I think the ''Gold'' specification is generally given to those routes that are not only high earners, but are long-distance and in need of an upgrade to make them stand out more in the market.

With the 39/40, for example, they're not exactly comparable to the 300 service in Cumbria, which is Carlisle to Maryport, a very lengthy journey. Whereas the 39/40 are cross-city routes. Even though, in my view, the Hybrids seem fine on the routes, if they were to receive an upgrade, it could just be the addition of a few more facilities that can be found on Go North East and Arriva's most prominent routes; not sure they would be upgraded to the ''Gold'' standard.