I don't think Stagecoach are looking for the 'best' conductors, rather
staff will be expected to be multi-functional to cover both driver and
conductor roles which will of necessity rule out the 'life's eternal
conductor' stalwarts which hung on to the end and refused to train for
driver, or who trained amd failed.

Also though I certainly recall BW and U's RM/Ls in pristine condition,
the efforts of First left far more to be desired, especially in later
years. Why wasn't such a small niche operation tendered to one single
operator? The 'competion' element was in the initial tendering process
and will come up for grabs again next time around.

What's to say both fleets won't end up being garaged side-to-side in
adjoining premises in Waterden Road?