Wednesday 30 August 2017

Trip to Fenton / Newcastle 30-08-2017
















BusFromToServiceOperator



63097Fenton, Victoria PlaceNewcastle BS11First Potteries
63175Newcastle BSFenton, Christchurch Street11First Potteries
67155Fenton, Fenton ManorFenton, Adj Railway Bridge23AFirst Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going out on the bus later as well as visiting uncle Dave. 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 First Potteries 63098 on a #11 to Hanley. At 09:00 we set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre, where we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX parked up.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
In the morning Matthew went out on the bus. We set off on foot onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. We waited at the bus stop for a First Bus bus to Newcastle. Whilst we waited we saw D&G Bus 111 on 'The Orange ONE' to Meir.


D&G 111 in Fenton
We also saw D&G Bus 114 on 'The Orange ONE' to Newcastle.


D&G 114 in Fenton
A few minutes later we saw Paul's of Stoke coach Y13 POS heading towards Stoke.


Paul's of Stoke Y13 POS in Fenton
A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was First Potteries 63097 on a #11 to Newcastle. We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street. After a brief stop in Stoke we continued along church Street and forwards onto Hartshill Road. We ran up the hill and into Hartshill. We ran forwards onto George Street and we ran down the hill into Newcastle. We turned left at the roundabout onto Barracks Road and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We saw D&G Bus 119 on a 'Nines' service to Biddulph.


D&G 119 in Newcastle bus station
We set off on foot along Castle Walk and we stopped at Greggs to pick up a sausage roll. Afterwards we continued up towards ironmarket and we stopped at the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a drink of Coke. Once we had finished in the pub we walked along Ironmarket and we turned left into High Street. We stopped at Wrights Pies and we picked up a Manchester Tart. We set down outside the Vue and Matthew had his dinner. He had a sausage roll followed by a Manchester Tart. We then walked along Hassell Street and back to the bus station. We the saw First Potteries 63177 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63177 in Fenton
On layover on Stubbs Street was Crewe allocated D&G Bus Streetlite 153.


D&G 153 in Newcastle bus station
Eventually the bus back to Fenton appeared and it was required First Potteries 63175 on a #11 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down towards then back of the bus. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran up to the Jubilee roundabout. We ran onto the A53 and around the one-way system onto the A52. We ran up George Street into Hartshill and we ran down the hill into Stoke town centre. After a brief stop we continued along Church Street out of Stoke and over the A500. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over City Road and we walked across the car park to the day centre. In the afternoon Matthew went on the computer. When it was time to go back to the residential unit we set off on foot onto Christchurch Street. We turned right onto Temple Street an back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to chill out and use his computer. We saw D&G Bus 112 on 'The Orange ONE' to Meir.


D&G 112 in Fenton
A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 42553 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 42553 in Fenton
We also saw First Potteries 67647 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67647 in Fenton
As Matthew didn't go to uncle Dave's last week we arranged for him to go this week instead. When it was time to go we set off on foot onto Temple Street and we walked down to Smithpool Road. We walked down City Road and we crossed over the road to the bus stop. We waited for the next #23A so we could go to uncle Dave's. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67155 on a #23A to Newstead. We got on the bus and we booked to Mount Pleasant. The bus set off up City Road and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. When we got to the railway bridge over the line to Derby we got up and got off the bus. We then continued along Smithpool Road before turning right onto the path the leads onto Willowdale Avenue. We went onto Whieldon Road and we went to uncle Dave's house. For tea Matthew had chicken potatoes and carrots. later on he had a drink of Tango orange and a few custard creams. Matthew chill out in uncle Dave's house using his computer and watching television. A couple of hours later staff came to escort Matthew back home. We set off onto Whieldon Road and we turned onto Willowdale Avenue. We crossed the spare ground and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went back to the room and went on his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Tuesday 29 August 2017

Trip to Fenton / Shrewsbury 29-08-2017
















BusFromToServiceOperator



LV59 DZCFentonShrewsburyCharterZ Carz
LV59 DZCShrewsburyFentonCharterZ Carz


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 silver minibus SF14 CUK.


SF14 CUK in Fenton
We also saw D&G Bus 112 on 'The Orange ONE' to Newcastle.


