Had the misfortune to use one of the peak X1s out of Newcastle yesterday, which just echoed again why the current 15 minute frequency is unsuitable.

The bus was on time, and I can see the one before also went out on time, but we left Newcastle full to the brim. By the time we left Gateshead, we had standees on the top deck and passengers sitting on the stairs. I'd just missed the previous bus, so I was maybe 3rd/4th in the queue, but within a couple of minutes, the queue was backed right up again.

On may way into Newcastle, there were two X1s (before 8am) due into the Galleries at the same time; one being on time, with the other being 19 minutes late. Based on the queue that had since formed, I opted for the 4 and Metro.

Although the morning peaks going into Newcastle can be the same, even in the school holidays, it's not just the peaks. These buses are really busy at most times of day, and as soon as you've got one delayed or cancelled, you end up with a real problem on the route.