Trip to Newcastle / Crewe 29-06-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
114	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	1	D&G
100	Newcastle BS	Crewe, Railway Station	85	D&G
110	Crewe, Crewe Arms Hotel	Newcastle BS	85	D&G
63179	Newcastle BS	Fenton, Smithpool Road	11	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. Matthew was also going out on the bus to Crewe and we were going for a train ride later on. 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. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX.

Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton

When it was time to go we went downstairs and we set off on foot towards the bus stop on City Road. Whilst we waited for the bus to Newcastle we saw Herdman Coaches OIB 3514. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was D&G Bus 44 on a #1 to Park Site. 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. The seat in front was empty so Matthew took a picture inside D&G 114.

Inside D&G 114

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. Matthew took a picture of D&G 114.

D&G 114 in Newcastle bus station

We waited for a bus to Crewe. A short while later D&G 100 appeared on a #85 to Nantwich.

D&G 100 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Crewe before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran down onto the A34. We went Northwards to the next roundabout and then we turned left onto the Southbound A53. We turned right onto Blackfriars Road and we continued up the A525. We ran through Thistleberry and past Hampton's scrap yard. At the roundabout went straight and went up the hill towards Keele. We turned left into the campus and onto University Drive. At the end we turned left and ran through the university. We came out into Keele village and after a brief stop we continued along Station Road and we re-joined the A525. We headed Westwards into Madeley we saw D&G Bus 138 on a #85 to Hanley. We ran past the pool and we turned right into Izaak Walton Way. We turned right onto Moss Lane and we re-joined the Eastbound A525. We turned left onto New Road and we headed Northwards up the the A531. We ran through Wrinehill and Betley and we ran forwards onto Main Road. We ran through Weston and we turned left onto Weston Road. At the roundabout we ran forwards onto the A532 and we ran into Crewe and we saw D&G Bus 53 on a #85 to Hanley. At the roundabout we turned left onto the A534 and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we headed along the A534. We saw Arriva NW&W 2611 on a #37 to Northwich. We continued along the road to the cafe. Matthew had a can of Coke. Afterwards he had a burger and chips. hightlights of the buses we saw whilst eating include First Potteries 67656 on a #3 to Hanley. When we had finished eating we set off back towards the bus stop. we saw Arriva NW&W 2544 on a #37 to Crewe. Once at the bus stop we waited for a D&G bus back towards Newcastle. A short while later we saw D&G Bus 110 on a #85 to Hanley.

D&G 110 in Crewe

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off along the A534 and we turned right at the roundabout onto the A523. We continued straight onto Weston Road and we turned right onto Main Road. We ran through the village of Weston and out of the other side. At the roundabout we ran forwards onto the A531. We continued Southwards through Betley and Wrinehill and we turned right onto New Road. We joined the Westbound A525 and we ran into Madeley village. We ran past the pool and we turned right onto Izaak Walton Way. We turned right onto Moss Lane and we re-joined the Eastbound A525. We ran out of town and we veered right onto Station Road and into Keele village. We ran into the campus and past the student union before turning right onto University Drive. We re-joined the A525 and we ran down the hill towards Newcastle. We past Hampton's scrapyard and Thistleberry. We ran forwards onto Blackfriars Road and we turned left onto the A53. We turned right on to the Southbound A34 and at the next roundabout we turned left onto Barracks Road. We ran into the bus station and we entered the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 63179 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63179 in Fenton

