Trip to Blurton / Trent Vale 31-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67633	Magdalen Road, Blurton	Trent Vale, opp Chubb Way	22	First Potteries

Today Matthew was going to the pub for his tea, but not before he had been to his day service. He was in his residential unit and was also going back to Blurton later today. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Whilst waiting to go to the day service we saw First Potteries 63172 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63172 in Fenton

We also saw Lucky Seven PK08 GGE going towards Stoke.

Lucky Seven PK08 GGE in Fenton

Went it was time to go Matthew walked to the day centre. We set off onto Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre. In the morning Matthew did some baking, making a jam filled cake. For dinner Matthew had a ham sandwich followed by some of the cake he had made. In the afternoon Matthew went to the pub. He set off onto Christchurch Street and across the road to the local pub. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a glass of Coke. After spending the afternoon in the pub Matthew walked back to the residential unit. We set off down Clifton Street and we turned right onto Marlborough Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and right again onto Temple Street and to the residential unit/ Whilst Matthew waited for me to pick him up he went up to his room to watch buses. Whilst there we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 783 going towards Stoke.

Copelands Tours MIB 783 in Fenton

I was on my way up to pick Matthew up for the weekend. Also going towards Stoke was Magnum minibus BX60 AAK.

Magnum BX60 AAK in Fenton

we also saw First Potteries 67643 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67643 in Fenton

A few minutes later we saw Copelands Tours coach MIB 270 going towards Stoke.

Copelands Tours MIB 270 in Fenton

Also going towards Stoke was Travel Express Airport minibus GJ03 LFE.

Travel Express Airport GJ03 LFE in Fenton

When I arrived to pick him up Matthew grabbed his phone, bus pass and batteries and we went down to the car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. At the end we turned right onto Station Bridge Road and we followed this around onto Heron Street. We went through heron Cross and over the A50 into Blurton along Blurton Road. We caught up with First Potteries 67633 which we would be on later. We turned right into Church Street and right into Beaconsfield Drive. We passed First Potteries 67632 on the #22 to Longton. We got home around 15:00 and Matthew had toast and glass of dandelion & burdock. Today we went to catch the 16:26 to Newcastle. We set off on foot to the bus stop all the way onto Magdalen Road. We had seen bus earlier and it was booked to be dud First Potteries 67633. As few minutes later, as expected and on time we saw First Potteries 67633 turned the corner.

First Potteries 67633 in Blurton

We got on the bus and we booked to Harpfield Road before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto the A5035 and we passed First Potteries 67632 on the #22 to Longton. We ran over the railway line into Trentham and we turned right into New Inn Lane and we saw First Potteries 67157 on the #21 to Trentham. We continued up New Inn Lane and we ran into Hanford. We turned right into Wilson Road and we ran down Church Lane and we joined the A34. We caught up with First Potteries 67153 on a #21A to Hanley. We crossed under the A500 into Trent Vale we then saw E-zec patient transport YN15 FJY & YJ16 GGX go past us. We turned right onto Harpfields Road where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another First Potteries 67633 before it carried on towards Newcastle.

First Potteries 67633 in Trent Vale

Once off the bus we saw another #22 coming... We crossed over the road and Matthew got a picture of First Potteries 67634 on the final #22 turn going towards Longton.

First Potteries 67634 in Trent Vale

We walked onto the a34 and towards the pub. As we approached the pub mum drove past us and into the car park. We went inside the pub and Matthew had a brunch with oatcakes followed by toffee sponge pudding with ice cream. Whilst we ate highlights of the passing buses included Stanton's of Stoke VUD 483 Going Northwards as well as First Potteries 65042 on a #101 to Stafford. We also saw ABC Supreme mini coaches KX13 DZL & KX14 EBZ. When it was time to go we got in the car to go pick up uncle Dave. We ran down the A34 and we got onto the Northbound A500. We went Eastwards along the A50 to Heron Cross and dropped down into Fenton to pick up uncle Dave. Once we had picked him up we returned to Heron Cross and we crossed the A50. We ran along Blurton Road and stopped vbriefly at the shop to drop something off before we continued up Blurton Road and right onto Church Road. We turned right into Beaconsfield Drive. We got home around 18:15. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we sorted a few things out. We then chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark

Trip to Fenton / Hanley 29-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
53829	Fenton, Victoria Place	Hanley, Lichfield Street	6A	First Potteries
63178	Hanley, stop O 1	Fenton, adj Victoria Place	6	First Potteries
DY08 FFX	Fenton	Westport Lake	Charter	Shelton Care Group
DY08 FFX	Westport Lake	Fenton	Charter	Shelton Care Group

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Matthew got up and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Whilst waiting for time to got to the day centre Matthew spent time in his room watching buses. We saw First Potteries 67642 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67642 in Fenton

Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street where we saw First Potteries 67158 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67158 in Fenton

In the morning went to Hanley on the bus. We set off on foot onto Glebedale Road and across City Road. At the top we went around the corner onto Victoria Road to wait for the bus at the bus stop. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was unusually First Potteries 53829 on a #6A to Hanley.