D&G 112 in Fenton
Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street. we saw First Potteries 41495 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 41495 in Fenton
At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
In the morning Matthew went to Shrewsbury on Z Carz LV59 DZC. We set off onto Glebedale Road and then we turned left onto City Road. We ran down the hill under the railway line and then we got onto the southbound A500. We did the A500 right to the end and then we turned left onto the A519. We ran for a couple of hundred yards and then we turned right onto the A5182 by the Eddie Stobart depot. We ran Westwards along the the road until the end until we joined the Southbound A53. we ran through Whitmore andbaldwin's gate and then we joined the A51 by The swan with Two Necks. A couple of hundred yards later we turned left onto the A53 again. We ran through Loggerhead and then we went around the North side of Market Drayton. We crossed the A41 at Tern Hill. We were now out in open countryside and we ran along the fast newer sections of the road to Shawbury. Once we passed through the village we ran to the edge of Shrewsbury and then we stopped at a pub called the Two Henrys. For dinner Matthew had gammon, egg & chips washed down with a glass of Coke. For afters Matthew had Bakewell tart & cream. Afterwards Matthew went to the toilet. After we had finished we returned back to the day centre in Z Carz LV59 DZC. We set off onto the A53 and we returned Northwards via Shawbury, Tern Hill and Loggerheads before we crossed the A51 by the Swan with Two Necks. We continued North through Baldwin's Gate and Whitmore. We turned right onto the A5182 and then we ran north up the A500. Northbound A500. We continued North to Stoke and we came off the A500 onto City Road. We ran up under the railway line and up the hill. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street. Once back at the residential unit. Once back at the unit Matthew chilled out in his room and used his computer. For tea Matthew had shepherds pie followed by treacle tart and custard. Later on Matthew went out to Newcastle. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road and we ran down the hill towards Stoke. We ran over the A500 and we went around the one-way system. We ran up Hartshill Road and we continued down George Street into Newcastle. We ran along the A527 and we went North up the A34. Near to the KFC we turned left onto Robertson Avenue. We crossed forwards onto Douglas Road and forwards to the disco. We spent some time at the disco. Matthew went to the toilet and a glass of coke. After doing some dancing we returned to Fenton. We ran back to the A34 and we went South into Newcastle. We turned left onto the A527 and we ran up to the Jubilee Roundabout. We ran around the one-way system onto George Street and we ran into Hartshill. We ran down Hartshill Road into Stoke and we went around the one-way system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500 and onto City Road before going under the railway line. We climbed the hill and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. When Matthew got back he went up to his room. He used his computer and watched music videos on the Television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Monday 28 August 2017

Trip to Fenton / Longton Park 28-08-2017
















BusFromToServiceOperator



DY08 FFXFentonTittesworth ReservoirCharterShelton Care Group
DY08 FFXTittesworth ReservoirFentonCharterShelton Care Group
DY08 FFXFentonLongton ParkCharterShelton Care Group
DY08 FFXLongton ParkFentonCharterShelton 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 63099 on a #11 to Newcastle. Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street. We continued to the day centre and we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
In the morning Matthew visited Tittesworth Reservoir on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned sharp left onto Victoria Road and down the hill to Joiners Square. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A52 and we ran up to Bucknall. At the lights we continued onto the A5009 and we ran through Abbey Hulton and Milton to Stockon Brook. We joined the Northbound A53 and we ran through Endon and and Longsdon. We continued through Ladderedge and up the hill into Leek town Centre. We passed through the town and continued along the A53 to Blackshaw Moor. We turned left and we ran down the track to the reservoir. Matthew visited the cafe and had a cake and a glass of Coke. Once we had finished in the cafe we returned to Fenton in Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We ran up the track to the A53 and we turned right onto the A53 and we headed South. We ran through Leek town centre and out the other side along the A53. We travelled South up the hill through Ladderedge and down into Longsdon and Endon. We continued as far as Stockton Brook and we turned left onto the A5009. We ran through Milton and Abbey Hulton and into Bucknall. We continued onto the A52 and at the roundabout we turned left onto Victoria Road. We ran up to the top of the hill to the top and we turned sharp right onto City Road. We turned left onto Glebedale Road and back to the day centre. For dinner Matthew had a ham sandwich followed by Bakewell Tart. In the afternoon Matthew went to Longton Park on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we continued onto Station Bridge Road. We continued around the corner onto Heron Street and through the traffic lights onto Blurton Road. We crossed over the A50 and we ran through Blurton. We turned left onto Drubbery Lane and we ran to the end. We crossed over the A5035 onto Queens Park Avenue where we parked up. Matthew went into the park and used the play equipment. When we had finished we returned to Fenton on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We ran along Queens Park Avenue and forwards onto Cocknage Road. We ran through to the A520 and we crossed over onto the B5029. We turned left onto Whitestone Road and then right onto Lysander Road. We ran down towards the A50 and we got onto the Westbound carriageway. We ran through Meir Tunnel and Longton and we came off the A50 at Heron Cross. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we ran through Heron Cross lights onto Heron Street. We followed the road around onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Masterson Street and right onto Watkin Street. We ran onto Temple street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs ti his room to chill out and use his computer. We saw City Cabs YX61 VVO going towards Stoke.


City Cabs YX61 VVO in Fenton
We also saw First Potteries 42553 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 42553 in Fenton
Later on we saw Afford Rent-A-Car YR63 YWV going towards Hanley.