We waited for the bus to be readied for service and 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 we ran onto Barracks Road. We turned right at Jubilee roundabout onto the A53 and we ran around the one-way system onto the A52. We ran up George Street and into Hartshill we saw First Potteries 63178 on a #11 to Newcastle.. We ran through the village and down the hill into Stoke town centre. After a brief stop in Church Street we continued into Fenton up the A52, over the A500 and under the railway line. We ran up City Road and near to the top we got up and got off the bus. We crossed the road and we walked onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew chilled out in his room on his computer. we we saw First Potteries 67663 on a #11 to Newcastle. Matthew waited in his room because we were going to take him out to a barbecue and on a train ride. We arrived around 17:00 and we went downstairs and got in the car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. We turned right onto Station Bridge Road and we ran forwards onto Heron Street. At the lights we went straight onto Blurton Road before turning left and joining the Eastbound A50. We ran through Longton and Normacot and we came off the A50 at Meir. We joined the Northbound A520 and we ran through Weston Coyney and up to Cellarhead. We turned right onto the A52 and we ran out to Kingsley Moor before we veered left to continued along the A52. We ran through Kingsley and we went down the hill to Froghall. At the bottom of the road we turned right into the railway station and we parked up. Matthew visited the toilet and afterwards he sat down whilst I queued up to get his barbecue food. Matthew had a burger and a sausage bap. he washed this down with a bottle of Irn Bru from the car. Just before 18:30 we went and sat down on the train to wait for departure. Locomotive for the journey was Whiston, an Austerity tank engine usually based at Foxfield. We sat down in the Tourist Second Open coach 4354. We waited for the engine to run around the carriages and then we set off. It was the first time that Matthew had been on a train with me for at least 2 years! We set off Northwards and ran non stop through Consall. The train stopped at Cheddleton for the crossing gate to be opened and for the steam engine to take on more water. We continued Northwards up to Leekbrook Junction. After a brief stop we continued Northwards onto the Ipstones Branch. This was the first time Matthew had been on this part of the line. We set off up the steep 1 in 40 gradient and the engine really had to work hard to pull the 4 carriages up the hill. As we battled up the large chunks of ash came through the windows and covered the tables. We ran flat out up the hill past the site of the old Bradnop station and out into the open moorland. Before we reached Apesford Crossing we came to a stand for around 15 minutes and we appeared to run out of steam. After the wait we continued to the crossing. We stopped at threshing barn crossing as booked due to poor visibility. The guard watches the train through the crossing before getting back on the train. We continued to the current end of the line just short of the B5053 and Whiston ran around the carriages for the journey back. Whilst we were stopped I went to the brake van and purchased another bottle of 7up for me and Matthew to share. We set off down the hill and we stopped for Threshing Barn crossing. We also stopped at Apesford. We started the steep decent and we made another unscheduled stop. We continued down the hill and into Leekbrook Junction station. We travelled back South through the tunnel towards Cheddleton. After running through the tunnel we stopped in Cheddleton station. We had a stop for around 25 minutes and some of the passengers took advantage of the stop to go to the pub. The locomotive took on water and me and Matthew got off the train and had a look around. We got on the front coach and walked back through the train to our coach. We got back on and waited departure time. The locomotive back onto the train and sounded the whistle for about 30 seconds. Everyone came scurrying back from the pub! We set off and we continued South to Consall. We then did the last couple of miles back down to Froghall and then we got up and got off the train. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards went to the other end to have a look at the locomotive. We met back up with mum and then we went back to the car. Matthew enjoyed his train ride and perhaps we will do it again some time soon. Once in the car we drove off the car park onto the A52 and we went Westwards to Cellarhead. We turned left onto the A520 and we ran South to Meir. We joined the Westbound A50 and we ran through Normacot and Longton to Heron Cross. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we continued onto Heron Street. We continued onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Masterson Street and right onto Watkin Street. We turned right onto Temple Street and we returned to the residential unit. We went up the stairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. We said goodbye and Matthew settled down in his room. 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.

Trip to Longton / Hanley 28-06-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
63175	Fenton, Duke of Wellington	Longton, Market Street	6A	First Potteries
67603	Longton, Market Street	Hanley BS	11	First Potteries
67157	Hanley BS	Fenton, Smithpool Road	23	First Potteries
RX62 HTN	Fenton	Trentham	Charter	Magnum
DG55 FLK	Trentham	Fenton	Charter	City Cabs

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going out on the bus later on. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Around 09:00 we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre. At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX parked up.

Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton

In the morning we went out on the bus. We set off on foot onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road and we walked up past KFC onto King Street. Just after the convenience store we stopped at the barbers and Matthew had his hair cut. Once we had finished we walked back down King Street. We walked to the bus stop and we waited for a bus to Longton. After a short while we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63175 on a #6A to Blythe Bridge. We got on the bus and we booked to Longton before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off up City Road and forwards onto King Street. The bus ran for around a mile up to the edge of Longton. We went under the railway line. Market Street where we got up and got off the bus. Once of the bus we walked along Market Street and we turned into The Strand. We walked up The Strand and we stopped at the cafe for dinner. Matthew had a brunch washed down with a can of Coke. Once Matthew had finished eating we walked down The Strand. We turned right onto market Street and we walked to the bus stop. We waited for a bus to Hanley. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 67603 on a #11 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Market Street and we turned left onto Anchor Road. We ran up the hill to the top and ran down to the roundabout in Adderley Green. At the roundabout. at the East end of Bentilee we turned right onto Beverley Drive and then left onto Dawlish Drive. We ran to the end and we turned left onto Beverley Drive. At the end we turned right onto Dividy Road and we ran down the hill to Bucknall. We turned left onto the A52 and we ran to limekiln lights and we went across onto Bucknall New Road. We climbed the hill up to Hanley and we joined the clockwise ring road. We turned right onto Bethesda Road and right onto John Street and into the bus station we saw First Potteries 67657 on a #3 to Crewe. We got off the bus Matthew used the toilet. We waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 67157 on a #23 to Newstead. We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton and sat 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. We turned right onto Glebe Street and under the railway line an we ran around the one-way system in Stoke and stopped by Stoke Minster. We turned left onto Church Street and we crossed the A500 and we ran under the railway line. After climbing up the hill into Fenton we turned right into Christchurch Street where we got up and got off the bus. We walked back up Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street. At the day centre Matthew had an ice lolly. Later on we returned to the residential unit we set off on foot onto Christchurch Street and left onto Temple Street. Matthew went upstairs to his room and use his computer and watched buses out of the window. We saw First Potteries 67159 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67159 in Fenton

After a while we saw First Potteries 67157 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67157 in Fenton

Also seen was City Cabs DG55 FLK heading towards Stoke.