First Potteries 53829 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down Victoria Road and we crossed over the A52 at Joiners Square. We ran up Lichfield Street and we crossed over the ring road. We then got up and got off the bus at the stop outside the bus station. We walk up Lichfield Street and through Hanley to the Intu Potteries shopping centre. Matthew went to HMV and Game and brought some stuff to use back at the day centre. When we had finished shopping we walked back along parliament row and we went to McDonalds for dinner. Matthew used the toilet and then had a burger meal with fries and a cup of Coke. Once we had finished eating we continued down Parliament Row and we turned right onto Old Hall Street. to down Lichfield Street and to the bus station. We waited at the stop outside for a bus back to Fenton and we saw First Potteries 63178 on a #6 to Weston Coyney. We set off up onto Old Hall Street. and we turned right onto the ring road. Weran around to Lichfield Street and we turned left. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and then across the roundabout onto Victoria Road. At the top of the road by the square we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took a picture of First Potteries 63178 as it continued towards Weston Coyney.

First Potteries 63178 in Fenton

Once we got off the bus we walked onto City Road and we crossed over before turning left onto Glebedale Road. We walked to the day centre and we got on Shelton care Group DY08 FFX for a trip to Westport Lake. We set off down temple Street and onto City Road, and we joined the Northbound A52. We turned left onto Station Road and we turned right onto College Road. We ran through Shelton and we ran forwards onto Regent Road. At the end we turned left onto Lichfield Street. We joined the anti-clockwise ring road and we around to town Road. We left townand we joined the A5272. We ran through Sneyd Green and at Smallthorne roundabout we veered left onto Moorland Road. We crossed through Burslem and we ran down Newcastle Street down to Trubshaw Cross. We turned right onto davenport Street and we turned left into Westport lake. At the lake Matthew walked around the pool before returning to Shelton care Group DY08 FFX for the journey back to Fenton. We turned right onto Davenport Road and we ran down to Trubshaw Cross. We turned right onto the A5271. At the roundabout we turned left onto the A500 and we ran fast through Etruria and Stoke. We came off the A500 at City Road and we went up the hill to Fenton, and we turned right onto Glebedale Road. Once back at the day centre we walked back to the residential unit. We walked down to Christchurch Street and we turned left onto Temple Street. In the residential unit matthew went to his room and had some toast and used his computer. Me and mum came to visit and we caught up on the weekends bus sightings and tdid some of the Blog, We also watched buses out of the window and we saw C.M.P minibus BG12 NRU on the road opposite.

C.M.P BG12 NRU in Fenton

Matthew went into the sitting room and had tea. tea this evening was fish and chips with tomato sauce followed by cake. Matthew returned to his room and we saw First Potteries 67154 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67154 in Fenton

Later on Matthew went out shopping. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We crossed over City Road and we walked along Manor Street to the other end. We turned left onto Victoria Road and we walked down to Aldi. At the supermarket Matthew brought some shopping which included bananas, carrots and cake. Once we had finished we returned to the residential unit in a Intercity taxi. We ran back up Victoria Road and right onto George Street. We turned left onto Manor Street and we turned right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. After put the shopping away Matthew returned to his room. Matthew had a bath and then got ready for bed. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Fenton / Birches Head 28-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
DY08 FFX	Fenton	Birches Head	Charter	Shelton Care Group
DY08 FFX	Birches Head	Fenton	Charter	Shelton Care Group

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw D&G Bus 113 on an 'Orange ONE' to Meir.

D&G 113 in Fenton

Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Christchurch Street and past the square to the day centre. In the morning Matthew went on the computer. For dinner Matthew had cheese on toast followed by cake. In the afternoon Matthew walked to the swimming baths. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we turned left onto City Road. We walked down the hill and we turned right onto the private road on which the baths are situated. Matthew got changed and had a session in the pool. We then saw City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form BX66 DNE.

City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form BX66 DNE in Fenton

We travelled back to the day centre in a Intercity taxi. We set off along the private road towards City Road and we turned left. We ran up the hill and we turned right into Glebedale Street and to the day centre. When it was time we walked back to the residential unit. We set off onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto Temple Street. Matthew went up to his room and went onto his computer. He also had some toast. Whilst waiting for tea Matthew saw First Potteries 63175 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63175 in Fenton

We also saw D&G Bus 112 on an 'Orange ONE' service to Newcastle.

