Twelve gold Mercedes buses rolled into service on Sunday as part of transport operator Go North East's £2million investment in new vehicles.

The buses, which have ramps and low floors to offer easy access to all, will be used on the 35 South Shields, Sunderland, South Hetton service and have been branded The Laser.

Martin Harris, commercial director at Go North East, said: "We continue to invest in improving bus travel across the region and we hope our brand new Laser buses will tempt even more people out of their cars."

The new Laser buses also feature CCTV cameras and Euro V engines, which bus bosses say will keep carbon emissions to a minimum and provide even more environmental benefits.

The Laser services are backed by Go North East's gold standard service charter, which bus bosses say promises passengers unrivalled quality in terms of reliability and punctuality.

They also say a dedicated team of staff are being trained to make sure the service operates to the highest levels.

Go North East, a member of the Sunderland Partnership's Proud of Sunderland campaign, hopes its buses will add to the city's green, clean reputation.

Mr Harris said: "We are happy to support the Sunderland Partnership in its campaign to position Sunderland as a leading regional destination and good, affordable public transport links have an important role in making sure people can access its many attractions."

Canon Stephen Taylor, chairman of the Sunderland Partnership, said: "Sunderland is building an image as a city where people can expect a better future, a clean, green city offering a balanced way of life."

lThe new buses will run on the existing 35 route, serving South Shields, Fulwell, Sunderland city centre, East Herrington, Doxford International, Houghton, Hetton, Easington Lane and South Hetton. Log on to www.simplygo.com for timetable information.