Thursday 31 March 2022

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 31-03-2022
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67157Fenton, adj Travers CourtHanley BS23First Potteries
67157Shelton, Film TheatreFenton, Albert Square23First Potteries
65027Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS11First Potteries
32650Newcastle BSHanley BS25First Potteries
67142Hanley BSFenton, Albert Square23First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus 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 44514 on a #23 to Newstead. We went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. On the way to the bus stop we saw Afford Rent-A-Car PJ69 RYZ.


Afford Rent-A-Car PJ69 RYZ in Fenton
A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67157 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67157 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 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. We entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. At the bus station Matthew used the toilet. We afterwards we left the bus station and we crossed Lichfield Street and and went forwards onto Tontine Street. We walked through Tontine Square to the Intu Potteries shopping centre. Once we had finished we went out of the Shopping centre onto Stafford Street. We turned left onto trinity Street and we saw First Potteries 69161 on a #7A to Biddulph. We continued onto Marsh Street we saw Stanton's of Stoke 4051 VT on a #60 to Brown Edge.


Stanton's of Stoke 4051 VT in Hanley
We continued along Bethesda Street and we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 797.


Copeland's Tours MIB 797 in Hanley
We called for a taxi to Shelton. The taxi appeared and it was a Z Carz taxi. We got in taxi and we set off along onto Bethesda Street we saw Harry Shaw YR17 CYL at the depot. We crossed over the ring road and we ran down onto Regent Road and forwards onto Cleveland Road. We turned left into The Parkway and we went into Hanley Park and parked in the car park. We walk northwards through the park and into the North West corner to the sensory play area where Matthew had a can of Coke. Once we had finished in the park we walked down College Road. We visited Wrights Pies and we brought a sausage roll, can of Coke and a Manchester Tart. We waited for a bus back towards Fenton. A short time later we saw D&G Bus 157 on a #9 to Westbury Park.


D&G 157 in Shelton
A short time later we saw First Potteries 67157 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 67157 in Shelton
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton and sat down towards the back of the bus. We continued down 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 then walked back onto Christchurch Street we turned left onto Temple Street and to the residential unit and went upstairs to his room and we saw First Potteries 63175 on a #23 to Hanley. 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 First Potteries 63012 on a #3A to Hanley.


First Potteries 63012 in Fenton
A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was First Potteries 65027 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. Matthew took a picture of First Potteries 65027 before it returned to Hanley on the #11 service.


First Potteries 65027 in Newcastle bus station
A few minutes later we saw required D&G Bus 125 on a #1 to Meir. A few minutes later a bus to Hanley appeared and it was dud First Potteries 32650 on a #25 to Hanley.


First Potteries 32650 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we went upstairs. When it was time to go the bus set off out of the bus station and onto Barracks Road. We turned left at the roundabout onto the A34. we ran South as far as the hospital where we turned left. As we travelled through the hospital. We came out of the hospital and turned left onto Hilton Road. We ran into Hartshill and we turned right onto the A52. We ran down the hill into Stoke town centre and along Church Street. After a brief stop we continued along the A52, over the A500 and under the railway line. We followed the A52 to the left and we ran alongside the railway and onto Station Road. We passed the railway station and we turned right onto Stoke Road and we turned right onto Avenue Road. At the roundabout we turned left onto College Road. We ran up the hill through Shelton and we followed the road to the right onto Cleveland Road and Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road, continuing onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off up Lichfield Street and forwards onto Tontine Street. We walked through Percy Street and onto Stafford Street and we went to Dixy Chicken for tea. Matthew used the facilities and afterwards had chicken and fries washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished Matthew walked along Stafford Street and we saw First Pottereus 69148 on a #7A to Biddulph. We turned left onto Lichfield Street and we headed into the bus station and we waited for a bus back towards Fenton. A short time later we saw First Pottereus 65039 on a #7A to Biddulph. A short time later the bus appeared and it was First Pottereus 67142 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 67142 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we ran down John Street and left onto onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto the clockwise ring road and we turned left onto Hinde Street. We turned right 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 then walked back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. Later on Matthew had a bath and had toast for supper. Matthew went on his computer until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Wednesday 30 March 2022

Trip to Leek / Newcastle 30-03-2022
















BusFromToServiceOperator



125Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS1D&G Bus


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to Belper he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to Belper and we saw First Potteries 69163 on a #11 to Hanley. In the morning Matthew went to Leek. We went downstairs and we got in a car. We set off onto Temple Street. we turned left onto Christchurch Street whwre we saw First Potteries 67156 on a #23 to Hanley. We turned left onto Baker Street and left into Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned sharp left onto Victoria Road. 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 and we saw First Potteries 65041 on a #18 to Hanley. 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 turned left onto St Edwards Street and left onto the A523 past the site of the new Tim Hortons. We took the next right turning and parked up. We went in the pub and Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew had a mixed grill with beans washed down with a glass of Coke. For afters Matthew had chocolate fudge cake and custard. When we had finished we got in the car and we set off onto the A523. We turned right onto St Edwards Street and right onto the A53. We ran out of lee town centre and we climbed the hill up towards Ladderegde. We continued through Longsdon and down towards Endon. We continued down through Stockton Brook and we turned left onto the A5009. we ran through Baddeley Green and into Abbey Hulton. We continued under the railway line and into Bucknall. At the light we ran forwards onto the A52 and towards Joiners Square. We turned left onto Victoria Road and right onto the private road up the the and we saw Copeland's Tours NV58 YTD outside the baths. We came out of the other side and we turned left onto City Road. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. He used his computer and watched buses out of the window. Later on we went out on the bus to Newcastle. 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 WM70 DHN parked up in there depot. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 125 on a #1 to Park Site.


