(09 Sep 2023, 9:58 pm)Storx wrote Must admit I haven't been on but not surprised, it seems bonkers that they're using them on them mind but nothing surprises me anymore around here. It's almost as if they're trying to give people reasons to use the train when it comes through for people close enough.

I would say that, despite agreeing that they shouldn't be allocated, I can see how they've been allocated given it's the first week that type has been allocated to Ashington. Since seating capacity is 23 plus standing (which will be some unrealistic number) *on paper* they probably are theoretically big enough. Additionally, the 57 boards simply call for an Optare Solo so if it gets to the last board out and one of 2601-3 is the only one available, that's what's probably going on the 0752. 

If there are consistent reports of them leaving passengers, which I saw yesterday, then I think we'll see reasonably quickly whether or not they plan on acting on it. However if drivers/passengers don't report them running at capacity then all the depot will have to go on is Ticketer information which will show a loading that, again on paper, they (2601-3) can theoretically carry.