffe-on-Trent
Another service, another excellent branding exercise by trentbarton. Rushcliffe Mainline & Rushcliffe Villager. There's no tenuous link or unnecessary cheesiness to this brand (I'm looking at you, Fast Cats, and Director's Cut, Arriva!). You don't have to know the area to guess that both routes go to Rushcliffe and one's a faster route, one goes via the villages along the way. Boom. Done. Next. Branding done well. It's worth noting how trentbarton don't pair their brands with a number also. The brand is the name of the route, they simply don't have a number. And why should it? It would only confuse matters. On the subject of branding here's an image of the same vehicle when it was allocated to the 'black cat':

https://www.flickr.com/photos/harryhalibut/2484185059/

Hardly the same as a yellow MPD in Sunderland is it?

I really like this version of the Optare Tempo. It's boxy design stands out and I imagine makes a great canvas for branding. The windows are much taller than many other models and the thin pillars between them add to the airiness of the interior. Even better is the area at the back where the top escape hatch doubles as a skylight and seats are mounted side-on which increases floorspace. It's a shame this concept didn't catch on in as windows seem to be getting smaller, particularly with Wrightbus. The ride is a bit squeaky which is fair enough on a bus this age, but nonetheless enjoyable place to be. 

680 - FJ55 ABF Scania L95UB Wright Solar Rushcliffe Mainline: Radcliffe-on-Trent - Nottingham City Centre
Non-branded spares are essential for an operation such as trentbarton, or Go North East for that matter. There's a notable difference in how the two companies present their spares. My opinion is Go North East's corporate effort is lazy. The allover red makes the vehicle look like a constant 'work-in-progress'; a white relief would improve the livery no-end. If it's planned for that vehicle to be spare for many years it would be worthwhile to livery it properly. trentbarton however, have again executed this well. Rather than a fleet livery, the spares are used to advertise items such as day tickets, which 680 does. It's still clearly identifiable as a trentbarton vehicle due to the house style of branding and also as a Rushcliffe Mainline by not only the destination screen but a large card placed in a frame visible through the windscreen. 

What struck me first about this bus was the driver. She was stunning! A very pretty young lady, no older than me (23) and distinctly 'girly'. Lovely make-up, hair and appropriate jewellery. She was very petite and dwarfed by the large steering column and seat of the Scania. I once read online trentbarton dislike hiring from other bus companies as existing drivers have often been worn down an overworked and therefore lost their passion for the job. This lady epitomised efforts to change the image of the grumpy old bus driver and rock on girl for not being intimidated my a male dominated industry and well done trentbarton for supporting her. To make this whole passage sound a lot less creepy I best point out I'm gay and didn't spent the journey leering over the poor soul. I'm certain trentbarton tend to keep their drivers on dedicated routes though, so you know where to find her on your trips to trentbarton land, boys!
.jpg IMG_0137.JPG


I noticed the bus carried timetables for the service it was on despite being a spare. It's unlikely that the depot change these every day so maybe there's a system of even allocating the spares to a route for when branding vehicles are in the depot. I also noticed none of the buses I'd been on so far had an assault screen, which was nice. It's nice to know passengers are trusted enough not to attack their driver. On the way back into Nottingham a City Transport Enviro 400 went the other way featuring a full rear advert for Batman V Superman. It was on route 1 to Gotham. It was too damn far away to photograph before I realised!

 73 FJ10 OXN Scania Irizar I4 Skylink Express: Nottingham City Centre - East Midlands Airport
Skylink Express is trentbarton's newest venture, providing a fast link to EMA form Nottingham using coaches freed up from the red arrow upgrade. Despite being a new and uncertain venture, they've gone all-out with the branding and there's no hint of red inside or out. The service departs from Broadmarsh bus station which is a bit of a mess. Partially reminiscent of old Eldon Square there's buses squashed everywhere and passengers having to cross the carraigeways to reach their stops. To make matters worse it appears the original layover area has been converted to a charging area for the fleet of electric Optare Solos used in the city. An alternative layover area has been made by sectioning off a lane of traffic outside the station using constriction barriers; though I get the feeling this is a permanent 'solution'. The clear issue here is with buses piled up in single file, if the one first in line has a long layover it will need to leave the bay to let the bus behind out. I'd put this behind Durham in the bad bus station awards. 