Afford Rent-A-Car YR63 YWV in Fenton
We then came to pick Matthew up to go out for tea. We asked Matthew where he wanted to go and from the list we gave him places to go he chose Captain Kooks. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We crossed City Road onto Manor Street and we ran to the end where we turned left onto Victoria Road. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we turned right onto the A52. We ran up to Bucknall and we turned left onto the A5272. We went up the hill and we followed the road to the right and through Northwood. At Townsend we turned right following the A5272 through Sneyd Green and into Smallthorne. We turned left at the roundabout and we ran down Sandbach Road and we saw Stanton's of Stoke new white coach 579 UXR. When we got to Captain Kooks only to find it was shut! We decided to go to Venus Fish bar instead so we ran forwards to the A53 and we turned right. We went to Cobridge Lights and we turned left. We ran down Waterloo Road to the ring road and we ran clockwise around Hanley to Lichfield Street and we turned into the car park. As we parked up we saw Silverdale coach PK13 GCZ. In Venus Fish bar Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Cherry Coke. When we had finished we got back into the car and we ran down Lichfield Street and we saw ABC Supreme HN16 XNU. We turned right onto the A52 and we ran towards Stoke. By the railway station we veered left along the A52 and we ran parallel to the railway line. We turned left onto City Road and right onto Smithpool Road we saw City Cabs YX61 VVO. We turned left onto Temple Street and we went to his room and chilled out. We wrote some of his Blog and then we said goodbye until the weekend. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Saturday 26 August 2017

Trip to Fenton / Hanley 26-08-2017
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67156Fenton, adj Travers CourtHanley, stop J1‎23First Potteries
67156Hanley BSFenton, Smithpool Road / Raglan Walk23AFirst Potteries


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. Whilst waiting to go to the day service we saw First Potteries 67154 on a #23 to Hanley. In the morning Matthew chilled out in his room whilst waiting to out later. When it was time to go we set off onto temple Street and walked through onto City Road. On the way to the bus stop we saw D&G Bus 112 on 'The Orange ONE' to Meir.


D&G 112 in Fenton
A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67156 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67156 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 City Road and we joined the A52 to go under the railway line and over the A500. We continued onto Church Street and into the centre of Stoke. After a brief stop we continued around the one-way system onto Elenora Steet and right onto Copeland street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. We went past the railway station ans we turned right onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street before we turned right onto John Street where we got up and got off the bus. Once we got off the bus we walked down John Street and we saw D&G Bus 119 on a 'Nines' service to Biddulph.


D&G 119 in Hanley
We turned right onto Bethesda Street and we saw First Potteries 41495 on a #8A to Endon.


First Potteries 41495 in Hanley
We turned left onto Broad Street and we walked down towards the ring road. We crossed over the ring road and we visited The Unconventional Menagerie. After going to see the animals we crossed over Broad Street and over the ring road and went to the delicious cafe for dinner. For dinner Matthew had a sausage and bacon sandwich washed down with a can of Coke. Once we had eaten dinner we crossed over Broad Street and we visited the museum. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a look around the exhibits. We went to see the natural history section and then went to see the Spitfire. After we had finished in the museum we went out onto Bethesda Street and we saw First Potteries 67640 on a #7 to Kidsgrove.


First Potteries 67640 in Hanley
We walked up John Street to the bus station and we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 67156 on a #23A to Newstead.


First Potteries 67156 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We crossed over the ring road and we ran down onto Regent Road and forwards onto Cleveland Road. We ran down though Shelton along College Road and we ran down to the railway station. Due to a diversion we turned right onto Station Road and left onto Stoke Road. After crossing the A500 we got onto the one-way system and we turned left onto Copeland Street. We continued forwards onto Glebe Street and we followed the road around onto Church Street. We crossed the A500 and we ran under the railway line. After climbing up the hill we turned right onto Smithpool Road where we got up and got off the bus. We then set off onto foot back to the residential unit. We turned right onto Temple Street and back into the residential unit. Once we got back Matthew went upstairs to chill out in his room and use his computer. We saw First Potteries 32634 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 32634 in Fenton
We also saw First Potteries 32632 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 32632 in Fenton
For tea Matthew had pasta and tuna followed by a a slice of toffee cheesecake. Later on Matthew went out for a drive and to do a small shop. We set off onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto baker Street. We turned left onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned sharp left onto Victoria Road and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A52 and we headed to Bucknall. We turned left onto the A5272 and we veered right witht the road and through Northwood. We followed the A5272 to thr right and through Sneyd Green and up to Smallthorne. At the roundabout we turned right onto Ford Green Road and we ran down the hill. We ran upp the other side into Norton and we continued through Brown Edge. We got to the A53 and we turned right into Endon where we stopped at the Co-operative Food store. We went in the shop and Matthew bought a can of Coke. We then returned to the car and we continued South down the A53. We ran south through Stockton Brook and Sneyd Green and into Cobridge. We crossed over the traffic lights and ran through Festival park up to Etruria. We turned left onto the southbound A500 and we ran South to Stoke. We came off the A500 onto the A52 and we ran under the railway line onto City Road. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to chill out. He watched television and used his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Friday 25 August 2017