City Cabs DG55 FLK in Fenton

Another vehicle seen was First Potteries 67603 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 67603 in Fenton

For tea Matthew had sausages and mash followed by a slice of red velvet cake. Later on we went to Trentham. We went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. We walked down to the bus stop outside the flats. On the way we saw Afford rent-a-car KV19 NUC parked up in there depot.

Afford rent-a-car KV19 NUC in Fenton

The transport arrived and it was Magnum RX62 HTN. We got on and bus and we sat down. We set off along City Road and we turned right onto Glebedale Road. We continued onto Station Bridge Road and we followed the road to the right onto Heron Street. We went through the traffic lights onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued along Blurton Road and at the roundabout we veered right onto Church Road. We turned right onto the A5035 and we crossed over the railway line and into Trentham. We stopped near to the pub and we went visited the New pub that used to be a NatWest bank. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a glass of Coke. Once we had finished the drink we ran for a taxi back to Fenton. Transport for the trip was City Cabs DG55 FLK. We got on the bus and we sat down. We set off onto the A5035 and we crossed over the railway line into Blurton. We turned left onto Stanley Matthews Way and we ran past the BET365 stadium. We crossed over the A50 and we ran up to Heron Cross. We turned left onto Blurton Road and we went through the lights onto Heron Street. We ran forwards onto Station Bridge Road and left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Masterson Street and right onto Watkin Street. We turned right Temple Street and we continued back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. Once Matthew had put his shopping away he had a bath. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Carmarthen / Pembroke 26-06-2016

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
PO68 BYT	Fenton	Carmarthen	Charter	Harry Shaw
PO68 BYT	Carmarthen	Pembroke	Charter	Harry Shaw
PO68 BYT	Pembroke	Fenton	Charter	Harry Shaw

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going out and going to uncle Dave's later on. 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. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw First Potteries 63174 on a #11 to Newcastle. Later on we went downstairs. Transport for the trip to Carmarthen was Harry Shaw PO68 BYT. We got on the coach and we sat down. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road under the railway line and onto the A52. In Stoke we saw First Potteries 67641 on a #11 to Hanley. We joined the Southbound A500 and we ran down to the M6. We ran Southwards down to the M6. Into the West Midlands and e joined the Southbound M5. We ran down through the Midlands into the west Country and we joined the Westbound M4. We ran forwards onto the A48 and we joined the Eastbound A40. We entered Carmarthen town Centre and we stopped at Queens Street to drop off passengers. We got of and we went to the pub around the corner. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a glass of Coke. For dinner Matthew had A burger and fries followed by a chocolate fudge cake and ice cream. When we had finished we heeded back to wait for the coach to go forwards to Pembroke. Transport for the trip was once again Harry Shaw PO68 BYT. We got on the coach and we sat down. We set off out of Carmarthen and we joined the westbound A0. A few miles down the road we veered right onto the A477. We ran the last 20 or so miles into Pembroke and we got up and got off the coach. We parked up in town near to the railway station. Once off the coach we saw First Cymru 42906 on a #349 to Tenby. After a brief stop we returned to Fenton on Harry Shaw PO68 BYT. We got on the coach and we sat down. We set off out of town onto the Eastbound A477 and we ran up to the A40. We joined the Southbound A48 and we ran forwards onto the Eastbound M4. We ran through South wales into England and after crossing over the Severn we joined the Northbound M5. We ran out of the West country and into the Midlands and we ran to the Northern end of the M5. We joined Northbound M6 and we ran North through the West Midlands and into Staffordshire up to junction 15 where we cam off onto the A500. We traveled North up to Sideway and then we joined the Eastbound A50. We came off the A50 at Heron Cross and we turned left onto Blurton Road. We went through the traffic lights onto Heron Street. We carried on forwards onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Masterson Street and we turned right onto Watkin Street. We continued onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to use his computer and chill out in his room. We saw Copeland's Tours MIB 302 going towards Longton.

Copeland's Tours MIB 302 in Fenton

Also seen was First Potteries 67641 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 67641 in Fenton

Afterwards we saw D&G Bus 112 on a #1 to Meir.

D&G 112 in Fenton

When it was time to go to uncle Dave's we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and at the end we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We went across the spare ground onto Willowdale Avenue and onto Whieldon Road and into uncle Dave's. Matthew had some cheesecake and a can of Fanta orange. For tea Matthew had chicken potatoes and carrots. Later on he had another slice of cheesecake and a few digestive biscuits and custard creams. Uncle Dave now has a biscuit tin. Matthew chilled out in uncle Dave's house using his computer and watching television. Uncle Dave also did his DJ set. 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 past the new building under construction, which is now getting near to completion. We continued 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.

