The problem with putting it out to tender is that I can't imagine many companies would want to take it on. It has no proven track record of success/profitability, plus a few services in the morning and evening are not going to be favourable, I suspect any potential operator would want to run it throughout the day. Also if Stobart run it they can choose the timings/fares and have far more control over the operation. We'll just have to wait and see.