Arriva North East are unveiling 12 brand new buses on the X21 X22 service between Newcastle and Ashington. The state of the art buses feature striking new livery, comfortable e-leather seating, and the very latest in journey planning technology. There are many great features on board too, including usb charging ports, free WiFi and audio/visual next stop announcements – great if you aren’t familiar with the area or are new to bus travel.

The buses were officially unveiled at Ashington Leisure Centre by local MP Ian Lavery. There was also an information stand on Station Road, Ashington where Arriva staff were on hand to answer any questions from the public aswel as lots of giveaways. Ashington is the first area in North East to operate the brand new premium buses which represent an investment of £2.9m.

Nick Knox, area managing director for Arriva North East said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the new and improved Sapphire brand to Newcastle and Ashington which we have now invested a further £2.9m in. These brand new buses will offer customers a new and improved experience, we’re confident that customers will be delighted with the new enhancements.