Trip to Fenton / Joiners Square 25-08-2017
















BusFromToServiceOperator



NH57 HROFentonJoiners SquareCharterABC Supreme
DY08 FFXJoiners SquareFentonCharterShelton Care Group


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. Whilst waiting to go to the day service we saw First Potteries 41494 on a #11 to Hanley. Around 09:00 we set off on foot to the day centre. A few minutes later we saw Stanton's of Stoke GSU 344 going towards Stoke. We walked onto Temple Street and onto Christchurch Street. In the morning Matthew made some cup cakes with butter icing. For dinner Matthew had KFC. We saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
We went onto Glebedale road and we turned right onto City Road. We walked up top the roundabout and we turned right into KFC. Matthew had chicken popcorn and fries washed with a cup of Coke. Matthew went to the pub in a ABC Supreme minibus NH57 HRO. We set off onto the roundabout and straight onto Victoria Road. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we crossed over the roundabout onto Lichfield street and to our destination. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a glass of Coke. highlights of the bus sightings included First Potteries 63098 on a #6 to Weston Coyney and Stanton's of Stoke EGZ 2534. Matthew then listened to Steps on the jukebox .When it was time to go we walked down Lichfield Street and across joiners Square onto Victoria Road Berry Hill Road and we got on board Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We went up Victoria Road and at the top we turned sharp right onto City Road. We turned left into Glebedale Road and we stopped briefly at the day centre When it was time to go back back to the residential unit Matthew set off on foot onto Christchurch Street and left onto Temple Street. Matthew had toast and a drink of dandelion & burdock. waiting at the residential unit. Matthew went to the room and we saw Meadows minibus DX65 DMZ going towards Stoke.


Meadows DX65 DMZ in Fenton
Also going towards Stoke was Intercity minibus SF11 GNX.


Intercity SF11 GNX in Fenton
we also saw First Potteries 63097 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 63097 in Fenton
For tea Matthew had shepherds pie and Chips followed by cheesecake. Later on Matthew went to the Funfair on the car park off City Road. We set off onto Temple Street and we crossed over Christchurch Street and through the alleyway onto the car park. Matthew went on a few rides. He went on the Miami Trip style ride and the Waltzers. He also visited the burger van and had a burger. Later on Matthew walked back to the residential unit and chilled out in his room and use his computer. Matthew then watched some television and used his computer. Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Wednesday 23 August 2017

Trip to Fenton / Crewe 23-08-2017
















BusFromToServiceOperator



NX13 XDHFentonStone AldiCharterShelton Care Group
NX13 XDHStone AldiFentonCharterShelton Care Group
HK57 LFYFentonCreweCharterZ Carz
HK57 LFYCreweFentonCharterZ Carz


Today Matthew was in residential and he was going to his day service. Matthew was also going to Crewe later. 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 67647 on a #11 to Newcastle. 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 DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
In the morning Matthew went to Aldi in Stone on Shelton Care Group NX13 XDH. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we ran forwards onto Station Bridge Road. We continued onto Heron Street and we went through the lights at Heron Cross onto Blurton Road. At the roundabout we joined the Westbound A50 and we ran down to Sideway. We joined the Southbound A500 and we ran down to Hanford where we joined the Southbound A34. We ran through Hanford and Trentham and we continued South through Tittensor and Darlaston and to the West of Stone town centre. We crossed the Eccleshall Road and we turned right into the supermarket. Matthew did his shopping and brought his weeks food shopping. Once we had finished we returned to the day centre in Shelton Care Group NX13 XDH. We set off onto the Northbound A34 and we ran along the Western edge of Stone up to Darlaston. We continued North through Tittensor and Trentham and up into Hanford. We ran under the A500 into Trent Vale and we turned right onto London Road. We ran into the West End and we turned left onto Penkhull New Road. We ran up the hill into Penkhull and at the roundabout we turned right onto St Thomas Place. We turned left onto Princes Road and we stopped at the soft play area. We ran tot the end of Princes Street and we joined the A52. We ran down into Stoke and we went around the one way system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500 and under the railway line and and we ran up City Road. We turned right onto Glebedale Road and back to the day centre. For dinner Matthew had a ham sandwich followed by a Manchester Tart. In the the afternoon Matthew watched a DVD. when it was tinme to go back to the residential unit Matthew went on foot onto Christchurch Street and left onto Temple Street. Matthew went upstairs and chilled out in his room on his computer. We saw D&G Bus 113 on 'The Orange ONE' service to Meir.


D&G 113 in Fenton
We also saw Jayjay's Travel Ford minibus PO58 XFX heading towards Stoke.