Trip to Hanley / Longton 25-06-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67154	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Hanley BS	23	First Potteries
67153	Hanley BS	Fenton, Smithpool Road	23	First Potteries
63171	Fenton, Victoria Place	Longton, Market Street	11	First Potteries
63175	Longton, stop C	Fenton, Victoria Place	6	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going to Hanley on the bus later on. Matthew got up around 08:00 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 63171 on a #11 to Newcastle. When it was time to go out we went downstairs and we cut through onto City Road and we walked down to the stop outside the flats. A few minutes later we saw a bus come around the corner. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67154 on a #23 to Hanley. 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 Street 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. We turned right onto John Street and once in the bus station we got up and as the bus was empty Matthew took a picture inside First Potteries 67154 before we got off the bus.

Inside First Potteries 67154

Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. In the bus station we saw required First Potteries 67658 on a #7A to Biddulph. Once off the bus we walked onto Lichfield Street and we went forwards onto Tontine Street. We walked onto parliament Row and Matthew visited The Card Factory. Afterwards we went to boots and to Poundland. Once we had finished our shopping we headed alonh parliament Row. We turned right onto Old Hall Street and left onto Lichfield Street and back to the bus station. In the bus station we saw First Potteries 67603 on a #3 to Crewe. We waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 67153 on a #23 to Newstead.

First Potteries 67153 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton and sat down towards the back of the bus. Whilst we waited for departure time we saw First Potteries 37158 on a #25 to Keele. 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. We turned right onto Glebe Street and under the railway line an we ran around the one-way system in Stoke and stopped by Stoke Minster. We turned left onto Church Street and we crossed the A500 and we ran under the railway line. After climbing up the hill into Fenton we turned right into Smithpool Road where we got up and got off the bus. We walked back up Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew chilled out in his room. He used the computer and watched buses out of the window. Matthew went out for dinner. We went in a car to Tunstall. We went downstairs and got in the car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Baker Street and left onto Glebedale Road. We turned right onto City Road and sharp left onto Victoria Road. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we went straight onto to Lichfield Street. We ran anti-clockwise around the ring road and we turned right onto Waterloo Road. We ran through Cobridge into Burslem and we continued forwards onto Scotia Road. We followed the road to the left onto Williamson Street and we turned right onto High Street. We parked up in the square and we walked around the corner to the Tunstall Cafe. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had Gammon, chips and egg washed down by a can of Coke. This was followed by a slice of toffee cheesecake. When we had finished we returned to the car and we returned to Fenton. We set of up High Street and we turned sharp right onto the by-pass. We ran past Asda and onto Scotia Road. We ran into Burslem and forwards onto Waterloo Road. We ran through Cobridge into Hanley and we ran Clockwise around the ring road. We turned left onto Lichfield street and we ran down to Joiners Square. We turned right onto the A52 and we ran near to the railway station and into Stoke. At the roundabout we turned left onto City Road and up the hill into Fenton. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left into Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched buses out of the window. We saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX parked up outside.

Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton

Also seen was Afford rent-a-car MK67 UEO parked up outside their garage.

Afford rent-a-car MK67 UEO in Fenton

Later on we went out for tea. We went downstairs and we set off to the bus stop. We walked onto City Road and we crossed over and headed towards Victoria Place. We waited at the bus stop near to Philpots for a bus towards Longton. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63171 on a #11 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Longton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We carried on along City Road and we continued forwards onto King Street where we saw Z Carz YJ12 SGV. We passed through Foley. We ran forwards into Longton and under the railway line into Longton town centre. The bus stopped on Market Street and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we cross over Market Street and we headed onto Baths Road. We walked past Tesco and we went towards Phoenix Retail park. We went to the pub and we had tea. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a glass of Coke. Matthew had a carvery with Turkey and beef followed by a slice of red velvet cheesecake. When we had finished eating we walk back onto Baths Road and we turned right onto THe Strand. We walked up to the stop near to the sweet shop and we waited for a bus back to Fenton. After a short while we saw it was First Potteries 63175 on a #6 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We bus set off down The Strand and we ran under the railway line onto King Street. We ran through Foley into Fenton and forwards onto City Road. We turned right into Victoria Road and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked back to the residential unit. We set of around the corner onto City Road and we crossed over. We turned left into Christchurch Street and right into Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to use his computer and watch buses out of the window. we saw Warrington's of Ilam YN08 AUM. 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.

