(25 Apr 2021, 6:12 pm)Storx wrote Btw you do realise that the X20 originally started in Newbiggin and it got dropped because no-one used it then the X20 got extended to Alnwick after because no-one used the X20 either.Actually, there was a number of reasons behind the X20 variations:
https://web.archive.org/web/201205291215...px?id=9910 - The original timetable, there's no demand for it.
- Original X20 would've likely ran late often due to tight timings. Also, getting the X21 at the time was "easier".
- There was demand for another Amble / Widdrington to Newcastle service so the Widdrington to Amble part was swapped with the 1. Effectively, the X20 also took over the short X18s as the half hourly X18 was also dropped.
- Timings to Amble were too tight and that with the potential to reopen the Alnwick - Ashington link led to it being extended to Alnwick.
As I've said before, cannibalisation worked for GNE in Derwentside and even more so considering they introduced a proper evening X30 & X70 service.
If done correctly, it could make Arriva's Ashington network stable, efficient and offer improved links & journeys.
(25 Apr 2021, 4:31 pm)mb134 wrote I'm not too sure where this comes from? Bar 7484 making regular appearances, the bulk of the X21/22 allocation is made up of 17-plate MMCs with a decent specification.I meant Smartie seats and leaking Cityzens in terms of the golden days if you know what I mean.