(12 Aug 2013, 8:15 am)Michael wrote I hope not just have them as northen... looks like a pointless brand again
I personally think that a striking livery on the X84/X85 is a good idea. I have always thought that the pink Angels had a very striking livery and the reintroduction of pink to the fleet colour scheme will help the services be noticed. They have had very little promotion (though I am not denying it may come soon), so customers need to be persuaded to either a) ditch the 10 with all of its luxuries or b) ditch the 685 which may or may not be as reliable.
With refurbishment on the cards for 5230-33 as well as the introduction of a new brand to the network, GNE may stand a chance of these services being successful. Customers travelling to Hexham on the 685 may need to use other GNE sevices there, so while the 685 may be initially cheaper to get you to Hexham, the overall cost may not be.
As a side note, 5230 may be getting refurbished as @nk55 said was happening rather than being in the paintshop. Seems a little silly to me if GNE aren't getting Thorntons to do the whole job of repainting also but nevermind...