MG - I thought the FW trial was flying out of Benson a few weeks ago, although also heard a rumour it was running back to Manchester at the end of a shift, which didn't seem to make sense. However, if your understanding is correct, it ties in - but still seems a funny way to run a trial when the goal posts are moved within weeks of starting.
Whilst it doesn't really matter where it flies from, if it does come down to crew cost saving, it would seem someone may not have done their homework in the first place . . . nothing that hasn't seen before!
At least, having realised the error, something's actually been done about it in sensible time - shame reaction times aren't so fast in other areas.
Not surprisingly, it's unlikely anyone from the organisation will be able to confirm any of this, since communications are as first class as ever, I gather!
Vortex & SS - I've heard similar noises, although don't quite follow the relevance of your link, SS?