Trip to Mansfield / Alfreton 22-06-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
27185	Mansfield BS	Alfreton BS	1	Stagecoach East Midlands
22647	Alfreton BS	East Midlands Designer Outlet	54	Stagecoach Yorkshire
22773	East Midlands Designer Outlet	Sutton-in-Ashfield BS	1	Stagecoach East Midlands
27184	Sutton-in-Ashfield BS	Mansfield BS	1	Stagecoach East Midlands
36522	Mansfield BS	Pleasley, adj Pit Lane	53A	Stagecoach East Midlands
36521	Pleasley, opp Pit Lane	Mansfield BS	23	Stagecoach East Midlands
27782	Mansfield BS	Mansfield, Moor Lane	1	Stagecoach East Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Mansfield. Matthew chose the destination independently and as the weather forecast for today was for warm sunny weather throughout the Midlands and North West we decided to stick with Matthew choice. Research for the trip consisted of Matthew finding and e-mailing me the relevant bus maps for the Mansfield area and I looked up the different Stagecoach tickets that we could buy. Thanks for sharing,visit my site at. Matthew got up around 10:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We set off around 11:45 onto the A5035 and we headed through Dresden into Longton. We joined the Eastbound A50 and we headed through Meir. Travelling up the A50 we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 104, silver minibus SF19 KKD and Potteries Airport Travel YM19 CFD. We went close to Uttoxeter and we went up the hill on the Doveridge by-pass. We came off the A50 onto the A511 and we ran up to Hatton. We stopped The Salt Box Cafe for dinner and Matthew used the toilet. for dinner Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a bottle of Coke. Whilst we ate we saw Trent Barton 703 on a V1 Villager service to Burton and Midland Classic 79 on a #403 to Burton. Once we had finished eating we set off onto the A511. We turned right onto the A516 and we ran through Hilton under the A50. We continued Northwards for a few miles up to the A38. We ran through Derby and over the M1 and past the East Midlands Designer Outlet. On the edge of Mansfield we followed the A 38 to the right and we ran the last couple of miles into town past the Stagecoach bus garage. We turned right onto Rosemary Street and we turned left into Mansfield railway station. Mum dropped us off here and we said goodbye. We walked over to the bus station and we saw Stagecoach East Midlands 10666 on layover.

Stagecoach East Midlands 10666 in Mansfield bus station

Also on layover was Stagecoach East Midlands 18028.

Stagecoach East Midlands 18028 in Mansfield bus station

We went into the bus station and Matthew used the toilet. After Matthew had used the facilities we looked for a bus to catch. We saw required Stagecoach east Midlands 27185 on a #1 to Alfreton.

Stagecoach East Midlands 27185 in Mansfield bus station

We got on the bus brought a Family Explorer Dayrider ticket at £11.60 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station onto Rosemary Street and we turned left onto the A38. We ran for a couple of miles out of the junction and we ran forwards onto the B6023. We continued for a further mile into the centre on Sutton-in-Ashfield and at the main roundabout we entered the bus station. After a brief stop we re-joined the B6023 and we continued Westwards. At the next roundabout we went forwards onto the B6026 and we ran for a round a mile into Huthwaite. We turned left B6027 and left onto Lane. We turned left onto Columbia Street and left onto Blackwell Road. We turned right onto Main Street and left onto Chesterfield Road. We ran North-Westwards out of town and we crossed over the track bed of an old railway line. We turned left onto Wild Hill and we went over the M1. We ran through Lane End and into Tibshelf. We travelled Southwards down the B6026 into Newtown and we ran forwards onto Alfreton Road. We ran through Blackwell and Westhouses and we joined the Southbound A61. We ran into Alfreton and we turned left onto Hall Street. We ran past Tesco and we entered the bus station. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Stagecoach East Midlands 27185 before we got off.

Inside Stagecoach East Midlands 27185

Once we got off the bus Matthew took another picture of Stagecoach East Midlands 27185 as it returned on the #1 to Mansfield.

Stagecoach East Midlands 27185 in Alfreton bus station

Matthew wanted to use the toilet so we spotted a cafe right next to the bus station. He used the toilet and afterwards we purchased a small bottle of cola. We went outside to the the bus station and Matthew drank his bottle of Cola. Whilst we waited for the next bus we saw Nova Tours NT65 NTL pull into the bus station.

Nova Tours NT65 NTL in Alfreton bus station

A short while later we saw Little's YJ16 DZP on a #150 to Matlock.

Little's YJ16 DZP in Alfreton bus station

Matthew ate a Freddo whilst we waited for the bus. A few minutes later we saw a bus enter the bus station. It was required Stagecoach Yorkshire 22647 on a #54 to the East Midlands Designer Outlet.

Stagecoach Yorkshire 22647 in Alfreton bus station

We decided to do this bus so we got on and flashed the Family Explorer Dayrider to the driver. The back of the bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Stagecoach Yorkshire 22647 before we saw down towards the back of the bus.

Inside Stagecoach Yorkshire 22647

We set off out of the bus station onto Hall Street and we turned left onto the A61 As we travelled Southwards we passed Stagecoach Yorkshire 15829 on a #56 to Chesterfield. We joined the Eastbound A38 and we ran fast along the road for around 3 miles. We crossed over the M1 and we ran for a further 1/3 mile before we left the A38. We crossed over the road and we ran down to the East Midlands Designer Outlet. We did a u-turn at the roundabout we we came back up the hill to the bus stop. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture Stagecoach Yorkshire 22647 before it worked the X54 to Chesterfield.