D&G 112 in Fenton

Before tea Matthew went out for a walk to fetch his tea. we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We ordered sausages and chips gravy and then we walked back along Smithpool Road and onto Temple street. Matthew went into the living room to have tea. matthew ate his sausages and chips gravy and then had cake for afters. Later on Matthew went out to the club on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto baker Street. At the end we turned left onto Glebedale Road and right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned sharp Left onto Victoria Road. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we turned right onto the A52. We ran North to Bucknall and we continued onto the A5009 we saw First Potteries 53830 running out of service. After passing through Abbey Hulton we turned left onto Birches Head Road. We arrived at our destination and Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew spent the time listening to music and even had a quick dance. When it was time to go home Matthew boarded Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Birches Head roan and we turned right onto the A5009. At Bucknall we went forwards onto the A52 an we ran up to Joiners Square. We turned right onto Victoria Road and at the top we turned sharp left onto City Road. We turned left onto Glebedale Road and right onto Gimson Street. We then crossed Christchurch Street and straight onto Masterson Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and right onto Temple Street and back the residential unit. Matthew had a bath and then chilled out in his room on his computer. For supper Matthew had toast. Matthew went to bed around 23:00... Mark...

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 25-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67156	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Hanley BS	23	First Potteries
65033	Hanley BS	Newcastle BS	101	First Potteries
159	Newcastle BS	Hanley BS	9	D&G
67153	Hanley BS	Fenton, opp Albert Square	23	First Potteries
LB11 LVV	Fenton	Hanley Park	Charter	City Cabs
LB11 LVV	Hanley Park	Fenton	Charter	City Cabs

Today Matthew was in residential and he was going to his day service. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Today Matthew was going out on a local trip from the residential unit. We set off onto City Road and we walked down to the bus stop to wait for a bus to Hanley. Whilst at the bus stop we saw First Potteries Solo 53122 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 53122 in Fenton

A few minutes later we saw the approaching.. As it got closer we saw that it was dud First Potteries 67156 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67156 in Fenton

We got on the bus and booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we joined the A52 and ran under the railway line. After crossing over the A500 we ran into Stoke town centre along Church Street. We followed the one-way system around onto Elenora Street and right onto Copeland Street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we ran under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. After stopping briefly outside the railway station we turned right onto College Road and we ran up the hill through Shelton. We continued onto Cleveland Road and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We crossed over the ring road and we continued along Bethesda Street before turning right onto John Street. We ran up the hill into the bus station and onto stand. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. In the bus station we saw required D&G Bus 146 on a #16 to Leek.

D&G 146 in Hanley bus station

A few minutes later we spotted First Potteries 65033 on a #101 to Stafford, which we decided to do. We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto John Street. At the bottom of the hill we turned right onto Bethesda Street before turning left onto Broad Street. We saw Arriva Midlands 3692 on a #164 to Hanley. We continued onto Snow Hill and at the roundabout we turned right onto Shelton New Road. We ran down the hill and over the canal and railway line and we climbed up the hill into Hartshill. After crossing the traffic lights on Victoria Street we continued to the edge of Newcastle. At the roundabout we ran onto george street and we ran down the hill into Newcastle and onto the one-way system. After crossing the Jubilee roundabout we turned left onto Barracks Road and we turned right into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and in the bus station we saw D&G Bus 115 on a #73 to Park Site.

D&G 115 in Newcastle bus station

On Stubbs Street we saw First Potteries 66303 which appeared to have broken down and was receiving attention from a bus fitter.

First Potteries 66303 in Newcastle bus station

A few minutes later we saw it was D&G 159 on a 'Nines' service to Biddulph.

D&G 159 in Newcastle bus station

We decided to do this bus so we got on it and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto Barracks Road. We ran down to the A34 and we headed South to the hospital where we turned left. We saw City Centre Central minibus SD10 BMZ. We ran through the hospital grounds and out the other side onto Hilton Road. At the roundabout we went left onto Newcastle lane and we ran up the hill into the centre of Penkhull. We turned left onto St Thomas Place and forwards onto Princes Street. We past the old school on the left which is now a new soft play area and the old North Staffs Royal Infirmary. At the end of the road we turned right onto the A52 and we ran down into Stoke. We passed through Church Street and we crossed over the A500. after running under the railway line we followed the A52 around to the left running parallel to the railway line. We then turned left onto to station Road. After stopping briefly outside the railway station we turned right onto College Road and we ran up the hill through Shelton. We continued onto Cleveland Road and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We crossed over the ring road and we continued along Bethesda Street before turning right onto John Street. We ran up the hill into the bus station and onto stand. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw The Travellers Choice National Express liveried coach PO62 LMK on a #333 service to Bournemouth.