D&G 125 in Fenton
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. We continued along Church Street onto Hartshill Road and into the centre of Hartshill. We turned left into the Avenue and left again onto Hilton Road before turning right into the City General Hospital. As we travelled through the hospital we saw First Potteries 47519 on a #22 to Longton, Travel Express FG14 RCX and ABC Supreme YO69 AYZ. Once through the hospital we turned right onto the A34 and we ran into Newcastle. We crossed the roundabout and we ran up Barracks Road and into the bus station from the South end. Once we got to the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Once we got off the bus we saw D&G Bus 27 on a #9 to Westbury Park.


D&G 27 in Newcastle bus station
We set off onto Hassell Street and we turned right onto High Street and we stopped at McDonalds. Matthew had a burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. Once we had finished we walked down High Street and we turned left into Church Street. We turned left into Midway and left int Pepper Street. We stopped briefly at Mana Flux gaming before continuing to the soft play area. We went down pepper Street and onto Church Street via Midway. We turned left onto the Southbound A34 and we went under the subway on to the A34. We turned left onto the A525 and we turned right onto Stanier Street. When we got into the building Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards Matthew went outside and went on the slide. They have recently upgraded the soft play area. When we had finished we said goodbye and we returned to Fenton in a taxi. We set off along Stanier Road and we turned left onto Pool Side. We turned left onto Dunkirk and we turned right onto Knutton Lane. We around the roundabout and back onto the Ryecroft and we ran forwards onto the one-way system. We continued onto the A52 and we run up to Hartshill. We veered left onto Shelton New Road and we stopped briefly near to the old Gilberts furniture shop. We continued down Shelton New Road through the traffic lights and we turned right to join the Southbound A500. We stayed on the high level road and we came off the A500 at City Road. We ran under the railway line and up the hill into Fenton. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and Matthew went to his room. He watched television and used his computer. later on he had a bath. For supper Matthew had some toast. Matthew went to bed around 23:00... Mark

Tuesday 29 March 2022

Trip to Hanley / Kidsgrove 29-03-2022
















BusFromToServiceOperator



65729Fenton, Victoria PlaceLongton, Market Street6First Potteries
173Longton, stop CHanley BS50D&G Bus
63098Hanley BSKidsgrove, Queen Street7First Potteries
63034Kidsgrove, Town HallHanley BS3AFirst Potteries
69174Hanley BSFenton, Victoria Place11First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus and party were also coming to visit. 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 dentist, we saw Temple Street Church RX18 GZW. Later on we went downstairs and we set off Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street. We across City Road and we saw D&G Bus 115 on a #11 to Park Site. At the top we crossed over Victoria Road to wait for the bus at the bus stop. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was dud First Potteries 65729 on a #6 to Park Hall.


First Potteries 65729 in Fenton
We got on the bus and we booked to Longton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off up City Road and forwards onto King street We ran through Foley 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 crossed over Market Street and onto Transport Lane. We went into the Bennett Precinct and out the other side into the car park. We walked onto the Strand. We crossed over the road and went into Lidl. We walked up The Strand and we waited at the bus stop. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was D&G Bus 173 on a #50 to Hanley.


D&G 173 in Longton
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down The Strand. We turned left into Baths Road and we entered Longton Transport Interchange. After a brief stop we ran out onto Baths Road and we turned left under the railway line onto King Street and then right onto Goldenhill Road. We crossed Newmount Road and we went forwards onto Annette Road. We then turned right onto June Road and followed it around to the left before turning left onto Fenpark Road. We passed the Pool Dole pub an we headed down the hill past Fenton mast down onto king Street. We turned right onto City Road past the site of the new Burger King. We turned right into Victoria Road. We continued down the hill and we crossed over the A52 at Joiners Square. We ran up Lichfield Street and we turned left onto the ring road. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street and into the bus station. we got up and got off the bus and we set off onto Lichfield Street. We continued along Tontine Street. We continued through the square onto Parliament Row and we walked up McDonalds and we had tea. Matthew had a burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. Once We walked along Parliament Row and we continued into the Intu Potteries shopping centre. We went through the shopping centre. We had a walk around the shops and afterwards we walked through Tontine Square onto Tontine Street. We walked onto Lichfield Street and we entered the bus station. We saw First Potteries 63098 on a #7 to Kidsgrove.