Stagecoach Yorkshire 22647 in East Midlands Designer Outlet

We sat down on a bench and we waited for the next bus towards Sutton-in Ashfield. We didn't have to wait long and we saw a bus approaching off the A38. As it got closer we saw it was required Stagecoach East Midlands 22773 on a #1 to Mansfield.

Stagecoach East Midlands 22773 in East Midlands Designer Outlet

We got on the bus and we flashed the Family Explorer Dayrider ticket to the driver. The rear of the bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Stagecoach East Midlands 22773 before sitting down towards the back of the bus.

Inside Stagecoach East Midlands 22773

We sat for a few minutes until departure time and we set off onto the B6406 and we crossed the A38. We saw an unidentified blue coach in Coleman's garage. We joined the Eastbound A38 and we ran to the next junction and we turned left onto Common Road. We ran Northwards for about a mile through an industrial area then into the housing estate to the South of Huthwaite. We turned right onto Blackwell Road and left onto Market Street. There was a bus at the stop so we went past and we turned left onto Main Street. We turned left onto Blackwell Road. We paused for a short while and we went back round the triangle. We turned left onto Market Street and we stop briefly at the main b us stop in town. We turned left onto Main Street and we headed Southwards down Common Road. We turned left onto Cross Lane. We turned left onto Columbia Street and at the end we turned right onto Blackwell Road. We ran for around a mile along the B6026 Sutton-in-Ashfield and at the main roundabout we turned right and entered the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Stagecoach East Midlands 22773 before it continued to Mansfield.

Stagecoach East Midlands 22773 in Sutton-in-Ashfield bus station

We crossed over the bus station and we saw Trent Barton 676 on a #141 to Nottingham.

Trent Barton 676 in Sutton-in-Ashfield bus station

Matthew spotted a bus next to the bus station and he wanted to go to the toilet. After using the facilities Matthew had a small glass of Coke. When we had finished the drink we went outside and met up with uncle Dave again. We walked down to the bottom stand to wait for the next bus to Mansfield. A few minutes later we saw required Stagecoach East Midlands 27184 on a #1 to Mansfield.

Stagecoach East Midlands 27184 in Sutton-in-Ashfield bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Family Explorer Dayrider ticket to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station onto the roundabout and we turned right onto the B6023. We travelled Eastwards for around a mile and we ran forwards onto the A38. We did the last couple of miles into town and we ran past Stagecoach bus garage. We turned right into Rosemary Street and left into Station Road. We pulled into the bus station and we got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew walked over to one of the ens stands and sat down. There was a bus to Halfway at 17:35, in just over 40 minutes time. We waited for the bus to arrive and it was required Stagecoach East Midlands 36522 a #53A to Halfway.

Stagecoach East Midlands 36522 in Mansfield bus station

We waited for the bus to be readied for service. Whilst we waited Matthew decided to visit to toilet. A few minutes before time the driver appeared and set the bus up ready for departure. We got on the bus and we flashed the Family Explorer Dayrider ticket to the driver. The rear of the bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Stagecoach East Midlands 36522 before sitting down towards the back of the bus.

Inside Stagecoach East Midlands 36522

We set off out of the bus station onto Quaker Way and we ran behind the back of the shopping centre. We ran forwards onto St Johns Street and we turned left onto the A6009. We ran Northwards our of town along the A6191 and we went forwards onto the A617. We ran to the South end of Pleasley and we veered left onto Chesterfield Road. We went a couple of stops up the road and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Stagecoach East Midlands 36522 before it continued of it's journey towards Halfway.

Stagecoach East Midlands 36522 in Pleasley

We crossed the road and we waited for the next bus back to Mansfield. There was one due in a few minutes. We saw the bus approaching and as it got closer we saw it was required Stagecoach East Midlands 36521.

Stagecoach East Midlands 36521 in Pleasley

We got on the bus and we flashed the Family Explorer Dayrider ticket to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off along Chesterfield Road and at the end we turned right onto the Southbound A617. At the North end of town we ran forwards onto the A6191. By Tesco we ran forwards onto the A6009 before turning right into Wood Street. We turned left onto Rosemary Street and we turned left into Station Road. We pulled into the bus station and we got up and get off the bus. As we got into the bus station we saw National Express liveries Travel de Courcey coach FJ13 EBA on a #311 to Hull. We arranged with mum to meet her on the outskirts town near to where she had being talking to our friend. In order to get to her we had to catch a #1 out of town to meet her. There was a bus due in less than 10 minutes. Whilst we waited for the bus to appear Matthew decided we were visiting the shop in the bus station. We brought a can of Coke and a bottle of Fanta, and Matthew also brought a few chocolate bars. Once we had finished shopping we headed back to the bus top to wait for the bus. Matthew sat down and ate a packet of Milky Stars. The bus arrived and it was required Stagecoach East Midlands 27182 on a #1 to the East Midlands Designer Outlet.

