I have to say some people on here have right downer on arriva. Where i used to live i had no option but to use them and found i got an efficient service. I've now moved into GNE area and although the service is on equal terms at times missing buses, buses going past bus stops is something I never experience with arriva.

Also in My GNE area i hear about all these new buses with wifi, neon lights, 21 cctv cameras, charging points.... the last GNE bus i used to get home on had no of these and it had no heating either. !

Finally on GNE taking bit of ANE if it was sold.... I cant believe anyone would want a monopoly. even now its not great but imagine if GNE got north of tyne with only limit comp from Stagecoach. My mind boggles at the though!