First Potteries 63098 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Kidsgrove before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we ran down John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and we crossed Broad street onto Marsh Street. We turned right onto Trinity Street and we stopped on Stafford Street to to pick up more passengers before we left town along Quadrant Road. We crossed over the ring road and we headed out of town towards Sneyd Green along Town Road. We continued to Smallthorne roundabouts and we continued forwards onto High Lane where we saw First Potteries 69162 on a #7A to Hanley. At the end of High Lane the end we turned left onto the A527. We turned right onto Turnhurst Road and we ran up to Packmoor. We continues into Newchapel and onto the High Street. We turned left onto Pennyfields Roads and at the roundabout we went onto Newchapel Road. We ran through the estate via Galleys bank and we ran into Kidsgrove and the bus terminated on King Street where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw blue minibus SF70 LWT parked up.


SF70 LWT in Kidsgrove
We walked down Attwood Street and Matthew used the toilet. We turned left onto Liverpool Road and up to the bus stop. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 63034 on a #3A to Hanley.


First Potteries 63034 in Kidsgrove
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down. We set off along the A50. We ran up the hill into Goldenhill and we saw Hollinshead JH22 HOL. We continued into Sandyford and we crossed the roundabout and past the new development on the left and ran into Tunstall. We ran down the High Street. We continued down the High Street an we turned left onto Williamson Street. At the roundabout we turned right onto Scotia Road and past the the old bus garage before running up the hill into Burslem Town centre. We ran through the light onto Waterloo Road and up the hill into Cobridge. We ran down the hill towards Hanley and then up into town along Hope Street and Stafford Street. We turned right at the end past the town hall and onto Bagnall Street before entering the bus station where we got up got off. Once off the bus we visited the toilet. We waited for a bus back to Fenton. A short time later we saw First Potteries 69174 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 69174 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 turned left onto the ring road and left onto Lichfield Street and we turned right onto Birch Terrace. We followed the road around onto Charles Street and we turned right onto Old Hall Street. We crossed over the ring road onto Bucknall New Road. We ran down the hill through Limekiln lights. we turned right onto Dividy Road. We turned left onto Beverley Drive and right onto Dawlish Drive. We ran through the estate and back onto the A5272. We ran up to Adderley Green and we saw First Potteries 33565 parked in the garage. At the roundabout we turned right onto Anchor Road. system onto Commerce Street and right onto The Strand. After a brief stop we ran down the Strand and under the railway line onto King Street. We continued down through Fenton and forwards onto City Road. We went past KFC and we got up and got off. We walked down City Road. We turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned right onto Temple Street and we returned to the residential unit. Matthew went upstiars to his room to chill out. We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Smithpool Road. We had a walk around the pool and then we returned along Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Temple Street and we walked back to the residential unit. We went upstairs. Matthew returned to his room to chill out. Matthew went downstairs and went to the main lounge for party food. He had a ham bap and he ate some of his cupcakes and a jammy dodger. He also ate a few party rings and a small bag of Haribo washed down with a glass of Coke. After the party Matthew went back upstairs to his room to chill out. Matthew 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

Thursday 24 March 2022

Trip to Newcastle / Longton 24-03-2022
















BusFromToServiceOperator



65728Newcastle BSLongton TI22First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus and to visit 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. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw Temple Street Church minibus RX18 GZW. we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. In the distance we saw Temple Street church minibus RX18 GZW. We carried on along Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We went to do the shopping. transport for the trip was a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off onto City Road and we crossed over and onto Manor Street. At the end of Manor Street we turned left onto Victoria Road and and we stopped at Aldi to pickup Matthew's weekly shop. Once Matthew had finished shopping we returned to the Newcastle in Autocabs taxi. We set off up Victoria Road and we crossed over the roundabout Lichfield Street. We got onto the anti-clockwise ring road. We ran around to Etruria Road and we turned left and headed under the A53 onto Festival Way. After running around the loop of festival Way and Forge Lane we re-joined the A53 and we saw ABC Supreme NU65 FHX. We ran over the A500 into Basford and we dropped down into Newcastle. We ran forwards onto Ryecroft and we turned left onto the Southbound A34. We turned inti Hassell Street and we parked up in the Roebuck Centre car park. We walked through the Roebuck Centre and onto High Street. In the shopping centre Matthew ate his chicken sandwich and a bottle of Coke. Once we had finished into Ironmarket and we turned left onto Castle Walk. We continued down to the bus station. Once at the bus station we waited for a bus back towards Longton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 67158 on a #11 to Hanley. We waited for a bus towards Longton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 65728 on a #22 to Longton. We got on the bus and we booked to Longton before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road and we ran Southwards onto the A34. We turned left into the hospital and we ran through the the grounds. As we travelled through the hospital we saw ABC Supreme YA67 VBC & ERS Medical FJ21 HGM. We turned right onto Hilton Road and forwards onto Harpfields Road we saw First Potteries 69155 on a #22 to Newcastle. We ran to the end and we turned left onto the Southbound A34. We ran under the A500 into Hanford and we turned left onto Church Lane. We climbed to the top of the hill and we turned right onto Wilson Road. We turned left onto New Inn Lane and we ran into Trentham. We turned left onto the A5035 and we crossed over the railway line into Blurton. We passed the end of Stanley Matthew Way and we turned left onto Magdalen Road. We turned right onto Finstock Avenue and left onto Beaconsfield Drive where we stopped to wait time. After a short wait we continued along Beaconsfield Drive and we saw First Potteries 63099 on a #22 to Newcastle. We ran through the estate to the other end. We turned left onto Church Road and at the the roundabout we turned left onto Blurton Road. We ran to the bottom of the hill and we turned right onto Longton Hall Road. We ran up the hill and we ran forwards onto Heathcote Street. We turned left onto the high level A50 and at the roundabout we turned right onto Baths Road. We ran past Tesco before turning right into Longton Interchange. Once off the bus Once off we walked over to Tesco and Matthew used the toilet. Afterwards we went outside to we waited for the taxi to Fenton. When it arrived we saw it was an Intercity taxi. We set off onto Baths Road towards Longton and we did a u-turn at the roundabout. We headed for the A50. We traveled Westward to Heron Cross and we turned right onto the A50 link road. We turned left onto City Road and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. He used his computer and watched buses out of the window. We saw Stanton's of Stoke WIL 2928 going towards Longton.


