(26 Apr 2014, 4:28 pm)NEBCD Malarkey wrote As for the Optare Solo (457) I would it is Definitely before 2006, as was when Go North East did Service changes to the 638, and of course Re-Numbered it on Several Occasions afterwards, but I have no idea when the Solos were actually Withdrawn, certainly didn't last long with Go North East that's for sure.
The MPDs arrived at Washington during Q4 2002/Q1 2003 iirc.
I think the 638 on that photo would have been the evening 638, which ran Sunderland to Heworth, rather than Sunderland to Crawcrook. I believe Deptford ran it during the day too.