The Travellers Choice PO62 LMK in Hanley bus station

Matthew then went for dinner at McDonalds. We set off on foot onto Lichfield Street and at the top we turned right onto Old Hall Street. We turned left onto parliament Row and we went into McDonalds Matthew used the toilet and then had a burger meal with fries and a cup of Coke. After we had finished eating we walked back to the bus station. We set off onto Parliament Row and we turned right onto Old Hall Street. We turned left onto Lichfield Street by Blackburn House and we walked down to the bus station. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 67153 on the #23 to Blurton. We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto john Street. At the bottom of the hill we turned left onto Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road. We continued to the end of Bethedsa Street and we turned right onto Regent Road. We ran forwards onto College Road and we ran down the hill through Shelton. We turned left onto Station Road and we stopped briefly outside the railway station. At the end of station road we turned right onto Glebe Street. We ran onto the one-way system and we followed it onto Church Street. After crossing over the A500 we ran under the railway line onto City Road. We ran up the hill and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. When we got to Albert Square we got up and got off the bus. We then walked back to the residential unit. Once inside matthe went up to his room and chilled on on his computer as well as watching buses out of the wind. We saw First Potteries 32647 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 32647 in Fenton

We also saw Magnum taxi minibus SF54 LPP on the road opposite.

Magnum SF54 LPP in Fenton

later on Matthew had sausages and chips for tea followed by cake. After tea Matthew went out. We took a City Cabs minibus LB11 LVV to Hanley Park. we set off down City Road and at the bottom of the hill we turned right onto the A52. We continued past the station and we turned left onto Cauldon Road. We turned right onto Boughey Road and we stopped on The Avenue where we got off out of City Cabs minibus LB11 LVV. Matthew then walked around Hanley Park for a while. We walk northwards through the park and into the North West corner to the sensory play area. After spending a while there we walkd back to the South East corner of the park. We returned back to Fenton in a City Cabs minibus LB11 LVV. We set off along The Avenue and otno Boughey Road. We turned left onto Cualdon Road and we ran down to the A52 where we turned right. We continued along the A52 past the railway station and onto City Road. We ran u the hill and to the residential unit. We went back inside and then Matthew had a bath and got ready for bad. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Fenton / Longton 22-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67632	Fenton, adj Victoria Place	Longton Interchange	6A	First Potteries
63097	Longton Interchange	Fenton, adj Victoria Place	6	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw First Potteries 63179 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 63179 in Fenton

Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Christchurch Street and past the square to the day centre. In the morning Matthew went to Longton to do some shopping. we set off on foot onto Glebedale Road and across City Road. At the top we crossed over Victoria Road to wait for the bus at the bus stop. We saw MT Travel DK60 CWY going towards Hanley. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was dud First Potteries 67632 on a #6A to Blythe Bridge.

First Potteries 67632 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Longton Interchange before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off up City Road and forwards onto King street we saw First potteries 66962 on a #6A to Hanley. When we got to Longton we turned right onto baths Road and we went into the interchange. Once we got off the bus we went to Tesco to do some shopping. Matthew did his food shop which included jam. Once we had finished shopping at Tesco we walked into Longton and onto The Strand. We went into the Bennett precinct and Matthew visited the Card Factory to by some more stuff for Mothers Day. We walked back to the Interchange and we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 63097 on a #6 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63097 in Longton Interchange

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the interchange and right onto baths Road. At the traffic lights we turned left under the railway bridge and onto King Street. We continued down through Foley into Fenton and forwards onto City Road. After crossing over the first roundabout we turned right at the next one onto Victoria Road where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked onto City Road and down onto Glebedale Road. For dinner Matthew had fish fingers and chips followed by cake. In the afternoon Matthew went on the computer. When it was time to go we set off on foot onto Christchurch Street and onto Temple Street and to the residential unit. Matthew went to his room and had some toast and used his computer. For tea Matthew had Chicken and Chips followed by cake. Whilst in his room we saw white minibus 13 EWX on the road opposite.

13 EWX in Fenton

Later on Matthew went for a walk around Fenton. We set off onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto Bakers Street. We turned right onto Glebedale Road and we went onto the flat field at the base of the pit hill. After a quick walk around the green space Matthew returned to the residential unit. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we turned left onto Baker Street. We turned right onto Christchurch Street and into the residential unit. Matthew had a bath and then got ready for bed. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Fenton / Birches Head 21-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
63177	Fenton, Berry Hill Road	Hanley O/s bus station	6	First Potteries
DV10 JCU	Fenton, Dewsbury Road	Fenton	Charter	Shelton Care Group
DY08 FFX	Fenton	Birches Head	Charter	Shelton Care Group
DY08 FFX	Birches Head	Fenton	Charter	Shelton Care Group

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. Across the road we saw white minibus BX09 KYW.

BX09 KYW in Fenton

We also saw First Potteries 63178 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 63178 in Fenton

Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street. At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DV10 JCU.