Stagecoach East Midlands 27182 in Mansfield bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Family Explorer Dayrider ticket to the driver for the final time today before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station onto Rosemary Street and we turned left onto the A38. We ran out of town past the Stagecoach bus garage and we got up and got off the bus. Meanwhile mum had decided to go and drop her friend off back at home. She turned up a few minutes later and turned into Moor Lane. We got in the car and Matthew had a bottle of Irn Bru. As we had no sausage rolls we decided to stop at a chip shop. We turned the car around and we turned left onto the A38. A few hundred yards up the road we pulled into a parking area and we stopped to pick up chips. Whilst there we saw Johnson Bros coach 7 JBT. Once we had the chips we continued on our journey. Matthew had sausage chips and gravy on a tray. We rejoined the A38 and crossed over the M1. We continued Southwards through Derby and we saw an unidentified Slacks coach. We veered left onto the A516 and a few miles down the road we joined the Westbound A50. As we travelled towards Stoke along the A50 we saw Roberts E11 RTG, Harpur's MX04 AEV & silver minibus YS17 ZKB. We came off the A50 and Longton and we went to Z Carz to see what was parked up tonight. The spare ground had no buses on it this evening so we turned left into Willow Row. We saw Z Carz Volkswagen minibus OV05 WSW parked up in the yard.

Z Carz OV05 WSW in Longton

Also there was Z Carz minibus YE52 UZX which is still parked up SORN. We turned the car around and we returned onto the A50. We ran up the Heron Cross and we turned left onto Blurton Road. We carried on down the hill into Blurton. We ran through Blurton before turning right onto Church Road we saw white minibus HV63 XXO parked up. We turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive and we got home around 19:30. We had already had tea so when we got home we had a slice of cake. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we did some more of the Blog. Matthew went to bed around 01:00... Mark.

Trip to Northwich / Newcastle 21-06-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
114	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Stoke, Stop P	11	D&G Bus
32649	Stoke, Stop P	Newcastle, Opp Cherry Tree PH	25	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. he was going to see Grandma later on and going to the pub and returning to Blurton for a long weekend. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Around 09:00 Matthew went downstairs and walked to the day centre. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre. At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX parked outside.

Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton

In the morning we went to Northwich by car. We set off onto Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. We turned sharp left onto Victoria Road and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout and we ran forwards onto Lichfield Street. We ran up the hill towards Hanley and we joined the clockwise ring road. We ran to the end and we turned left onto Etruria Road. At the roundabout we turned left onto the Westbound A53. We ran up to Etruria and at the roundabout we joined the Northbound A500. We ran Northwards up towards Talke and we turned right onto the Northbound A34. We ran forwards onto the A5011 and we turned left onto B5077. We ran through Alsager and we saw D&G 140 on the #317 to Sandbach. We ran under the M6 and we turned right onto Slaughter Hill. We ran into Haslington and we turned right onto Crewe Road. We ran through Winterley and Wheelock Heath and we crossed over the A534. We ran through Wheelock into Sandbach. We turned left onto the A533 and we ran through Elworth and Westwards into Middlewich. We continued through town and around the one way system and we continued Northwards up the A533. We continued into Northwich and we parked up at the Quay. At the Quay Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards he had dinner. For dinner Matthew had Chicken Tikka and chips followed by a slice of lemon meringue was down with a glass of Coke. There was going to be a soft play area at Barons Quay and Matthew went to see where it was going to be. When we had finished we returned to Fenton by car. We set off onto the A533 and we ran onto Chester Way. We continued Eastwards out of town along the A556 and we ran up to the motorway. We joined the Southbound M6 and we ran down to junction 16. We headed Southwards along the A500 and we ran through Longport and Etruria. We came off the A500 in Stoke and we joined the A52. We went under the railways line and we ran forwards up City Road into Fenton. We went up the hill and we turned right into Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to chill out and wait for me to come and pick him up. Whilst waiting we saw Britannia Travel 8 TXG going towards Stoke.

Britannia 8 TXG in Fenton

A short time later I came to pick him up and Matthew got ready to go to Blurton for the weekend, via Grandma's and the pub. Whilst getting ready we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 104 heading towards Stoke. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Stoke. At the Afford garage we saw Afford rent-a-car YN19 LUR parked up.

Afford rent-a-car YN19 LUR in Fenton

We walked to the bus stop and we waited for a bus to Stoke. Across the road is the old Fenton Blind School, which is soon to be demolished and flat are going to be built there.

Fenton Blind School in Fenton

A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G 114 on a #1A to Audley.

D&G 114 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke 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 where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew we waited for a #25 to Newcastle. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 32649 on a #25 to Keele.

First Potteries 32649 in Stoke

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off along Church Street and off up the hill along Hartshill Road. We passed the Noah's Ark pub and Just after the pub we turned left by the Co-operative Food store and we headed to the hospital. As we travelled through the hospital we saw First Potteries 63101 on a #22 to Longton and ABC Supreme HN18 VHM. We bounced our way through the hospital grounds over the severe speed bumps and we joined the North bound A34. A couple of stops up the road we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 32649 and it continued towards Keele.