This coach highlights the level of upgrade the red arrow has recently received. This previous stock was looking well worn after 5 years of service, though the lightweight seating and e-leather wouldn't have helped. At first I chose to sit around the wheelchair bay which is in the centre of the vehicle due to the aprox. 7ft leg room in this area. The photo below shows the layout:
.jpg Wheelchair access.JPG

Two things popped into my mind looking at this area. Firstly, with the slippy factor of these seats there's a real risk of a sharp right turn sending a sleeping commuter into that deep gap! Secondly I remembered both terminal bus stations used by red arrow are a bay set-up whereby only the front door meets the Kerb. what would be the reality of a wheelchair user wishing to board? My musing were interrupted by the sheer concentration needed to remain on the seat! I elected to move to the very back to be secured in by the wall. Much more comfortable. Mechanically the bus sound tired too, seeming slow at  and struggling to keep up with traffic on the open roads. This Irizar bodywork isn't very popular in the UK and it's easy to assume why. The lower cabin height and seemingly lightweight structure seems much more suited to their home country of Spain where coach use on stagecarraige work is much more common. After alighting I notice this on the side boot lid, never missing a trick trentbarton!
.jpg Boot lid.JPG


It's odd suddenly being at an airport terminal with no intention of boarding a plane. Even more so when I step outside and spot a trio of North-East bus enthusiasts! They get bloody everywhere. On that note, what's the correct term for a group of enthusiasts? Pack? Gaggle? I like the term used for a group of Pugs - grumble. "Oh flip, there's a grumble of enthusiasts at the corner." I think it works. 

Another branded spare pulled up during my next wait. This one simply was a big high five to their team. It's effective PR and must help morale to be branded as superheros, I love it!
.jpg Superheros only.JPG


911 BX64 WJK Mercedes Citaro Skylink Derby: East Midlands Airport - Derby Bus Station
Oh how I wish Go North East carried on their commitment to the Citaro on to this next generation. The styling is one of the best out there and the Skylink livery really sets it off. The Skylink route is long and tightly timed with lots of open roads. No worries for the Citaro which is remarkably fast. All trentbarton drivers I've met today have been pleasant, but this driver is the winner - he spent most of the route singing! Although he does really work for sister company Kinchbus, the Skylink has cleverly been designed to fit in with trentbarton brands in Derby. 

330 YJ12 GWL Optare Tempo SR i4: Derby Bus Station - Spondon
I hate to say it but I think Optare were trying too hard with the Tempo SR. The styling is certainly striking but was probably a bit too 'out-there' to really catch on. I can't imagine it really offers any fuel/capacity/technical advantages over the Versa. From first impressions the promise so much, the interior looks smart even if the 'i4' brand is a bit obscure. The build quality and ride really lets the bus down, it rattled more than the 15 year old Excel from the start of the day. It's compounded by the heating which is insanely intense! My eyes were soon itching from the dry air. A quick check on Google Maps finds the first opportunity to change services to get back to Derby. 

809 YJ11 ENO Optare Versa Spondon Flyer: Spondon - Derby Bus Station
I wasn't going to bother with the Spondon Flyer as the Versas seemed a tad uninteresting. I'm really glad I sampled one; they are an exercise in branding. First up is the bus stop info 
.jpg Spondon times.JPG

First up, rest of the world take note of a great, clear, bus timetable. Not difficult. Second, look at the attention to detail i4 has 'travel time', the flyer has 'flight time', ace! The flight theme goes full throttle on board. The service logo which is reminiscent of the classic BOAC logo is embroided into the seat headrests. The coving adverts are stylised as flight safety information cards, boarding passes and even luggage labels. I almost missed this next one though:
.jpg Spondon seat numbers.JPG

Look at that! almost unnoticeable behind the coving is some aeroplane-esque seat numbers! Absolutely useless in reality but absolutely fantastic at the same time. It' attention to detail like that which sets trentbarton apart. Many operators have taken inspiration from their branding, few will commit to this level. The Versa itself is sounding tired from this fairly demanding city route but who care when your flying! Just to finish the experience, here's a photo of the waiting area at Derby bus station:
.jpg Spondon seat covers.JPG

Another example of pure commitment to selling their service as a brand passengers immerse themselves in and become affectionate for. It's easy to see how this works, but it really does require a different approach to selling bus travel. 

259 - Y259 DRC Optare Excel Route D1: Derby City Centre - Derby Meteor Centre
The bus and driver I started my day with also bring my journeys to a close. There's not much more to say here as I've already been an board already but it is nice to have another ride on one of these rare vehicles. With nothing much on my mind now I stare out the window to have a look at Derby. We pass a factory advertising 'Make your own yoghurt'. The more I repeat that in my head the creepier it sounds, I'm not even sure why. Who thought that would be a good thing to put on a sign? Sufficiently grossed out by Derby I head back to the car; a rather enjoyable and 'really good' adventure!
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(22 Mar 2016, 11:05 pm)LeeCalder wrote Tomorrow will be the first chance that I have really had to take advantage of my staff pass, so my plan is as follows...