Shelton Care Group DV10 JCU in Fenton

In the morning Matthew went down to Fenton. We set off of foot onto Glebedale Road and we turned left onto City Road. After crossing over the road we turned right into Manor Street. At the end we turned left onto Victoria Road. Part way down Victoria Road we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 279.

Copeland's Tours MIB 279 in Fenton

Further down the road we stopped at McDonalds to use the toilet. We carried on down the road towards Asda and we stopped at the bus stop. we then saw First Potteries 63177 on a #6 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off down Victoria Road and at Joiners Square roundabout we went straight across onto Lichfield Street. At the top of the hill we went straight across at the next roundabout and we stopped at the bus stand outside the bus station. Once off the bus we walked along birch Terrace where we saw First Potteries 41496 on a #12 to Longton. We carried onto to Percy Street and we crossed over Old Hall Street onto parliament Row. We visited the Pound Bakery and Matthew had a Madeira Cake. We continued down Parliament Row and we turned left onto Lamb Street. We stopped at Primark to buy a present for mum's mothers day and we also stopped at The Card Factory to buy the rest. Once Matthew had done his shopping we walked back along lamb Street and Parliament Row. We continued down to Birch Terrace and we saw Copeland's Tours coach MIB 229.

Copeland's Tours MIB 229 in Hanley

We then walked back to Fenton. We crossed over the ring road and we walked down Lichfield Street. At the roundabout we crossed over the A52 and we went up Victoria Road. We walked as far as Dewsbury Road where Shelton Care Group DV10 JCU. We got on the minibus and we set off up Victoria Road. At the top we turned sharp right onto city Road and then left onto Glebedale Road and back to the day centre. For dinner Matthew had fish fingers and chips followed by Madeira Cake. In the afternoon Matthew went swimming. We set off on foot down City Road and onto the private road on which the baths are situated. Matthew went swimming and then we returned to the day centre in a Lucky seven taxi. We got in the taxi and we went along City Road and Glebedale Road. After stopping in at the daycentre Matthew walked down to the residential unit. Matthew chilled out in his room and used his computer. For tea Matthew had beans on toast. Later on Matthew went out to a disco on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto baker Street. At the end we turned left onto Glebedale Road and right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned sharp Left onto Victoria Road. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we turned right onto the A52. We ran North to Bucknall and we continued onto the A5009. After passing through Abbey Hulton we turned left onto Birches Head Road and we saw Intercity KX09 DGY. We arrived at our destination and Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew spent the time listening to music and even had a quick dance. When it was time to go home Matthew boarded Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Birches Head roan and we turned right onto the A5009. At Bucknall we went forwards onto the A52 an we ran up to Joiners Square. We turned right onto Victoria Road and at the top we turned sharp left onto City Road. We turned left onto Glebedale Road and right onto Gimson Street. We then crossed Christchurch Street and straight onto Masterson Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and right onto Temple Street and back the residential unit. Matthew had a bath and then chilled out in his room on his computer. For supper Matthew had toast. Matthew went to bed around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Wolverhampton / Walsall 18-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
4152	Wolverhampton BS	Bilston, War Memorial (Stop BB)	79	NX West Midlands
2706	Bilston Interchange	Bloxwich, Bulls Head (Stop BA)	326	Arriva Midlands
2118	Bloxwich, Bulls Head (Stop BD)	Walsall St Pauls BS	302	NX West Midlands
4540	Walsall St Pauls BS	Wolverhampton BS	69	NX West Midlands
3748	Wolverhampton BS	Compton, Martham Drive (W Bound)	9	Arriva Midlands
4797	Compton, Compton Square	Wolverhampton BS	10A	Arriva Midlands
5402	Wolverhampton BS	Wednesfield, Church Street(nwmjpawp)	59	NX West Midlands
4133	Wednesfield, Church Street(nwmjpawt)	Wolverhampton BS	59	NX West Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Wolverhampton. It was going to be the last trip that we did with Matthew for nearly 2 weeks so we wanted to make it a special one. We showed Matthew the map of the Midlands and North West area and on the map Matthew chose Wolverhampton. We checked the weather for the area and it was for mainly dry weather with some sunshine and showers. Research for the trip consisted of going on the Network West Midlands website and downloading Wolverhampton area map. I think Matthew wanted to ride on a few more of the national Express West Midlands Y reg Dennis Trident double deckers. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We set off around 11:30 and we ran down to the A5035. We headed into Trentham and when we got to Trentham Gardens we turned right onto the A34. At the next set off lights we went left onto Whitmore Road and we ran up the hill to the A519. We turned right onto the A519 and then left at the roundabout onto the Southbound M6. As we ran South we passed a number of vehicles. We saw 4 unidentified Birmingham International coaches, an unidentified Aston Manor coach, an unidentified Wheelers coach as well as Park's of Hamilton (National Express) LSK 519 (#570) & an unidentified white Renault minibus. We came off the M6 at junction 12 and we went Eastwards to the Truckers Rest on the south side of the A5 just before Cannock, where we stopped for dinner. Matthew went to the toilet and mum ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast which he washed down with a can of Coke. Once we had finished we got back in the car and we went West along the A5. At the lights we turned left onto Vicarage Road. We ran through the village of Four Ashes and then we turned left onto the A449. We ran South down the A449 for around 5 miles until we got to the edge of Wolverhampton and then we went onto the anti-clockwise ring road. We ran past the bus and railway stations and then we turned left onto Bilston Street. We turned right onto Pipers Row and then left into Castle Street where we stopped to get out of the car. We said goodbye to mum and we walked to the bus station whilst mum went to park the car somewhere. The first thing we saw when we entered the bus station was required National Express West Midlands Dennis Trident double decker 4152 about to work the next #79 to West Bromwich.