Jayjay's Travel PO58 XFX in Fenton
Due to a few issues, Matthew ended up not going to visit uncle Dave today. Matthew went out for tea on Z Carz minibus HK57 LFY. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road and we ran down the hill onto the A52. We went under the railway line and then we turned right onto the Northbound A500. We ran north under the A34 and M6 and we wheeled around to the West. South of Crewe we turned right onto David Whitby Way. We turned left onto the A532 and we ran towards the railway station, stopping at the new Farmhouse Inns pub. Matthwe went to the toilet and then had a glass of Coke. For tea Matthew had a burger and fries followed by Giant Chocolate Éclair. When Matthew had finished eating we returned to Fenton on Z Carz HK57 LFY. We set off onto the A532 and we ran Eastwards along to the next roundabout. We ran Southwards down David Whitby Way and we turned left onto the Eastbound A500. We ran under the M6 and A34 and we continued Southwards into Stoke. We left the A500 onto the A52 and we ran under the railway line and onto City Road. we turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went back up to his room to chill out and use his computer. Matthew then watched some television and used his computer. Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Tuesday 22 August 2017

Trip to Fenton / Hanley 22-08-2017
















BusFromToServiceOperator



NX13 XDHFentonYMCA HanleyCharterShelton Care Group
NX13 XDHYMCA HanleyFentonCharterShelton Care Group
PO61 JXDFentonBirches HeadCharterAutocabs
DS57 OMKBirches HeadFentonCharterIntercity


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Matthew was also going out to the disco later. 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 67631 on a #11 to Hanley. 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 DY08 FFX.


Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton
In the morning Matthew went on the computer. For dinner Matthew had a ham sandwich followed by Bakewell Tart. In the afternoon Matthew went to the YMCA on Shelton Care Group NX13 XDH. we set off onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. At the roundabout we went sharp left onto Victoria Road and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. At the roundabout we went straight across onto Lichfield Street. We turned left onto Regent Road and left again onto Harding Road and to our destination. In the YMCA Matthew played football with his peers. After Matthew had finished we returned to Fenton on Shelton Care Group NX13 XDH. We set off onto Harding Road and we turned left onto the Parkway. We continued onto Ridgeway Road and then we turned left onto Boughey Road. We joined the A52 and we ran close to the railway station and towards Stoke. We tuned left onto City Road and right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room and chill out on his computer. We saw First Potteries 63173 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63173 in Fenton
We also saw Lucky Seven PK08 GFO running towards Stoke.


Lucky Seven PK08 GFO in Fenton
Later we saw Jayjay's Travel PO58 XFX going towards Stoke.


Jayjay's Travel PO58 XFX in Fenton
For tea Matthew had pasta and sauce followed by a slice of cake. After tea Matthew went out to the disco in a Autocabs minibus PO61 JXD. We set off down City Road and we turned right onto Elsing Street and right again onto Hallam Street. We turned left onto Manor Street and at the end we turned left onto Victoria Road. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we turned right onto the A52. At Buckbnall we ran forwards onto the A5009 and through Abbey Hulton. We turned left onto Birches Head Road and we stopped at the disco. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a drink of Coke. Matthew then spent a couple of hours dancing with friends. When it was time to return to Fenton we got in a Intercity minibus DS57 OMK. We set off along Birches Head Road and we turned right onto the A5009. We ran through Abbey Hulton and into Bucknall. At the lights we ran forwards onto the A52. At Joiners Square we turned left onto Victoria Road and we ran up the hill into Fenton. We turned right onto Manor Street. At the end we turned right onto City Road and back to the residential unit. Matthew went back up to his room to chill out and use his computer. He then had a slice of cheesecake. Matthew then watched some television and used his computer. Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Saturday 19 August 2017

Trip to Bilston / West Bromwich 19-08-2017



























































BusFromToServiceOperator



30886Bilston InterchangeWest Bromwich BS43Rotala Diamond
30302West Bromwich BSWednesbury BS40Rotala Diamond
30211Wednesbury BSWest Bromwich BS40Rotala Diamond
21015West Bromwich BSTipton, Glebefields Road42Rotala Diamond
30887Tipton, Glebefields RoadBilston Interchange43Rotala Diamond
4314Bilston, War Memorial (Stop BB)Wednesbury BS79NX West Midlands
4310Wednesbury BSBilston, War Memorial (Stop BA)79NX West Midlands