0717 #21 Barley Mow to Newcastle Eldon Square operated by Go North East (Arrive 0753)
0800 #X85 Newcastle Eldon Square to Hexham Bus Station operated by Go North East (Arrive 0847)
1002 #X84 Hexham Bus Station to Newcastle Gallowgate operated by Go North East (Arrive 1100)
1106 #Metro St James to Tynemouth (Arrive 1131)
1148 #900 Tynemouth to Whitley Bay operated by Arriva North East (Arrive 1157)
1301 #900 Whitley Bay to Tynemouth operated by Arriva North East (Arrive 1316)
1326 #Metro Tynemouth to North Shields (Arrive 1329)
1400 #Ferry North Shields to South Shields (Arrive 1407)
1412 #20 South Shield to Park Lane Interchange operated by Go North East (Arrive 1443)
1556 #8 Park Lane Interchange to Chester-le-Street operated by Go North East (Arrive 1655)

I have no set plan after my journey on the 8, however, I'm guessing my plan will go out the window in Newcastle due to the roadworks in Low Fell...
Looks fun, I have will be 900 bashing next week.
Against the Anti-Lee Club.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
Kinky buses?!

Oh my.

I think they actually over-egged that one somewhat.

"Mum. MUM! What does kinky mean?"
"I think, in this case, it might refer to all the dents in the bus from reversing in the bus station."
"What else does it mean?
"I suggest you look it up in a dictionary."
"I don't do dictionaries."
"That's your lookout, then."
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
Today so me go seek 9104 and then another ride on 9102. Well this is what i did
6096 56
640 700
4025 metro
4033 metro
19432 22
9104 A3
4069 metro
142063 northern
6092 56
28029 4
640 700
4047 metro
9102 20
548 38
5217 20A
542 238
4945 20
36088 5A
36084 5A
28023 13
8273 33
4937 38
T206clo scholars
5324 61
34605 18
4903 99.

Today was my trip to get a ride on 9104. I began my day on 6096 this was half empty then boring old journeys on the metro once on 9104 it felt ok.
Well to tired to review but here is my review
4842
Best bus ever
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
I've had a brilliant day out in Tynedale, I already have a photo of the new Solo SR's from Hexham but decided I would venture further for photos.

I ended up in Haltwhistle, Bellingham, Wall and Halton Lea Gate.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 3:12 pm)LeeCalder wrote I've had a brilliant day out in Tynedale, I already have a photo of the new Solo SR's from Hexham but decided I would venture further for photos.

I ended up in Haltwhistle, Bellingham, Wall and Halton Lea Gate.

Saw you as I came into Hexham on the first 689 this morning.

I've done Hexham, Haltwhistle, Corbridge and Wall, as I sampled the PCL Travel 880 from Hexham.

Now on-board 667 on the 74 to Newcastle, WiFi works brilliantly!
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 4:21 pm)Jimmi wrote Saw you as I came into Hexham on the first 689 this morning.

I've done Hexham, Haltwhistle, Corbridge and Wall, as I sampled the PCL Travel 880 from Hexham.

Now on-board 667 on the 74 to Newcastle, WiFi works brilliantly!

I seen you board the AD122, was it a good journey?
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 4:33 pm)LeeCalder wrote I seen you board the AD122, was it a good journey?
Yeah I did Hexham Rail Station - Haltwhistle on the 11:10 journey from Hexham. Lovely route, scenery is great I'd strongly recommend it!

Not even half way through the route yet but I'd strongly recommend the 74 as well.

May do a review of today's outing as it has been a good one today.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 4:37 pm)Jimmi wrote Yeah I did Hexham Rail Station - Haltwhistle on the 11:10 journey from Hexham. Lovely route, scenery is great I'd strongly recommend it!

Not even half way through the route yet but I'd strongly recommend the 74 as well.

May do a review of today's outing as it has been a good one today.

How was the journey on PCLs Dart?
I had a good day today and it was nice meeting you for the first time : )
I might do a review too
My New Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/140662069@N02/ - Posts every Weekend at the minimum Smile
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 5:00 pm)South Tyne Lad wrote How was the journey on PCLs Dart?
I had a good day today and it was nice meeting you for the first time : )
I might do a review too

Basically felt just like a pretty standard Dart of that era really. Seat at the back was surprisingly more comfortable than normal as it's like the back seats on Enviro 200's seemed to have more padding than normal. Got off in Wall and managed to get a photo before he left which is nice as it means I have a photo of that somewhere other than Hexham Bus Station.

It was a pleasure to meet you, pleased you had a good day

Hoping this rain eases off a bit, still on the 74.

Review from me will be dependent on time as I want to get my photos on Flickr first and then of course I don't want to be up too late as I'm up early again tomorrow morning to head to Kirkby Stephen.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 5:22 pm)Jimmi wrote Basically felt just like a pretty standard Dart of that era really. Seat at the back was surprisingly more comfortable than normal as it's like the back seats on Enviro 200's seemed to have more padding than normal. Got off in Wall and managed to get a photo before he left which is nice as it means I have a photo of that somewhere other than Hexham Bus Station.

It was a pleasure to meet you, pleased you had a good day

Hoping this rain eases off a bit, still on the 74.

Review from me will be dependent on time as I want to get my photos on Flickr first and then of course I don't want to be up too late as I'm up early again tomorrow morning to head to Kirkby Stephen.

