DEVELOPING THE NORTHERN KITES PROJECT

That this House congratulates Go North East for winning the national bus branding award for the UK for its Red Kite bus service, the highest award in the country for such activity; notes that Go North East was selected for the national award from 190 companies throughout the country; commends Go North East for attracting people to see the Northern Kites, using a more sustainable transport method, and increasing passenger numbers on the relevant routes by over 10 per cent. at the last estimate; acknowledges the service comprises a fleet of nine buses that travel through Gateshead between Newcastle's Eldon Square and Consett; further praises Go North East's subsequent benefits to the community since the launch of the bus service, including paying for the publication of the red kite children's storybook Let's Go Flying Kites, which will further raise awareness of red kites and encourage people to access the kites and countryside using more sustainable transport; appreciates the revival of the red kites in the North East; applauds the environmental, social and economic benefits the Northern Kites project offers the community; and looks forward to the continuing growth and success of the red kite revival.