NX West Midlands 4152 in Wolverhampton bus station

We decided to do this bus so we waited for the crew to change over and the driver to ready the bus for service. We got on and we booked nBus day tickets at £4.30 each before we went upstairs. As we waited for the bus to depart I checked the football fixtures to see where West Brom were playing. West Brom were at home and in the early kick off against Arsenal so going to west Brom on the bus today was perhaps not the best option! We set off out of the bus station and onto Pipers Row. We stopped at the roundabout and we spotted that the bus in front of us was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4152.

Inside NX West Midlands 4152

We ran onto the A41 and we ran South Eastwards for a mile or so. Before the road and the tram line separated we saw an old petrol station on the left which now appeared to be a a garage for a minibus company. In the yard we saw maroon minibuses RJ04 WNT & P238 OEV. We also saw an unidentified Thandi Coaches maroon coloured double decker tri-axle coach go across the road in front of us. The road and the tram line separated and we continued for around another mile or so into Bilston town centre. When we got to the stop by the war memorial we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 4152 before it continued south to West Bromwich.

NX West Midlands 4152 in Bilston

Once off the bus bus we crossed over Lichfield Street and we walked Northwards towards the roundabout. We then walked along Hall Street towards the Interchange. We stopped at the bridge so Matthew could take a picture of the Birmingham bound tram below us. Once in the interchange we had a look around to see what we could catch. We saw required Arriva Midlands 2156 on layover and we also saw dud National Express West Midlands 4136 arrive on a #82 to Dudley. We also saw required Banga Travel V261 DRB on a #530 to Rocket Pool.

Banga Travel V261 DRB in Bilston interchange

A few minutes later we saw an Arriva Midlands bus come into the Interchange. It was dud Arriva Midlands 2706 which was about to work a #326 service to Bloxwich.

Arriva Midlands 2706 in Bilston interchange

We decided to do the bus so after the driver had readied it for service, we got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the Interchange and we turned left onto Hall Street and then turned left onto the A41. We turned right onto Mount Pleasant and right onto Beckett Street. We turned left onto Lunt Road which runs parallel to the Black Country Route for a short while and we swept North along Vulcan Road and Lunt Road on Darlston Lane. We Crossed Willenhall Road onto Moseley Road and we turned right onto Beccles Drive. We continued onto Dilloways Lane and we crossed the A454 before we entered Willenhall from the West. We decided to get off in Willenhall. We came into the town and we turned left onto Cheapside. We left Willenhall along Lower Lichfield Street and we ran North Eastwards onto Stringes Lane. We continued onto Charles Street and we turned left onto the A462. We travel through Shortheath and continued north up to New Invention. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A4124 and we ran under the M6 and travelled East for around a mile. We turned right onto Sneyd Hall Road and we ran around the housing estate along central Drive. We turned left onto the B4210 and at the traffic light we turned right onto the A4124 again. We continued to the A34 and we headed South into Bloxwich. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 2706.

Inside Arriva Midlands 2706

Once we got off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2706 before it returned to Bilston on the next #326 service.

Arriva Midlands 2706 in Bloxwich

We walked down the High Street and we crossed over the road and visited the Martin's newsagents. Matthew had a can of Coke and a small bottle of Barr cola as well as a couple of chocolate bars. Once we had paid for the stuff we came out of the shop and i asked if Matthew want to walk onto Wolverhampton Road to catch a #89 or cross over to wait for something going towards Walsall. Matthew chose to go towards Walsall so we crossed back over the High Street and we walked towards the stop. On the way we saw Arriva Midlands 3308 on a #2 to Walsall.

Arriva Midlands 3308 in Bloxwich

We stood at the stop and we waited for the next Walsall bound bus. A few minutes later we saw a National Express West Midlands single decker bus in the distance. As it got closer we saw that it was required National Express West Midlands 2118 on a #302 to Walsall.