Aye, It used to be with London United in its heyday, Though is a interesting Dart because 51 or 02 Reg Darts in London have the New Cummins ISB Engine but the old Allison AT545 gearbox.

Pleasure to meet you too  Smile

The weathers took a turn for the worse in the last 15 Mins but atleast I'm in the house now.

I'm going to start uploading my batch of photos in 10 Mins.
My New Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/140662069@N02/ - Posts every Weekend at the minimum Smile
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 3:12 pm)LeeCalder wrote I've had a brilliant day out in Tynedale, I already have a photo of the new Solo SR's from Hexham but decided I would venture further for photos.

I ended up in Haltwhistle, Bellingham, Wall and Halton Lea Gate.

There's some nice picturesque places for photo up there, that's for sure! 

Dare I ask your opinion on the livery? Tongue
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RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 5:56 pm)Adrian wrote There's some nice picturesque places for photo up there, that's for sure! 

Dare I ask your opinion on the livery? Tongue

There certainly is and I'm really happy with one or two of my photos.

The livery, I really like. I wasn't too sure about the yellow and blue combination as it didn't look to good on the MPD's without branding in my opinion, but it looks really smart, a modern twist really works.

5210 is the smartest Solar I've seen in a while.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
Not done one of these for a while, so I think it's time I did something about it...

0805 7 Newton Aycliffe - Durham Bus Station (ANE 1513)
Predictable! I know, but this is an ideal time to leave the house on a Saturday which is why it's often my first journey of the day on these outings. This journey was slightly different to usual as this run is normally an Enviro 400 but this morning I was given 1513 instead which I was quite happy about as I'd had 7535 three times this week so I didn't really want it again, especially as it's plug sockets don't work although I'm pleased to say this wasn't the case on 1513. Pretty standard journey, just sat back and relaxed until I reached my destination of Durham. As I entered Durham, I spotted Adrian and Marcus taking photos on the roundabout so I decided to say a quick hello before catching my next bus.

0850 15 Durham Bus Station - Consett Bus Station (GNE 6030)
My next bus was of course was a Volvo B7TL/Plaxton President, pretty standard President journey really although this one was slightly better than some of the examples I've had on this service recently although the destination panel did rattle a little. Before I knew it I was in Consett. In Consett I spotted Venture 650's front screen only showing half of the screen fully lit, the other half was so dim you could barely read it!

0945 689 Consett Bus Station - Hexham Bus Station (GNE 647)
Done this journey a few times now so I am starting to run out of things to say about it but it's still a fantastic route to do and I love doing it although next time I would like to do Hexham - Consett rather than Consett - Hexham just to shake it up a bit although I don't plan to do the route again for a while. As the bus got towards Hexham General Hospital I spotted Lee Calder, Gary Hunter and Sam Tilson with Lee and Gary getting photos. I alighted at Hexham Bus Station and was surprised to see that there was no enthusiast's there. Decided to head to the rail station for some shots and wait for my next bus there, annoyingly I tried to get a shot of a Tynedale Links Solo SR on the 683 but a cyclist got in the way, fortunately it was 671 which I snapped in Newcastle the other night.

1113 AD122 Hexham Rail Station - Haltwhislte Rail Station (GNE 635)
Decided that I should sample this route seem as it runs along much of Hadrian's Wall, took my place at the back of the bus and then I heard the next stop announcements kick in with an explanation of how the route works about stuff like how/where to get off etc. Quite like these next stop announcements as it also gave you a bit of info about some of the places along the route sort of like you would get on something like the City Sightseeing services. There was some cracking scenery on this route with bits of Hadrian's Wall to be seen plus despite the weather today there was a fair few people out walking along the wall, rather them than me! This journey was pretty quiet though, there was me and three other passengers on-board with the other three getting off along the route whilst I stayed on until Haltwhistle Rail Station.

Haltwhistle
Got a photo of 635 at the rail station but as a few people have taken shots here I decided to get a shot round the corner which turned out well. During my time in Haltwhistle I also snapped Arriva's 4661 on the 685 to Carlisle, Northern Rail's 156443 and Go North East's Tynedale Links Solo SR 669, first I got a shot near the rail station on the 185 but one thing I must say is the driver missed out Haltwhistle Market Place and just went straight to the rail station (naughty, naughty!) Had enough time to get myself somewhere nice and scenic within Haltwhistle for a shot of it on the 681 to Alston and I'm pleased to say it turned out very well. Then I waited for my next bus.

