A TRAVEL operator has spent nearly £7m to improve its buses.

Go North East says it has bought 47 vehicles to run popular routes.

The first new buses have been introduced on its X66 Metrocentre Gateshead express route, and were launched by the Metrognomes, who feature on its livery.

The firm’s Red Kite service, which follows the Red Kite trail from Newcastle and the Metrocentre to Rowlands Gill and Consett, County Durham, is also receiving new vehicles.

The changes are completed by the renaming of its Lime route to Coast and Country.

The company says the change reflects the fact it follows the coast to country cycle track from Consett to Sunderland, passing through Stanley, Beamish and Washington, Wearside.

The vehicles, which will be phased in over the next few months, are fitted with leather seats, improved lighting, wood effect flooring and wifi.

Kevin Carr, managing director, said: “Each year, we have reinvested every penny of our profits back into improving services.

“These new vehicles will ensure our fleet is one of the most modern in the country.”

Go North East previously spent £14m on 100 vehicles to celebrate its 100th anniversary, with a little help from soul singing legends The Drifters.

It bought the buses for various services, including the Drifter route, which runs from Seaham, County Durham, to Sunderland.

Founded 100 years ago, the firm has a fleet of nearly 700 buses and more than 2,000 staff.