Stanton's of Stoke WIL 2928 in Fenton
We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Smithpool Road and we stopped at the chip shop. We picked up some food and we set off along Smithpool Road. We crossed over the railway line and we walked down to the entrance of the park. Matthew had a washed down a can of Irn Bru. In the park Matthew walked up to the playground. Once we had finished in the park we walked back along Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Temple Street past the Queen Elizabeth II Court. We continued back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs back to the room and went on his computer. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. In the distance we saw Temple Street church RX18 GZW. We turned left onto Smithpool Road. We went across the spare ground onto Willowdale Avenue and onto Whieldon Road and into uncle Dave's. Dave's house. For tea Matthew had chicken potatoes and carrots with gravy followed by a slice of toffee cheesecake. Later on he had a drink of Fanta orange and a few digestive biscuits. 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 saw Afford rent-a-car YR69 EZZ. We turned onto Willowdale Avenue we saw silver minibus DK53 VRE parked up.


DK53 VRE in Fenton
We crossed the spare ground and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Temple Street past the Queen Elizabeth II Court. 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.

Wednesday 23 March 2022

Trip to Bentilee / Newcastle 23-03-2022
















BusFromToServiceOperator



113Fenton, Victoria PlaceNewcastle BS1D&G Bus


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to Belper he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to Belper and we saw First Potteries 69163 on a #11 to Hanley. After tea Matthew went for a walk to Aldi to get some shopping. We set off onto City Road and we crossed over and onto Manor Street. At the end of manor Street we turned left onto Victoria Road and we went down the hill to Aldi. Matthew brought his shopping and then we got a lucky Seven taxi back to the residential unit. We set off onto Victoria Road and we saw KB Coaches YS18 NSK. We turned right onto Manor Street and left onto City Road. We ran past the site of the new Burger King and we went forwards onto King Street. We ran through Foley and we under the railway line into Longton town centre. We ran up 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. In the back of the First garage we saw relatively new arrival First Potteries 33547. We continued along Dividy Road and we stopped near to Wrenbury Crescent. We visited the Respite place and went upstairs to the kitchen Matthew had sausage chips and gravy for dinner followed by a trifle. Matthew went to his room and chilled out. He also went and we saw Intercity BK70 FTU parked up. After the visist we went back to the residential unit. We said goodbye and we went downstairs and got in the taxi. We set off onto Dividy Road and we headed Eastwards to Adderley Green. We turned right at the round about onto Anchor Road and we ran up the hill and down into Longton. We joined the one-way systam and we turned right onto Commerce Street. We crossed over the A50 and we joined the Westbound carriageway. We came off at Heron Cross onto Heron Street and we followed the road around onto Station Bridge Road. We turned left onto Christchurch street and left again onto Masterson Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses before going out later on. We saw First Potteries 63176 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63176 in Fenton
Whilst in his room we saw Stoke-on-Trent city council LK17 DXB going towards Heron Cross.


Stoke-on-Trent city council LK17 DXB in Fenton
Also seen was Travel Express BG61 HSY going towards Heron Cross.


Travel Express BG61 HSY in Fenton
We went downstairs and we walked onto City Road. As we walked up the bus stop we saw First Potteries 63176 on a #11 to Newcastle. A few minutes later we saw dud Premier Travel DY63 UAN. A few minutes later we saw D&G Bus 113 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. We continued along Church Street onto Hartshill Road and into the centre of Hartshill. We turned left into the Avenue and left again onto Hilton Road before turning right into the City General Hospital. hospital. As we travelled through the hospital we saw ERS Medical YJ21 FWO and ABC Supreme YO69 AZA. Once through the hospital we turned right onto the A34 and we ran into Newcastle. We crossed the roundabout and we ran up Barracks Road and into the bus station from the South end. Once we got to the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took a picture of D&G Bus 113 before it continued towards Park Site.


