A BUS company and a ferry operator have joined forces to cater for visitors to the region.

In a joint venture by Go North East and DFDS Seaways, the bus company has bought four double-decker buses bearing the ferry operator's livery.

The aim is to provide a first class service for tourists, from the moment they board a ship until their arrival at North-East attractions.

Martin Harris, commercial director at Go North East, said: "Our commitment to improving public transport has translated into over £30m being spent on more than 300 new Easy Access vehicles throughout the North-East.

"The new accessible DFDS Seaways liveried vehicles will improve the whole travel experience for visitors coming into this region as well as those heading abroad."

Carsten Bang, general manager for DFDS Seaways, said: "It will go a long way to improving the first impressions overseas visitors gain of the service provided by North-East and Newcastle companies, and their concept of the region.