Spent an enjoyable afternoon at the rally. A few different independents and loved the line up of preserved NE buses; had a great ride on the South Sheilds Atlantean.

I was disappointed in the presentation of some of GNE's offerings - 4898 was a disgrace! Loop and Green Arrow Scanias already look quite rough, and wheels were filthy. Incidentally, why did GNE take off the wheels trims a couple of years ago, eg.. all Volvos used to come with them fitted from new. They also used to keep wheels clean in painted silver.  Compared to First's buses and most Transdev fleets, GNE don't look as smart, well presented and professional. I thought Arriva's fleet put them to shame today.