Today we decided to re-visit Bilston. We had checked the weather for today and it was for mainly cloudy weather with some showers. The forecast seemed better for the midlands so we decided to try and steer Matthew towards that direction. We gave Matthew a list of places from the Midlands and North West and from the list he chose Bilston. Matthew got up around 10:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Around 11:30 we set off onto the A5035 and we turned right onto Stanley Matthews Way. We ran past the BET365 stadium where preparation were taking place ready for Stoke City's first home game of the season later that evening. We joined the Westbound A50 and at Sideway we turned right onto the Northbound A500. As we joined the A500 we passed Silverdale coach YN17 OHR going onto the A50. We ran North to Shelton and we came off the A500 onto Shelton New Road. We headed up to Etruria to fill up with LPG and as we filled up we saw Paul's of Stoke coach W879 RKS on the A53 above us. Once we had filled up with gas we ran onto the A53 and we then joined the Southbound A500. As we ran between Stoke and Sideway we were passed by Bakers Coaches 238. We joined the M6 at hanchurch and we headed Southwards towards the west Midlands. As we ran Southwards we saw Cars AV12 DUJ, Edwards BU55 AFC, Elcock Reisen YN12 CSX, taxi minibus MT09 RVM, silver minibus TK07 EDB & Lucky Seven BV58 FZM. Wer came off the M6 at junction 10 and we ran Westwards along the A463 for around 4 miles. Just South of Bilston we turned right onto the A41 and we ran up towards the town centre. We turned left onto Church Street and all the spaces there were taken. As we turned right into Walsall Street we saw somebody getting into there cars so we waited for them to leave and we parked in their space. Once we had parked up we walked back down Walsall Street onto Church Street and we walked through the small green space that leads to the bus interchange. Before we got into interchange we saw National Express West Midlands 4556 on a #82 service.


NX West Midlands 4556 in Bilston interchange
We walked into the building and Matthew went to the toilet whilst mum went to the cafe to order the food. When we got to the table we joined mum and uncle Dave and we watched the buses go past whilst we waited for the food to be cooked. Matthew had a can of Coke and then the food arrived. Matthew had a breakfast as well as some of mum sausage and bean toastie! When we had finished eating we said goodbye to mum and we brought a couple of small bottle of pop from the cafe to put in the tip bag. We had a walk around the interchange to see what we could catch first. On the Eastern side of the bus station we saw National Express West Midlands 4579 on a #82 to Dudley.


NX West Midlands 4579 in Bilston interchange
We also saw Banga Travel Solo V263 DRC run around the interchange heading for it's stand working a #530 to Rocket Pool.


Banga Travel V263 DRC in Bilston interchange
We also saw National Express West Midlands 4316 on a #82 to Wolverhampton.


NX West Midlands 4316 in Bilston interchange
We were considering doing the Wolverhampton bus but there was quite a sizeable queue to get on it. Matthew lost interest and walked down to the Southern end of the bus station where we saw required Rotala Diamond 30886 on a #43 to West Bromwich.


Rotala Diamond 30886 in Bilston interchange
In the past we had promised Matthew that we would go to West Bromwich on a day that the football team weren't playing at home, so we decided to do it today. We got on the bus and we booked nBus day tickets at £4.30 each before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the interchange and we ran onto Hall Street. We joined the Southbound A41 and we crossed over the A463 heading towards Loxdale. At the junction we turned right onto Loxdale Street. Due to a road closure we continued forwards onto Highfields Road along the route of the #82 bus. We turned left onto Brierley lane and we turned right onto Batmans Hill Road, rejoined the proper #43 route. At the end we turned left onto the A4037 and then right onto Upper Church Lane. We turned left onto St Mark's Road and right onto Watts Road. We ran through the estate along Highfield Road and we turned right onto Cupfields Avenue. At the roundabout we turned right onto Powis Avenue and then left onto Bourne Avenue. We ran onto Toll End Road and we continued Southwards into Great Bridge. After crossing over the A461 we turned right onto Whitehall Road. We continued forwards onto Greets Green Road and Forwards again through various different roads and lanes until passed the National Express West Midlands depot on Oak Lane. We ran int the centre of West Bromwich before we turned left onto St Michael Street and into the bus station. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Rotala Diamond 30886.


Inside Rotala Diamond 30886
We got of the bus and we had a walk around the bus station. Matthew went to the toilet and then we had a look around. We saw required Rotala Diamond 30302 which had just arrived on a #40 from Wednesbury.


Rotala Diamond 30302 in West Bromwich bus station
We continued around the bus station and we saw required National Express West Midlands 806 on a #42 to Tipton.


NX West Midlands 806 in West Bromwich bus station
We walked along the South-Western side of the bus station where we could see buses on layover. In the row was required Central Buses 303.


Central Buses 303 in West Bromwich bus station
We walked onto St Michaels Street and we watch buses arriving and departing the bus station. We saw required Rotala Diamond 30211 on a #40 from Wednesbury.


Rotala Diamond 30211 in West Bromwich bus station
We decided to go into the bus station and catch another bus quickly. We saw required Rotala Diamond 30302 on a #40 to Wednesbury.


