The 6/7/8 in Newcastle could really do with being operated by full size single decks, especially on Saturdays. It can be like a sardine can throughout much of the day between West Denton and the Metro Centre. I highly doubt the 55 and 06 reg MANs will be kept going for another 6 years! Four at the absolute most.

As for the 100, the extra long E300s were introduced for a reason and have not been replaced for the same reason. I don't think E400 operation is as unlikely as some people think. Very few drivers choose to operate under the low bridge these days, particularly westbound.

Worth mentioning that the E400H buses are no longer restricted to the 39/40 from this summer as the five year mandated period comes to an end. I'm not suggesting hybrids will necessarily be procured (doubtful) but it's interesting nonetheless.