Believe nothing until it actually happens, there are alot of rumours going around, I know they are starting services in Carlisle against Stagecoach, but I don't think they are going to start here, not yet anyway.
The old Merc's were great fun to drive when they were running right, but they were a pain in the backside when the clutches were on their way out, they nearly shook everyone to death when you were pulling out of a junction!!

As you say, once mastered they were very easy to drive, and alot easier to maneuver around certain routes, the number 1 being prime example!
The new Scania's? 1st September all being well.
I have a feeling 17017 will be out in service next week.