1256 685 Haltwhistle, Townfoot - Hexham Bus Station (Stagecoach Cumbria: 27141)
My next journey was this Enviro 300, quite like these two E300's for the 685 due to it's comfy coach style seats and the fact it has free WiFi although it is a bit difficult getting signal on it though. Irritatingly the only seats that weren't next to someone were the sideways seats behind the drivers cab, so I had to make do with them, better than standing I suppose. Pretty smooth journey, I did eventually get to view my Facebook and a few other social media sites before arriving in Hexham. Quickly headed off to Greggs for a pasty, hung around and ate that before heading back to the bus station where I snapped PCL Travel's 'Rural Link' Dart LG02 FFP on the 880. Saw Bazza who didn't have time to stop to chat as he was about to get the X85 back to Newcastle. I then met fellow forum member South Tyne Lad, who I chatted to for around 35 minutes before he decided to abandon his original plan for the afternoon due to time and instead he joined me for a trip up to Corbridge.

1422 10 Hexham Bus Station - Corbridge (GNE 6075)
South Tyne Lad managed to get on ahead of most of the passengers although I could not without resorting to shoving so I was one of the last passengers to board, he bagged the front seat and I sat in the row behind him. Coninued to chat to each other on this short journey before we arrived in Corbridge. We tried to get some shots of the TEN within Corbridge but that didn't quite work out, I decided that we should both get some shots of buses where the bridge is just as you enter/exit Corbridge, I think it's a good spot for photos.

1508 687 Corbridge - Hexham Rail Station (GNE 556)
Decided that I would like to sample this route back to Hexham with South Tyne Lad joining me on this journey as well. I will be honest, the interior on this one was looking pretty tired. The number of MPD's are dropping within the Go North East fleet, but it's nice that there is still a few kicking about for now (from an enthusiasts point of view). We were the only two passengers on-board for this journey which at least meant it was nice and quiet, well as quite as a MPD can be shaking over some rather rough roads! Enjoyed my short trip on this bus. I decided to alight at Hexham Rail Station in order to catch my next bus, so I bade farewell to South Tyne Lad on continued onto Hexham Bus Station.

1533 880 Hexham Rail Station - Wall, The Hadrian Hotel (PCL Travel: LG02FFP)
I quite like to sample the efforts from the independents and one I had yet to sample was PCL Travel, so I decided to sample this Dart for a short journey up to the village of Wall, quite a nice route I thought although much of it was the same as my journey on the AD122 earlier in the day. There was only me and one other passenger on-board for this journey, I decided to sit at the back. Quite enjoyed my run on this, sounded pretty similar to an MPD really. Alighted the bus at The Hadrian Hotel fortunately for me the driver sat at the stop for a short while so I was able to get across the road and get a shot of it, nice to have a photo somewhere that is less photographed within this hobby.

1554 AD122 Wall, The Hadrian Hotel - Hexham Bus Station (GNE 670)
Tried to get a photo but wasn't totally pleased with the result. My first ride on one of the new Tynedale Links Solo SR's, this was only a short trip up to Hexham but I quite enjoyed my trip on this, fortunately the three other passengers on-board also wished to alight at Hexham Rail Station so I made sure to make it so I was the first to depart so I could get a photo here and I did.

1613 74 Hexham Rail Station - Newcastle, Eldon Square Bus Station (GNE 667)
Bit sick of the sight of Hexham Rail Station by this point, 667 passed through the rail station on the 74 heading to Hexham Bus Station running a few minutes late then it came back shortly afterwards on a trip destined to Newcastle. This is my first time on the 74, I've heard some good things about this route so I thought it was about time I tried it out and my it did not disappoint, the views were pretty something like, tight roads and picturesque villages made for an enjoyable journey, the long route also gave me a good opportunity to sample the new Tynedale Links Solo SR's which I must say I do quite like, thought the seats were reasonably comfortable and I was quite impressed with how well the WiFi worked although I didn't look at my phone much on this journey as I was really enjoying the route. As we got closer to Newcastle the heaven's finally opened and boy it didn't half tip it down, was so pleased I was on the bus when this happened.

1739 X21 Newcastle, Eldon Square Bus Station - Durham Bus Station (GNE 6307)
This was my steed back to Durham, I actually quite like these StreetDeck's think they perform pretty well across the route and the seats seem pretty comfortable and I like a bus with WiFi and it works a treat in these, as do the charging points. Sadly my journey on this was spoilt by loud annoying teenagers one of which said apparently it's raining, repeatedly, really? No kidding! It got to the point they were screaming at each other, so I had to try my hardest to enjoy the journey but I couldn't but at least I managed to stop myself from feeling angry.

1845 7 Durham Bus Station - Newton Aycliffe (ANE 1514)
Fortunately the annoying teens got on the 20 at Durham but sadly in typical fashion there was more sat in the bus station, there was also some drunk people, one woman decided to it would be a good idea to climb the railings where you board the bus which of course went well, yep she did have a bit of a fall, don't panic she was fine! Whilst waiting for the 7 someone asked me if the X21 had gone so I sadly informed them that it had gone. The drunk people were waiting on the 22/24/43 stand but I later discovered that they actually wanted the 7 I was waiting for. I sat in my usual Pulsar seat which is where the step is and the drunks sat at the back although I wasn't too bothered about them as they weren't too bad, they did have a bit of a singsong etc. A woman was drinking a can of Carling on the bus, classy! Charged my phone on this bus but annoyingly the WiFi logged me out at Ferryhill because I exceeded the limit.