NX West Midlands 2118 in Bloxwich

We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down the High Street and we turned slight left onto the B4210 and we headed the 2 miles or so into Walsall. Coming the other way we passed Rotala Diamond 30854 on a #301 to Mossley and iGo KX08 OLB on a #25 service to Kingstanding. We crossed the ring road and we headed into the bus station down St Pauls Street. The bus pulled up on the end of one of the adjacent stands and we let the bus empty out before Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 2118.

Inside NX West Midlands 2118

Once we got off the bus we headed to the toilet and Matthew used the facilities. We then had a wander around to see what buses were about. We walked through the bus station and onto Hatherton Road where we saw Arriva Midlands 2704 on layover in between workings on the #35A to Lichfield.

Arriva Midlands 2704 in Walsall

We also saw Arriva Midlands 3307 whcih was about to work a #2 to Cannock. We walked back into the bus station and we spotted National Express West Midlands 4540 which was about to work a #69 service to Wolverhampton.

NX West Midlands 4540 in Walsall bus station

We decided to do this bus so we crossed over to the stand and we waited for the bus to be readied for service. We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out off the bus station and we ran along St Pauls Street. At the roundabout we ran onto Green Lane and we crossed over the ring road. We ran North for around a 1/2 mile and then we turned left onto Stephenson Avenue. We entered the Reedswood retail Park and we stopped outside Sainsbury's before we returned back onto the main road. We ran North along Stephenson Avenue and around the Beechdale housing estate where we passed National Express West Midlands 4164 on a #70A to Walsall. We turned left onto Stephenson Square and we ran do to Eddison Road. At the end we turned right onto Cavendish Road and we ran past a pub where there were around 5 ABC Supreme minibuses parked up! We ran forwards onto Bentley lane and we crossed over the M6. We then ran through a woodland area and past Willenhall Cemetery before we entered Shortheath. We briefly joined the A462 before we turned right onto Bloxwich Road North. We ran North up to Pooles Lane and we turned left onto A4124. We passed through New invention and at the next roundabout we turned right onto the A462. We turned right onto Coppice Farm Way and we ran back Southwards towards the A4124. We noticed the bus in front of us was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4540.

Inside NX West Midlands 4540

We continued West along the A4124 and then we turned right onto peacock Avenue up towards Ashmore. We turned left onto Grifiths Drive and we ran Southwards to a big roundabout. We turned right onto Linthouse lane and we went Westwards for another 1/2 mile. We crossed over a roundabout onto Lower Prestwood Road and forwards onto Prestwood Road West. After around another 1/2 mile we turned left into New Cross hospital and we ran through the grounds, turning right onto Wolverhampton Road. We were now back in familiar territory just to the West of Wednesfield town centre. We headed West and we turned right onto the A4124. We ran back into town along the dual carriageway and we crossed under the railway line. We crossed the ring road and we ran along the contraflow lane adjacent to the ring road that took us straight to the entrance of the bus station. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. We considered what bus to do next. We walked up the centre of the bus station and at the top was Travel Express Dart Y864 TGH which was about to set off on a #32 service to Northwood park.

Travel Express Y864 TGH in Wolverhampton bus station

We decided not to do this bus and Matthew then wanted to use the toilet. Matthew used the facilities and then we spotted Arriva Midlands 3748 come into the bus station on a #9 service to Telford via Bridgenorth.

Arriva Midlands 3748 in Wolverhampton bus station

Matthew decided he wanted to do this bus so we walked down the Eastern side of the bus station to the stand on which it was stood. As we waited to get on I quickly whipped out my Wolverhampton bus map and looked which direct the bus went out of town. I saw it went through Compton and I had a vague recollection of catching a bus to their just before Christmas. We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus ticket to the driver, stating we were going as far as Compton. We then sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and onto the ring road we came back inside the town along Broad Street and we turned right into princes square and left into Lichfield Street. We ran out of town stopping on Lichfield street and Darlington Street and we crossed the ring road onto Chapel Ash. We continued West along the A454 and road very quickly became rural. About 2 miles West of the ring road we came into village of Compton. At the main junction we turned left onto Bridgenorth Road. We decided to get up at this point which was lucky as we had gone to far to be of use. Once of the bus we walked the 200 or so yards back into the centre of the village and we crossed over the road to the stop. At this point there were 4 buses an hour, and there was one due in a few minutes. The bus came barrelling around the corner off the Holloway, and it was an Arriva Midlands double decker! As it got closer we saw that it was required Arriva Midlands 4797 on the #10A service to Wolverhampton.