D&G 113 in Newcastle bus station
We set off on foot up Hassell Street and we turned right onto High Street and we stopped at McDonalds. Matthew had a burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. Once we had finished we walked down High Street and we turned left into Church Street. We turned left onto the Southbound A34 and we went under the subway on to the A34. We turned left onto the A525 and we turned right onto Stanier Street. We walked onto Stanier Street and we walked along the footpath which used to be the Dunkirk Court. We came out onto Dunkirk. We walked up Castle Hill Road and we crossed over the roundabout onto Bridge Street. Afterwards we walked back down Hickman Street and over onto Corporation Street. We turned right onto Merrial Street and we saw First Potteries 63146 on a #4 to Wereton.


First Potteries 63146 in Newcastle
A short time later we saw First Potteries 32634 on a #25 to Keele.


First Potteries 32634 in Fenton
we turned left into Church Street. We turned left onto the Southbound A34 and we went under the subway on to the A34. We turned left onto the A525 and we turned left onto Stanier Street. When we got into the building Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards Matthew went outside and went on the slide. When we had finished we said goodbye and we returned to Fenton in a taxi. We set off along Stanier Road and we turned left onto Pool Side. We turned left onto Dunkirk and we turned right onto Knutton Lane. We around the roundabout and back onto the Ryecroft and we ran forwards onto the one-way system. We continued onto the A52 and we ran into Hartshill. 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 and we turned left onto Glebe Street. We turned right onto Lytton Street and we ran through onto City Road. We ran under the railway bridge and we ran up the hill into Fenton. We turned right into Smithpool Road and we turned left onto Temple Street past the new building under construction and back to the residential unit. 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 21 March 2022

Trip to Stoke / Hanley 21-03-2022
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67147Blurton, Ladybank GroveStoke, Lytton Street23First Potteries
65038Etruria, Queensway FlyoverHanley BS101First Potteries
67147Hanley BSBlurton, Ladybank Grove23First Potteries


Today we decided to go to Bailey's for dinner wth uncle Dave. We had also seen that a few ex Weston appear to be being transfered to First Potteries. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had toast for breakfast. We got ready to go out and we set off to the bus stop on Beaconsfeld Drve around 11:00. On the way to the bus stop we saw First Potteries 63173 on a #22 to Newcastle and First Potteries 63099 on a #22 to Longton. We got to the bus stop and we saw D&G Bus 174 on a #24 to Hanley. We waited for the next first bus towards Hanley. A short tme later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67147 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67147 in Blurton
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road. At the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road. We ran through Blurton and up the hill into Heron Cross. We crossed over the A50 and we went through the traffice lights onto Heron Street. We followed the road around onto Station Bridge Road and and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We stopped at the end of the road and we waited time and we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 783 going towards the baths. The original plan was to get off on City Road and to walk along Napier Street and over Carter's Crossing to meet up with uncle Dave, but Dave messaged us to say that Carter's Cross bridge was closed. We turned left onto City Road and we ran down the hill towards Stoke. We went under the railway line and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew got another picture of First Potteries 67147 as it continued towards Hanley.


First Potteries 67147 in Stoke
Once off the bridge we walked along City Road and we got onto the the Trent and Mersey canal where we met up with uncle Dave. We headed Northwards around the back of the railway station and through Cliff Vale. When we got to Cockshute we veered left onto the path that runs along side the railway line. We cam out by the Railway Enterprise Centre and we crossed over the A500 slip road onto Garner Street. We continued up to Emerys Builders Merchants and we cut into the yard to Bailey's Food Truck. Matthew gave Baz a Terry's chocolate orange and Matthew had a cumberland sausage ring, bacon and egg on a bap washed down with a can of Coke. When we finished eating our food we said godbye to the Bazzers and we walked along Garner Street. We walked up the ramp onto Shelton New Road and we walked back towards Hanley to the nearest bus stop. We checked the timetable and we saw that was a bus due in a couple of minutes. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. It was First Potteries 65038 on a #101 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we got a First Day Saver at £5.20 before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Shelton New Road and we crossed over the Trent and Mersey Canal and up the hill. We crossed over the Cauldon Canal and we followed the one way system to the left of harry Ramjam's. We turned right onto Etruria Vale Road and we ran to the roundabout. We turned left onto Snow Hill and we headed towards Hanley. We turned right onto the ring road and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we entere the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 65038.


First Potteries 65038 in Hanley bus station
Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we walked up to John Street car park to get a few bus pictures. We saw First Potteries 44511 on layover.


First Potteries 44511 in Hanley bus station
Also seen was First Potteries 63179 on a #4 to Audley.


First Potteries 63179 in Hanley bus station
Another vehicle seen was First Potteries 69173 on a #7 to Kidsgrove.