Rotala Diamond 30302 in West Bromwich bus station
We decided to do this bus so we got on and we flashed the nBus ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto St Michael Street passing dud National Express West Midlands 4264 on a #5 to West Bromwich. We headed into the centre of town and we continued onto News Street and forwards onto the Linkway. We crossed lover the A41 and we ran Northwards up All Saints Way past the hospital. We ran forwards onto Walsall Road and right onto Lyndhurst Road. We turned left onto Holyedge Road and we ran Northwards. We continued onto Bustleholme Lane and forwards onto Jervoise Lane. We cross Walsall Road and forwards onto Hall Green Road. We turned right onto Crankhall Lane and we veered right onto Manor Road. We turned left onto Freeman Road and we re-joined Crankhall Lane. We turned left onto Friar Street and forwards onto Elwell Street. We turned left onto Alma Street and we turned right onto Oxford Street. We turned right onto Hydes Road and we joined the Westbound A461. We turned left onto Dudley Street and we entered Wednesbury bus station from the southern end. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Rotala Diamond 30302.


Inside Rotala Diamond 30302
Once off the bus we had a quick wander around the bus station. The tardis toilet was out of order but we found a disabled toilet in the main building in the bus station. Once Matthew had used the facilities we walked around the bus station to take a few bus pictures. We saw iGo Plaxton Primo KX08 OLC on a #22 to Wolverhampton.


iGo KX08 OLC in Wednesbury bus station
A few minutes later we saw Rotala Diamond 30211 on a #40 to West Bromwich.


Rotala Diamond 30211 in Wednesbury bus station
We decided to do this bus so we got on and we flashed the nBus ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto Holyhead Road. We turned left onto Lower High Street and we turned right onto Market Place. We turned right onto Ridding Lane and left onto Corporation Street. At the end of the road we turned right onto Hydes Road. We turned left onto Paul Street and we continued forwards onto Oxford Street. We turned left onto Alma Street and right onto Elwell Street. At the end of Friar Street we turned right onto Crankhall Lane. We ran past St Francis church along Freeman Road and we turned right onto Manor Road. We re-joined Crankhall Lane and we crossed over the canal. At the roundabout we turned left onto Hall Green Road. We crossed over the A4031 onto Jervois Lane and we continued onto Bustleholme Lane. We continued onto Hollyhedge Road and we ran forwards onto the A4031. We ran along All Saints Way past the hospital and we crossed over the A41. We ran along the Linkway and forwards onto New Street. We ran forwards onto St Michaels Street and we turned left onto West Bromwich Ringway before entering the bus station. The bus pulled up and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw National Express West Midlands 754 on a #44 service to Harvils Hawthorne.


NX West Midlands 754 in West Bromwich bus station
As we got off the bus we spotted a former Hansonbus vehicle about to work to Tipton. It was Rotala Diamond 21015 on a #42 service. We decided to do this part way to Tipton along the route of the #43 and then to do the next #43 forwards to Bilston. We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto the West Bromwich Ringway and we ran forwards onto Izon Road. We continued North Westwards along Oxford Road and we continued onto Oak Lane and past the National Express Midlands West Bromwich garage. We ran forwards onto Wood Lane and onto Greet Green Road. We ran forwards onto the B4166 and we saw County Cars Y407 BOA on the right hand side as we approached Greta Bridge town centre. We turned left onto Great Bridge Street and we crossed over the A461. We ran along New Road and forwards onto Toll End Road. We turned left onto Bourne Avenue and then right onto Powis Avenue. At the roundabout we went left onto Cupfields Avenue. We turned left onto Highfield Road and right onto Watts Road. We turned left onto St Marks Road and when we got to the shops we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Rotala Diamond 21015 as it carried on towards the centre of Tipton.


Rotala Diamond 21015 in Tipton
Once the bus had disappeared into the distance we crossed the road to the Costcutters shop opposite. Matthew had a can of Coke as well as a couple of chocolate bars. Once we had paid we crossed back over the road to the bus stop opposite to wait for the bus to Bilston. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching and it was a blue Rotala Diamond Dart. As it got closer we saw it was required Rotala Diamond 30887 on a #43 to Bilston.


Rotala Diamond 30887 in Tipton
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 along St Marks Road and at the end we turned right onto Upper Church Lane. We turned right onto the A4037 and then we turned left onto Richards Road. At the roundabout we continued along Richards Road and at the end we turned right onto Batmans Hill Road. At the end we turned left onto Brierley Lane onto the diversionary route. At the roundabout we turned right onto Daisy Street and we ran Northwards onto Ash Street. We ran forwards onto Highfields Road and we re-joined the original bus route. We ran forwards onto Salops Street and forwards again onto Loxdale Street. At the end we turned left onto the A41 and we ran Northwards towards Bilston. We crossed the A463 and we saw National Express West Midlands 4141 on a #79 to West Bromwich. We turned left onto Hall Street and we entered the Interchange. We let the bus empty out and then Matthew took a picture inside Rotala Diamond 30887.


