Arriva Launches Sapphire in Northumberland

Arriva have launched the upmarket Sapphire brand in Northumberland with a display of vehicles at Newbiggin by the Sea. The upgraded services X21 /X22 commenced on 30th July, running between Newcastle, Ashington and Newbiggin.

 The launch featured appearances by Royal lookalikes

Most of the vehicles concerned have been refurbished in a £1.6m programme to include free WIFI, electrical charging points, leather seats and audio visual bus stop announcements.
Nick Knox, area managing director for Arriva North East said the new service will offer our customers a new and improved experience, we are confident they will be delighted with the enhancements and we hope to encourage more people to join us on board.

 One of the Sapphire vehicles (a 14 reg) in operation in Bedlington on the first day of service

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