That's how my day went today, was nice having a quick chat with Adrian and Marcus in Durham this morning and I enjoyed the company from South Tyne Lad for some of my outing this afternoon Smile

The photos are now on Flickr, there's some nice scenic shots in there so be sure to have a look, I'm quite tired now but I'm up and out again tomorrow at the Kirkby Stephen/Brough Rally, hopefully there is no rain or thunderstorms.

Thanks for reading and enjoy the rest of your Easter Weekend.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 10:57 pm)Jimmi wrote Charged my phone on this bus but annoyingly the WiFi logged me out at Ferryhill because I exceeded the limit

Arriva wifi must have the most generous allowance and you still use it up hahahaha!!!

I believe the 7 wifi is set up differently on the Pulsars, with a lower allowance than the rest.

Great review as normal Jimmi!
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 11:46 pm)GX03 SVC wrote Arriva wifi must have the most generous allowance and you still use it up hahahaha!!!

I believe the 7 wifi is set up differently on the Pulsars, with a lower allowance than the rest.

Great review as normal Jimmi!
Thanks

Think it's an hour on each network, so an hour on Sapphire which is what I got on the 7 today, this has also been the case when I've done 45 minutes on the 7 then 15 minutes into a journey into a journey on the 22 it blocks me. They haven't set the WiFi up properly on the Enviro 400's so this doesn't happen on there, it's not very often I get two Pulsars on the 7 in the same day.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(26 Mar 2016, 11:52 pm)Jimmi wrote Thanks

Think it's an hour on each network, so an hour on Sapphire which is what I got on the 7 today, this has also been the case when I've done 45 minutes on the 7 then 15 minutes into a journey into a journey on the 22 it blocks me. They haven't set the WiFi up properly on the Enviro 400's so this doesn't happen on there, it's not very often I get two Pulsars on the 7 in the same day.

Nope, it's not time restricted  Wink 

The good thing about arriva wifi is that every routes wifi is separate. So, if you're travelling in the 7, then the X12, then the X21, you'd have to sign up three times if you haven't used them before. Go North East seem to have the same wifi setup on all of their buses.

What exactly do you do on the wifi? the last time I exceeded my usage in 15 minutes was when I tried downloading an app!  Tongue
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
(27 Mar 2016, 12:22 am)South Tyne Lad wrote Its been a good day so I feel like posting my outing..

My original plan was to get the 8:35 74 from Eldon Square to Hexham and meet Davie and DanPicken there, Though my bad idea of staying up till 2:00 AM didn't work for getting up at 7:00AM
I revised my plans and decided to wake up at 9:00 AM and get the 11:35 74 to Hexham, Although this resulted in me missing Davie and DanP ( There plan involved leaving Hexham before I got there )
So apologies to Davie and DanP for being late ( Again  Tongue  )

I left the house extremely late at 11:00 AM and dashed to the Metro in my Hoodie and Thermal Coat which was the worst choice of coat to bring on a humid day!
I made it to Brockly Whins Metro for 11:08 and bought my Explorer, I seen a mate from Primary days on the platform days but he didn't see me.

I took my place at the top of the Platform and took my thermal coat off and placed it in my backpack, When I tried to zip the backpack back up the zip snapped!
This involved me having to carry my backpack like a shopping bag for the rest of the day.

And so my journey begins :

J1 Brockely Whins Metro - Haymarket Metro Metrocar 4033

The same metrocar I got on a mere 2 days before on Thursday, The brakes were in need of oiling when the 36 Year old Metrocar pulled in front of me.
I took my place at the front seat facing towards the line, And started trying to fix the zip on my bag...
That's all I done that journey and after long, I arrived at Haymarket having given up trying to fix it and dashed towards Eldon Square with 3 Mins till departure of the 74.

J2 Eldon Square - Hexham Bus Station GNE 667

The official " Enthusiasts Bus " for this week, With me and 5 other Enthusiast's boarding this smart Solo, I took my place at the back on the Mercedes Engine, Accompinied by 2 other Enthusiast's.
We began chatting about transport related things, Involving talking about what type of seats the Solo has to the Enthusiast's past job at Train Operator Grand Central.
We chatted until Stamfordham, Where I moved to the empty row in front because of the ever increasing uncomfort of GNE's E-Leather over the Boiling Engine.
The Solo coped well with the route, Though the " Eco " Configuration of the Allison Gearbox didn't help when tackling the Inclines on this route, Which MPDs would tackle with ease back in the day.
The journey somewhat flew over and I arrived at Hexham Bus Station with Bazza and another Enthusiast snapping my Solo, I gave them the thumbs up and he came and greeted me after I disembarked.