First Potteries 69173 in Hanley bus station
We returned to the bus station and we walked down to Stand S to wait for the next bus back to Blurton. A short time later we saw First Potteries 69163 on a #7A to Biddulph. Our bus arrived on stand and it was First Potteries 67147 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 67147 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Blurton before we sat down. 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 and we continued onto Station Bridge Road. We ran forwards onto Heron Street and we went through the traffic lights onto Blurton Road. After crossing over the A50 we continued through Blurton. We turned right onto Church Road and right onto Beaconfield Drive. We ran to the other end and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off back to the house. Matthew had a can of Fanta orange and ate his Manchester tart. We chilled out and we continued writting the Blog until it was time to return to the residential unit in the car. We set off through Blurton onto Finstock Avenue and we turned left onto Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and left again onto Blurton Road and we ran through Blurton. We crossed over the A50 and into Heron Cross. We ran forwards onto Heron Street and we followed the road around onto Station Bridge Road we saw Ash to Adderley Y49 JUX. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto Masterson Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and we continued onto Temple Street. When we got there we saw Temple Street Church minibus RX18 GZW parked up nearby. We back to the residential unit. Matthew collected a few suypplies from the car and we went upstairs to his room and we put all his shopping in his cupboard or in the kitchen. Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke. He chilled out in his room using his computer and watching buses out of the window. We saw First Potteries 65030 on a #11 to Newcastle. For tea Matthew had chicken & rice. Matthew then went out to catch a bus to Hanley. We went downstairs and it was an Intercity taxi. We got in the taxi and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we crossed over City Road onto Manor street. At the end of manor street awe turned left onto Victoria Road. We ran down to joiners Square and we crossed over the roundabout onto Lichfield Street. We crossed over the ring road and we parked up in the small car park in front of the pub. We went into the Coachmakers Arms. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had 1/2 a Coke. After we had finished we returned to Fenton in a taxi. We got in the taxi and we set off onto Lichfield Street. We crossed over the ring Road and we ran down to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout onto Victoria Road and we ran up the hill into Fenton. At the roundabout we turned sharp right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and we went to his room and chilled out. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room. 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.

Saturday 19 March 2022

Trip to Warrington / Manchester 19-03-2022
















BusFromToServiceOperator



3256Warrington InterchangeTrafford Centre BS100Go North West
3108Trafford Centre BSEccles Interchange100Go North West
3240Eccles InterchangeManchester Shudehill67Go North West
6164Manchester ShudehillBrougton, Cheetham Street West97Go North West
6157Broughton, Great Clowes StreetEccles Interchange52Go North West
3257Eccles InterchangeIrlam, The Ship100Go North West


Today we decided to re-visit Warrington. Research consisted of checking the weather, which for unseasonably warm and sunny weather and checking the price of Warrington Day tickets. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had toast for breakfast. After mum had returned home from work we got ready to go out, and we set off around 11:30. We set off through Blurton and onto Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road. We ran through Blurton and into Heron Cross and over the A50. At Heron Cross lights we turned left onto Grove Road. We ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. Once we had picked up uncle Dave, we continued down Wheildon Road and we joined the Northbound A500. As we ran up towards the motorway we saw silver minibus DK20 RJJ, Cabability LK66 AET, Z Carz DC12 KNG and Bullocks PB14 BUL. We joined the M6 and we headed Northwards. On the M6 we saw Anthony's Travel RB16 ANT, an unidentified Travel Express coach, an unidentified Ellison's coach and black minibus EJ61 FLM. We came off the M6 at junction 20 and we joined the A50. We ran Northwards through Grappenhall and Latchford and we ran into Warrington. After crossing over the Mersey we tried to get to a cafe on Parr Street through an industrial estate but the road had been cut off with bollards! We went back out onto the roundabout and we joined the Eastbound A49. We went to the next roundabout and we did a u-turn. We turned left onto Hall Street and we ran forwards onto Parr Street. We parked up and we headed into the cafe. Matthew went to the toilet and we sat down and ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. Once we had eaten we got back into the car and we set off towards the Golden Square shopping centre. We kept making wrong turns so we spent several miniutes going around in circles between the roundabout over the Mersey and the Times Square multi storey car park. eventually we headed Eastwards along the A49 and we turned left onto the A57. We ran past the Interchange and we entered the shopping centre car park up the spiral ramp. Once we had parked up we got in a lift and went down to the shopping centre. We said goodbye to mum and we walked through the shopping centre and into the interchange. We decided to have a walk around to see what we could catch. we went around the outside of the bus station to the layover spaces to see what was parked up. We saw Network Warrington 224 which we think mght have just lost it's offside wing mirror.


Network Warrington 224 in Warrington Interchange
Also seen was Go North West 3256 on layover in between runs on the #100 to Manchester.


Go North West 3256 in Warrington Interchange
We continued around the bus station and we saw Network Warrington 59 on a #17 to Callands.


Network Warrington 59 in Warrington Interchange
We entered the interchange and Matthew walked towards the stand where the 100 was due to depart. I hadn't planned on doing Go North West buses. But a quick view of the side of the bus revealed that they did a paper day ticket. We got on the bus and we booked Day tickets at £5.50 each. We went upstairs and Matthew took a photo inside Go North West 3256 before we sat down.