Arriva Midlands 4797 in Compton

We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We ran back into town down the A454 and passed the Harley Davidson Shop on Chapel Ash. We crossed the ring road onto Salop Street and we ran forwards onto Cleveland Street. We turned left onto Garrick Street and we then turned right onto Bilston Street. We ran past the police station and onto the ring road and then enter the bus station. We let the bus empty and then Matthew took a picture inside the top deck of Arriva Midlands 4797.

Inside Arriva Midlands 4797

The plan was now to do a very quick out and back service that would only take 30-45 minutes. There wre a fewoptions around that we let go for one reason or another, that left us with a run up to Wednesfield with National Express West Midlands 5402.

NX West Midlands 5402 in Wolverhampton bus station

Whilst we waited for the bus to be readied for service we saw National Express West Midlands 6785 on a #126 to Birmingham via Dudley.

NX West Midlands 6785 in Wolverhampton bus station

Once the driver was ready we boarded National Express West Midlands 5402 and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 5402.

Inside NX West Midlands 5402

The bus set off out of the bus station and onto Pipers Row. We turned left into Tower street and right into Market Street before turning right again into Queen Street and back onto Pipers Row. We went past the Slade Rooms where we saw Crosslands coach NNZ 9019, tour bus of the LA Guns. We then joined the Northbound ring road for a few yards. We double back on ourselves before turning left into Wednesfield Way and going under the railway line. We carried on along a dual carriageway and we passed New Testement Church of God minibus V372 NGD & KY59 KXH. After about a 1000 yard we turned left onto Wolverhampton Road. We went past New Cross Hospital and forwards onto Rookery Street. Near to the Guru Nanak temple and Sainsbury's we veered left onto Wednesfield High Street and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 5402 as it carried on towards Ashmore Park.

NX West Midlands 5402 in Wednesfield

We crossed the road and we sat on the bench by the bus stop opposite. Matthew then had a Crunchie and small bottle or barr cola whilst we waited for the next bus. with the #59 running every 8 minutes we knew we wouldn't have to wait too long. Sure enough within a few minutes another bus appeared and it was another Dennis Trident! As it got closer we saw that it was required National Express West Midlands 4133 on a #59 to Wolverhampton.

NX West Midlands 4133 in Wednesfield

We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver for the final time today before we went upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4133.

Inside NX West Midlands 4133

We ran out of the High Street and forwards onto Rookery Street. We ran forwards onto Wolverhampton Road past New Cross hospital. We headed West and we turned right onto the A4124. We ran back into town along the dual carriageway and we crossed under the railway line. We crossed the ring road and we ran along the contraflow lane adjacent to the ring road that took us straight to the entrance of the bus station. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Mum had called to say she had moved the car onto Queen Street. Outside the bus station we saw Fastline Travel VDL coach YD14 GCK stopped on Pipers Row.

Fastline Travel YD14 GCK in Wolverhampton bus station

We spotted the car and we headed up towards it...Uncle Dave managed to walk into a post on the edge of the pavement and bang up his knee and jar his back! We got back to the car and mum was waiting with Greggs sausage rolls and a bottle of Irn Bru for Matthew. We set off along Queen Street and onto Pipers Row. We got onto the anti-clockwise ring road and we ran North to the A449. As we turned onto the A449 we saw Marshalls of Sutton coaches PM17 JAM & PM16 JAM. We then travelled North for around 5 miles up to the A5 where we turned right. As we ran East to the motorway we saw Travelmaster M400 STR. We joined the Northbound M6 and we ran up to junction 15. As we travelled North we passed an unidentified white VDL coach and Solus Travel W50 LUS. We got onto the Northbound A500 and we ran up to Sideway. At the A50 we went East to Longton where we came off and went to the Tesco petrol station. We topped up with diesel and then we crossed over the A50 to see what was parked up at Z Carz this evening. On the first row we saw Z Carz Ford minibus YS09 LWV.

Z Carz YS09 LWV in Longton

Also in the first row was Z Carz Volkswagen minibus OV05 WSW.

Z Carz OV05 WSW in Longton

Next to the Volkswagen was Z Carz Ford minibus MJ03 DPU.

Z Carz MJ03 DPU in Longton

Closest bus in the front row was Z Carz Ford minibus HK57 LGW.

Z Carz HK57 LGW in Longton

On the second row was Z Carz Mercedes minibus LV52 TZY.

Z Carz LV52 TZY in Longton

We turned into Willow row to see what was parked up in the compound. In the yard we saw Z Carz Ford minibus LG09 JVX.

Z Carz LG09 JVX in Longton

We turned around and we headed back onto the A50. We went Westwards. At Heron Cross we came off the A50 before going onto Blurton Road. We ran through Blurton and right onto Church Road before we turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive. We got home around 19:00. For a late tea Matthew had bangers and mash with carrots followed by jam filled shortbread biscuit. Matthew then chilled out on his computer until 00:00... Mark