Hexham

I had a quick chat with Bazza and the other Enthusiast before heading to Greggs for my Dinner, I returned after 15 Mins and me and Bazza got some photos of Various Hexham Solos and Solars.
Bazza and the other enthusiast were off back to Newcastle on the X85 having caught all bar one Solo in the Hexham Fleet from 9 in the Morning.
Just as Bazza and the other Enthuiast were boarding, A cuaght sight of Jimmi In the crowd, I said my goodbyes to Bazza and the other Enthusiast and I went and joined Jimmi for a good half hour.
We photographed 6084 making a rare appearance on the 10 and that was it, No More Buses appeared in Hexham for a good half hour!
Me and Jimmi got chatting and I thought about abandoning my plan of Haltwhistle and Alston and decided to Join Jimmi for a run to Corbridge.

J3 Hexham Bus Station - Corbridge Town Centre GNE 6073

I jumped on quickly and grabbed the front top deck seats, Jimmi was less fortunate, Being one of the last to get on but still joined me on the top deck, Sitting in the row behind me.
We chatted for most of the short journey and alighted in the centre of a busy Corbridge.

Corbridge

We tried getting a shot of two TEN B9TLs, Unfortunatly both of our shots failed and Jimmi decided to head near the bridge over the Tyne to get some photos -
Which turned out good and the photos are now on mine and jimmis Flickr Accounts now, Its a good spot for photos.

We soon started heading back to head back to Hexham on the    687   556 turned up blinded Not-In-Service and we boarded and took our places at the back of this grubby MPD.

J3 Corbridge - Hexham Bus Station  GNE 687

We departed Corbridge and chatted for most of this journey again, Jimmis plan was to alight at the Train Station and catch PCLs Dart to Wall Village.
He did so and me and Jimmi said our goodbyes and Jimmi alighted at the Train Station and I carried on to the Bus Station.

A Quick wait for the X85 was needed, and to my delight 5230 turned up.

J4 Hexham Bus Station - Eldon Square GNE 5230

5230 is a lovely Scania, Its ZF Gearbox also slipped a few times but was also smooth on the long stretch of A69 all the way to Denton Burn.
Was on my phone for quite a bit of the journey and didn't really take much in and before I knew it, I was at Eldon Square.

A Quick dash to Haymarket to get the 308 to get picked up from Silverlink by my Mam and Dad, Who returning from shopping at Highley Gate Garden Centre!
I was rushing that much I didn't notice Davie standing at Cling on Corner getting photos, He did get a photo of me on 7604 though I believe.

J5 Haymarket Bus Station - Silverlink ANE 7604

A limp DB300 waited for me in Haymarket and the driver put his foot to the floor to get nothing back from the Engine, Absolutely knackered but then are there any DB300s that arnt?

A quick walk from the Silverlink slip road Bus Stop to the MCDonalds car park with a Diet Coke waiting for me ( Specially ordered from the back of 5230  Big Grin  )   in my Familys car.

Then it was just a 10 Min drive back to Brockely Whins through the Tyne Tunnel and home.

I really enjoyed todays trip and hope to do my original plan of Haltwhistle and Alston sometime this year.

Thanks to Bazza and the other Enthusiast for accompanying me for a bit at Hexham Smile
and Thanks to Jimmi for his company for a few hours on this dreary day  Smile

I'm not heading to Kirkby Stephen tomorrow but I hope everyone enjoys it and enjoy your Easter holidays!

Thanks for Reading  Smile

Don't worry STL, I was late too.


(27 Mar 2016, 7:11 am)citaro5284 wrote Canny reviews there from Jimmi and South Tyne Lad, but Davie, disappointed in you my boy..standing at Cling On Corner Tongue
Sorry Citaro!
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
On Tuesday I'm hoping to go to Wallsend, Cobalt and North Shields, so I can get the North Tyne Links MPD's on their last day in livery, I'm also hoping to try and track down 5243, 5244 and 5245 and get more photo's of the Metro Replacement's.
RE: Bus Related Outings and Reviews
Ive just deleted my outing by accident but here it is again

My original plan was to get the 8:35 74 from Eldon Square to Hexham and meet Davie and DanPicken there, Though my bad idea of staying up till 2:00 AM didn't work for getting up at 7:00AM
I revised my plans and decided to wake up at 9:00 AM and get the 11:35 74 to Hexham, Although this resulted in me missing Davie and DanP ( There plan involved leaving Hexham before I got there )
So apologies to Davie and DanP for being late ( Again  Tongue  )

I left the house extremely late at 11:00 AM and dashed to the Metro in my Hoodie and Thermal Coat which was the worst choice of coat to bring on a humid day!
I made it to Brockly Whins Metro for 11:08 and bought my Explorer, I seen a mate from Primary days on the platform days but he didn't see me.

I took my place at the top of the Platform and took my thermal coat off and placed it in my backpack, When I tried to zip the backpack back up the zip snapped!
This involved me having to carry my backpack like a shopping bag for the rest of the day.