Inside Go North West 3256
A few minutes later the bus set off and we went under the shopping centre. We turned left onto Legh Street and we headed Southwards. We turned left onto Sankey Street and right onto Bold Street. We turned left onto Suez Street and we ran forwards onto Rylands Street. We turned right onto Bridge Street and left onto Academy Way. We turned left onto Academy Street and right onto Buttermarket Street. We crossed the A49 and we left town along Church Street. We joined the Eastbound A57 and we continued out of town. We continued through Bruche and Woolston before crossing over the M6 at junction 21. We continued Eastwards along the A57 before we turned left onto Manchester Road into Hollins Green village. We paused outside of of the Black Swan pub, before rejoining the A57. At the next roundabout we turned left onto Liverpool Road and we ran into Cadishead. We continued under the railway line and into Irlam. we rejoined the A57 at Barton Moss and we ran past the Baron City Airport. We ran forwards onto the Salford Western Gateway and past the A J Bell stadium. We followed the road under the M60 and over the Manchester Ship canal lift bridge. We ran forwards onto Trafford Way and we crossed the Bridgewater circular before entering the Trafford Centre. We pulled into the bus statio and we got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Go North West 3256 before it continued on towards Manchester.


Go North West 3256 in Trafford Centre bus station
Once off the bus we took a few more pictures before going to the toilet. before we went as Matthew was taking a picture of an Arriva bus, the driver called us over. He handed Matthew a piece of Arriva Merchandise over and Matthew said thank you to the driver. After Matthew had been to the toilet we stood at North end of the bus station whilst we waited for the next Go North West bus that we could do on the ticket. Whilst we were waiting we saw a number of Vision Travel double deckers coming and going into the bus station. Sale Sharks had been playing at home against Wasps. Vision Travel run shuttle to the stadium and back to allow fans to park up at the Trafford Centre. We saw Vision Travel BJ11 DUV on one of the Sale Sharks shuttle buses.


Vision Travel BJ11 DUV in Trafford Centre bus station
Also seen was Vision Travel BJ11 DTF on another one of the Sale Sharks shuttle buses.


Vision Travel BJ11 DTF in Trafford Centre bus station
After about a 20 minute wait we saw Go North West 3108 on a #100 to Manchester.


Go North West 3108 in Trafford Centre bus station
We got on the bus and we placed the Go North west day ticket under the scanner before we went upstairs. At the same time we saw Go North West 6160 on a #52 to Cheetham Hill. The bus set off out of the bus station and we headed East on the B5214. At the next roundabout we turned left onto the B5211 and we ran North over the river Manchester Ship Canal. We ran Northwards through Barton upon Irwell and we ran alongside the Bridgewater Canal. We turned right onto the A57 and we crossed over the canal. We ran the 1/2 mile into Eccles. We continued forwards onto Church Street and we entered the Interchange. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Go North West 3108 before it continued on towards Manchester.


Go North West 3108 in Eccles Interchange
Once off the bus we had a quick look around. We saw Diamond North West 20871 on a #65 to Prestwich. We headed back inside the Interchange and we spotted Go North West 3240 on a #67 to Manchester.


Go North West 3240 in Eccles Interchange
We got on the bus and we placed the Go North west day ticket under the scanner before we went upstairs. The bus set off out of the Unterchange and we travelled Eastwards along Regent Street. At the roundabout we joined the Northbound A576 and we crossed over the M602. We continued the road turned through 90' and we travelled Eastwards past Salford hospital. WE continued for another mile before diving down below the A6 and coming up on Pendleton roundabout. We ran around the roundabout past the police station and KFC and down the side of Salford Shopping Centre on Hankinson Way. After a brief stop opposite to the shopping centre and continued down to the roundabout and we turned left onto Churchill Way. We turned left onto Cross Lane and we turned right onto the A6. We passed Salford Crescent railway station and we headed into town passing white minibus N121 BUS. We continued along Chapel Street and we went under the railway line by Salford Central railway station. We continued into the city centre and we turned left onto Victoria Street. We turned right onto Hunts bank and past the Manchester Arena and the entrance to Manchester Victoria railway station. WE followed the road around to the right onto Victoria Station Approach and we went forward onto Todd Street past the National Football Museum. We turned right onto Corporation Street and left onto Withy Grove. We continued onto Shudehill and we entered the Interchange. Once off the bus we had a walk around. Matthew used the toilet, and becasue the disabled toilet was out of action it cost 60p to take him to the toilet for me to go and make sure that he was okay and get through the dodgy turnstyle. We walked up to the top end of the Interchange and we saw Go North West 6207 on a #98 to Bury.


Go North West 6207 in Manchester Shudehill
Also seen was Megabus 54263 on a M36 service to Bristol.


Megabus 54263 in Manchester Shudehill
We walked up to the top end of the bus station and we took some pictures on the road outside. We saw Stagecoach Manchester 10850 on a #112 to Manchester Piccadilly.


Stagecoach Manchester 10850 on Shudehill
A few minutes later we were surprised by preserved Bolton Corporation 77 which was heading into Shudehill Interchange.


