(22 May 2018, 3:53 pm)Dan wrote It had been VOR since the Metro Replacement service a few weeks ago, when it broke down heading back home. It has been fitted with a new gearbox as Jamie said, returning to service just last week, so good news that it's solid as ever!

OmniDekkas should be allocated to the 819, 821, 822 (829), 824, 826 and 828.
The fleet livery Volvo B9s should be allocated to the 823 (X21) and 825 (10X).

You're right in suggesting that they're allocated to the scholars which work onto the evening peak services out of Newcastle - the intention being to up the quality of these services, which are ordinarily allocated higher specification vehicles. The Volvo B9s are equipped with Wi-Fi, so that partly meets the specification of the daytime 10 and X21.

(copying over from Rare/odd workings)

Is there any news on how the two (e)leather seated B9s are comparing to the others (6155/58)? I prefer them generally now, I find the cloth holds the dirt and grub a lot stronger than the (e)leather does. Wouldn't say more comfortable (or less, for a matter of fact) but I believe they generally look smarter and a good way forward as a standard seating arrangement.