(29 Apr 2026, 7:51 pm)S830OFT wrote Overheard a conversation today about the Sunderland Connect routes, amongst discussed was that the "terrifying & bone-chilling" James Fairchild has fled to Ukraine on what he is in his own words is alleged to have said is a 'Humanitarian Mission' involving delivering an MCV bus to Ukraine.

Only down side to that is the drivers in the UK on the Connect contract have been left uninformed having apparently not recieved their last wages for their work & concern growing that the company could cease trading.

For a Small Route, its done some big damage to them. At first it seemed alright when it was first said they had won the contract and started and then they started to grow. However, It does Remind me of A-Line. Was all fine, once they grew something happened to the Owner/Top of the Company which lead to the damage being done and then closing. With City I think the 700/701 was only "cool" because of the Artic Citaros. I do hope whoever takes over from Go North East's emergency run can run it well and can have a good Economic Balance.
If Fuel is the issue, just let Stagecoach have it. Pretty sure they can make the 700/701 much better with the Electrics.

Also Hopefully the drivers get sorted and find somewhere to go if the Company was to cease.