(21 Sep 2016, 5:45 pm)Dan wrote The introduction of nine new coaches (7124 - 7132) has allowed the withdrawal of eight (7093/94, 7096 and 7098-7102). Go North East has gained National Express service 320 which operates between Birmingham and Bradford - the service commences this weekend, which may be the reason why the ninth hasn't been withdrawn.
I believe the two Scanias in the best condition were retained for the demanding National Express service work, which, as you'll be able to appreciate, is more important than selecting two coaches with consecutive fleet numbers. The seasonal Skegness 663 service will be withdrawn on 30th October, so one of 7095/97 may be removed from the Coaching fleet then.
7094/96 are planned to be sold on to another operator, and, providing another operator is interested, the older coaches presently allocated to Hexham will also be sold on.
663 Skegness is due to finish on 7th October this year I think, one of the reasons for taking on the 320 which only runs on Fridays and Sundays, though route may be changing in the future. I am due to be one of the two drivers on this service on Friday...not sure if thats good or bad !! but roll on 3am on Saturday when I'll get home.