And so my journey begins :

J1 Brockely Whins Metro - Haymarket Metro Metrocar 4033

The same metrocar I got on a mere 2 days before on Thursday, The brakes were in need of oiling when the 36 Year old Metrocar pulled in front of me.
I took my place at the front seat facing towards the line, And started trying to fix the zip on my bag...
That's all I done that journey and after long, I arrived at Haymarket having given up trying to fix it and dashed towards Eldon Square with 3 Mins till departure of the 74.

J2 Eldon Square - Hexham Bus Station GNE 667

The official " Enthusiasts Bus " for this week, With me and 5 other Enthusiast's boarding this smart Solo, I took my place at the back on the Mercedes Engine, Accompinied by 2 other Enthusiast's.
We began chatting about transport related things, Involving talking about what type of seats the Solo has to the Enthusiast's past job at Train Operator Grand Central.
We chatted until Stamfordham, Where I moved to the empty row in front because of the ever increasing uncomfort of GNE's E-Leather over the Boiling Engine.
The Solo coped well with the route, Though the " Eco " Configuration of the Allison Gearbox didn't help when tackling the Inclines on this route, Which MPDs would tackle with ease back in the day.
The journey somewhat flew over and I arrived at Hexham Bus Station with Bazza and another Enthusiast snapping my Solo, I gave them the thumbs up and he came and greeted me after I disembarked.

Hexham

I had a quick chat with Bazza and the other Enthusiast before heading to Greggs for my Dinner, I returned after 15 Mins and me and Bazza got some photos of Various Hexham Solos and Solars.
Bazza and the other enthusiast were off back to Newcastle on the X85 having caught all bar one Solo in the Hexham Fleet from 9 in the Morning.
Just as Bazza and the other Enthuiast were boarding, A cuaght sight of Jimmi In the crowd, I said my goodbyes to Bazza and the other Enthusiast and I went and joined Jimmi for a good half hour.
We photographed 6084 making a rare appearance on the 10 and that was it, No More Buses appeared in Hexham for a good half hour!
Me and Jimmi got chatting and I thought about abandoning my plan of Haltwhistle and Alston and decided to Join Jimmi for a run to Corbridge.

J3 Hexham Bus Station - Corbridge Town Centre GNE 6073

I jumped on quickly and grabbed the front top deck seats, Jimmi was less fortunate, Being one of the last to get on but still joined me on the top deck, Sitting in the row behind me.
We chatted for most of the short journey and alighted in the centre of a busy Corbridge.

Corbridge

We tried getting a shot of two TEN B9TLs, Unfortunatly both of our shots failed and Jimmi decided to head near the bridge over the Tyne to get some photos -
Which turned out good and the photos are now on mine and jimmis Flickr Accounts now, Its a good spot for photos.

We soon started heading back to head back to Hexham on the    687   556 turned up blinded Not-In-Service and we boarded and took our places at the back of this grubby MPD.

J3 Corbridge - Hexham Bus Station  GNE 687

We departed Corbridge and chatted for most of this journey again, Jimmis plan was to alight at the Train Station and catch PCLs Dart to Wall Village.
He did so and me and Jimmi said our goodbyes and Jimmi alighted at the Train Station and I carried on to the Bus Station.

A Quick wait for the X85 was needed, and to my delight 5230 turned up.

J4 Hexham Bus Station - Eldon Square GNE 5230

5230 is a lovely Scania, Its ZF Gearbox also slipped a few times but was also smooth on the long stretch of A69 all the way to Denton Burn.
Was on my phone for quite a bit of the journey and didn't really take much in and before I knew it, I was at Eldon Square.

A Quick dash to Haymarket to get the 308 to get picked up from Silverlink by my Mam and Dad, Who returning from shopping at Highley Gate Garden Centre!
I was rushing that much I didn't notice Davie standing at Cling on Corner getting photos, He did get a photo of me on 7604 though I believe.

J5 Haymarket Bus Station - Silverlink ANE 7604

A limp DB300 waited for me in Haymarket and the driver put his foot to the floor to get nothing back from the Engine, Absolutely knackered but then are there any DB300s that arnt?

A quick walk from the Silverlink slip road Bus Stop to the MCDonalds car park with a Diet Coke waiting for me ( Specially ordered from the back of 5230  Big Grin  )   in my Familys car.

Then it was just a 10 Min drive back to Brockely Whins through the Tyne Tunnel and home.

I really enjoyed todays trip and hope to do my original plan of Haltwhistle and Alston sometime this year.

Thanks to Bazza and the other Enthusiast for accompanying me for a bit at Hexham Smile
and Thanks to Jimmi for his company for a few hours on this dreary day  Smile

I'm not heading to Kirkby Stephen tomorrow but I hope everyone enjoys it and enjoy your Easter holidays!

Thanks for Reading.
My New Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/140662069@N02/ - Posts every Weekend at the minimum Smile