Not that many years ago when there was such a thing as spare vehicles, some of the fleet was out - sourced to outfits like Thorntons for cosmetic overhauls and re - fits? These days with such demands placed on our fleet its mostly get though whatever tests, get them fit enough for service and keep the show going.
Cleaners seem to be a rarity as well but then, as above the only time they get anything like access is when the vehicles come off the road at night or are laid up. A whole load of shiny new vehicles are coming on stream across the region, potentially and hopefully, replacing some of the older stock. Equally hopefully I hope the drivers take care of them.
RE: Arriva State of The Fleet