First Potteries 32649 in Newcastle

We crossed over the A34 and we headed up the hill towards Grandma's. At Grandma's Matthew had toast and a can of Irn Bru and used her computer. He also had a slice of cake. When it was time to go we went to the pub in the car via uncle Daves house. We set off just after 16:40 and we set off onto Victoria Street. We turned the A34 and after the traffic lights we turned left onto The Avenue. At the end we turned right onto Hartshill Road. We ran down to Stoke and onto the one way system. We turned right onto Elenora Street and we followed the road around onto Copeland Street. We ran forwards onto Glebe Street and we followed the one way system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500. We turned right onto the A500 and we veered left int Fenton to pick up uncle Dave. We set off back down towards Stoke and onto the A500. We went around the one-way system. We turned left onto London Road and we saw First Potteries 67151 on a #21 to Hanley. We turned right into Keelings Road and at the roundabout we turned left onto Harpfields Road. We turned left onto the A34 and we ran into Trent Vale to the pub. The pub had just been refurbished inside and the beer garden area was still being worked on.

Construction in Trent Vale

We walked into the pub and sat down out our normal tables. Matthew had a brunch with oatcakes followed by toffee sponge pudding with custard. Whilst we ate highlights of the passing buses included First Potteries 67652 on a #101 to Stafford, First Potteries 37156 on a #101 to Hanley, First Potteries 67633 on the final #22 turn to Longton and ABC Supreme KX13 DZL going towards Newcastle. Once we had finished eating we set off We carried on along the A34 through Hanford and into Trentham. We were followed into Trentham by Shearings Grand Tourer 848. We turned left onto the A5035 and we crossed over the railway line and into Blurton. We got back around 19:00. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we sorted a few things out. We wrote the Blog and we sent a couple of e-mails. We chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark

Trip to Westport Lake / Bradeley 20-06-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
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. He was also going out to Westport Lake. 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. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw D&G Bus 113 on a #1 to Meir.

D&G 113 in Fenton

Also seen was white minibus J66 ?? heading towards Hanley.

J66 in Fenton

Around 09:00 we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre. At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX parked up.

Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton

In the morning Matthew went to the Hub. We set off onto Christchurch Street and into The Hub. Matthew went to the toilet and did arts and crafts. Later on he returned to the day centre. We set off onto Christchurch Street and up to the day centre. For dinner Matthew had a cheese oatcake followed by a cornflake cake. In the afternoon Matthew went to Westport Lake. Transport for the trip was Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We set of onto Glebedale Road and we turned left onto City Road we saw Stanton's of Stoke OLZ 229 going towards Hanley. We ran down the hill and into Stoke. We went under the railway line and we joined the Northbound A500. We ran through Etruria up to Longport and we came off the A500 onto the A5271. We ran through Longport up to Trubshaw Cross and we turned left onto Brownhill Road. We turned left onto Westport Lake Road and we stopped in the car park. We got out of the minibus and we walked around the lake. Once we had been for the walk we returned to Fenton on Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We got on the bus and sat down. We set off onto Westport Lake Road and we turned right onto the A5271 and we turned right onto the Southbound A500. We ran through Etruria to Stoke and we came off the A500. We turned left onto City Road. We went under the railway line and up the hill into Fenton. We turned right into Smithpool Road and left into Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to chill out in his room and use his computer and watched buses out of the window. we saw First Potteries 65730 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 65730 in Fenton

Another vehicle seen was First Potteries 63097 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63097 in Fenton

For tea Matthew had chicken Fajitas followed by a slice of cheesecake. Later on Matthew went out to the pub by car. We went downstairs and we got in the car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned onto Christchurch street. We ran on to Manor Street and at the end we turned left onto Victoria Road. We ran down the hill to Joiners Square and we crossed over the roundabout onto Lichfield Street. We ran up the hill to Hanley and we joined the anti-clockwise ring road. We turned onto Town Road and we ran towards Birches Head. We ran forwards onto the A5272 and we ran through Sneyd Green into Smallthorne. At the roundabout we turned right onto Ford Green Road. We ran town the hill to the bottom and we turned left into Chell Heath Road. We turned right into Hayes Road and we ran forwards onto Stratheden Road and to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a drink of Coke. Once Matthew had finished his drink we returned to Fenton by car. We got in the car and we set off onto Stratheden Road. We ran forwards onto Hayes Street and we turned right onto Chell Heath Road. We turned right onto Ford Green Road and we we ran up Smallthorne Bank. At the roundabouts we turned left onto the A5272 and we ran through Sneyd Green into Birches Head. We ran forwards onto Town Road and and we joined the clockwise ring road. We turned left onto Lichfield Road and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We turned right onto the A52 and we ran towards the railway station. We ran alongside the the railway line and we turned left onto City Road. We ran up the hill into Fenton and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and we returned to the residential unit. We went upstairs to Matthew's room to chill out. 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