Inside Rotala Diamond 30887
Once we got off the bus we had a look around and we saw Rotala Diamond 21003 on a #57. This was followed by dud National Express West Midlands 4163 on a #82 to Wolverhampton. We also saw National Express West Midlands 4556 on a #82 to Dudley. We decided to do a short out and back run before returning to the car. We thought that the best bet of getting one of the older doulble decker we to walk down to the A41 and catch a #79 Southwards to Wednesbury. We set off along Hall Street and we crossed over a car park onto the A41. After we crossed the road we waited nearby the stop and waited for the the next Southbound #79. Whilst we waited we saw required Banga Travel Solo V262 DRC on a #530 to Wolverhampton.


Banga Travel V262 DRC in Bilston
A few minutes later we saw a National Express West Midlands ALX400 double decker approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was required National Express West Midlands 4314 on a #79 to West Bromwich.


NX West Midlands 4314 in Bilston
We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus ticket to 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 4314 before we sat down.


Inside NX West Midlands 4314
We set off down the A41 and we crossed over the A463 Black Country Route. We travelled around a 1/2 mile to Moxley and then we crossed over the Walsall Canal and continued along the A4038. We ran a further 1/2 mile into Darlaston and we turned left onto St Lawrence Way past the Asda store. We did a u-turn at the roundabout and we went back South towards the A4038 stopping at the bus terminal outside the Asda store. We turned right onto the A4038 and then left onto Dangerfield Lane. As we approached the A41 we turned left onto Woden Road West. We ran East to the end of the road and then we turned right onto the Southbound A462. We continued Southwards to the A461 and then we turned right. At the next roundabout we went left and then we pulled into Wednesbury bus station. Once we got off the bus Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 4314.


NX West Midlands 4314 in Wednesbury bus station
Once we got off the bus we walked around the other side of the bus station to the stand from which the Northbound #79 bus departs. Accordning to the display board there was a 20 minute gap in the service. We were taken by surprise when required National Express West Midlands 4310 appeared on a #79 service to Wolverhmpton.


NX West Midlands 4310 in Wednesbury bus station
We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver for the final time today before going upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty, so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4310.


Inside NX West Midlands 4310
The bus set off out of the bus station onto Holyhead Road and we turned right onto the the A461. We turned left onto Trouse Lane and we headed North. We continued up the A462 for around 1/4 of a mile and then we turned left onto Woden Road West. We turned right onto Dangerfield Lane and at the end we turned right onto the Eastbound A4038. We ran into Darlaston and we turned left onto St Lawrence Way. After doing a u-turn at the next roundabout we headed South and stopped at the bus terminus outside the Asda store. After a brief stopped we went south onto the A4038 and we ran Westwards over the Walsall canal onto the A41. We ran then last mile or so into Bilston and then we crossed over the A463. We got up and got off by the war memorial an Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 4310 before it carried on towards Wolverhampton.


NX West Midlands 4310 in Bilston
Once we had let the bus go we walked to where the car was via the bus station. We turned left into hall Street. We walked through the bus station and we saw Rotala Diamond Solo 20731 on a #23 to Wednesbury.


Rotala Diamond 20731 in Bilston interchange
Matthew used the toilet in the bus station and then we walked onto Church Street. We walked up an alley onto Greencroft where mum had moved the car to. We sat in the car and Matthew tucked into a Greggs sausage roll and a bottle of Irn Bru. We set off up Greencroft and at the end we turned right onto The Crescent. We turned right onto the A41 and headed Southwards. We turned left onto the A463 and we ran fast to the A454. When we reached the A454 we carried on over the flyover and a couple of mile later we were on the Northbound M6. We went North up to junction 15 and we came off onto A500 where we saw former Tourmaster coach M528 RSO. We ran North to the Sideway and then we went Eastwards along the A50 to Longton where we came off to see what was parked up at Z Carz this evening. On the spare round there was only one minibus which was Z Carz Iveco minibus GK02 NWJ.


Z Carz GK02 NWJ in Longton
We turned left into Willow Row to see what was parked p in the compound this evening. On the road we saw Z Carz Ford minibus LG09 JVX.


Z Carz LG09 JVX in Longton
In the compound was Z Carz Citroen minibus LV59 DZC.


Z Carz LV59 DZC in Longton
It appears that Z Carz may have brought the field behind the shed and are extending the depot so they don't have to park the buses on the spare ground. We turned the car around and we saw Z Carz Vauxhall minibus DG10 VMJ which was parked up on the road.


Z Carz DG10 VMJ in Longton
We returned onto the A50 and we ran fast up to Herpn Cross before going Southwards along Blurton Road through Blurton. At Blurton BP garage we saw Stanton's of Stoke GSU 344. We ran up the hill and we turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive. We got back home around 19:00. For a late tea Matthew had bangers and mash with carrots followed by a jam filled shortbread biscuit. We then chilled out at home and uploaded pictures and did some of the Blog. Matthew chilled out om the computer until bedtime around 00:00... Mark