Bolton Corporation 77 in Manchester Shudehill
Another vehicle seen was Stagecoach Manchester 10863 on a #112 to Middleton.


Stagecoach Manchester 10863 in Manchester Shudehill
We headed back into the Interchange and we saw Go North West 3001 on a #17 to Rochdale.


Go North West 3001 in Manchester Shudehill
I originally tol Matthew that we had to leave on a #33/67 or 100 service so they we could headed back towards Warrington. Matthew spotted a #97, so we decided we could do this Northwards to intercept the #52 bus. It pulled onto the stand and we saw that it was Go North West 6164 on a #97 to Bury.


Go North West 6164 in Manchester Shudehill
We got on the bus and we placed the Go North west day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the Interchange and we turned right onto Shudehill. We continued onto Withy Grove and we turned right onto Corporation Street. We turned left onto Todd Street and we continued onto Victoria Station Approach. We ran past the front of Victoria Railway statio along Hunts Bank and we turned left onto Victoria Street. We ran along Chapel Street and we turned right under the railway line onto Blackfriars Road. We continued Northwards out fo the city centre and we crossed over the A6042. We continued Northwards up the A6041 and we continued forwards onto the A5066. We crossed over the river Irwell and we Headed along Great Clowes Street. When we got to Albert park we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Go North West 6164 as it continued Northwards towards Bury.


Go North West 6164 in Brougton
We walked around the corner to the bus stop on Great Cheetham Street West and we waited for a Orbits bus towards Eccles. Whilst we waited we saw Go North West 6156 on a #52 towards Cheetham Hill.


Go North West 6156 in Brougton
A short time later we saw Go North West 6157 on a #52 to Eccles.


Go North West 6157 in Brougton
We got on the bus and we placed the Go North west day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Great Cheetham Street West and ran forwards onto Cromwell Road. We crossed over the Irwell and we turned right onto Gerald Road. We turned left onto Douglas Green and we turned left onto Langley Road South. We turned right onto the A576 and we ran Southwards towards Pendleton. We crossed over the A6 and we ran down past the side of Salford Shopping Centre along Hankinson Way. We turned right onto Heywood Way and right onto Fitzwarren Street. We turned left onto Seedley Road and left onto Langworth Rpad. We turned right onto Liverpool Street and we ran forwards onto Tootal Road. We followed the road around the corner onto Tootal Drive and we turned left onto Eccles Old Road. We crossed over the M602 and at Ladywell roundabout we turned right onto Regent Street. We pulled up outside of the Interchange and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over the road and we visited the Eccles Cross pub. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we had a glass of Coke. When we had finished we left the pub and crossed back over the road to join uncle Dave. We saw Arriva NW&W 3134 on a #10 to Brookhouse.


Arriva NW&W 3134 in Eccles Interchange
Right behind the Arriva bus was Go North West 3257 on a #100 to Hollins Green.


Go North West 3257 in Eccles Interchange
We got on the bus and we placed the Go North west day ticket under the scanner for the final time today before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off from outside the Interchange and we ran along Regent Street. We ran forwards onto Church Street and forwards onto Liverpool Road. We turnd left onto the B5211 and we headed into Barton upon Irwell and over the Manchester Ship Canal. We turned right onto the B5214 and we came into the Trafford Centre from the North end. After a stop in the Trafford Centre bus station we came out of the bus station and we headed onto Trafford Way. We ran past the Travelodge where we saw an unidentified Roberts Travel(Hugglescote) coach. We ran along the Salford Western Gateway, over the Manchester Ship Canal and under the M60. We ran past the A J Bell Stadium and we joined the Westbound A57. We ran past the City Airport to Barton Moss where we turned right onto Liverpool Road. As we ran towards Irlam we saw an unidentified The Traveller's Choice coach heading Eastwards along the A57. We turned right onto Silver Street and left onto Morrilion Road. We turned left onto Merlin Road and left onto Cutnook Lane. We ran forwards onto Moorfield Road and we turned right onto Liverpool Road. We ran past Prince's Park and we got up and got off the bus outside Lidl. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Go North West 3257 as it continued towards Hollins Green.


Go North West 3257 in Irlam
Once off the bus we walked past Lidl and we headed into the car park at Tesco to meet up with mum. Matthew and I went into Tesco and he used the toilet. Afterwards we brought a meal deal of which Matthew had a bottle of Coke, and he also had a Kinder egg. We returned to the car and we set off to a nearby chip shop, We set off onto Liverpool Road and we turned right onto Ferryhill Road. We stopped at the chip shop and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with his bottle of Coke. When we had finished eating we continued along Ferryhill Road and we turned left onto Ferry Road. We turned left onto Liverpool Road and we turned left onto Fairhills Road and past Tesco. At the end of the road we turned right onto the A57. We ran Weswards under the former railway line to Stockport and we joined the Southbound M6. We headed Southwards through Cheshire and we came off the We came off the M6 at junction 16 and we joined the Southbound A500. Seen on the A500 were 2 x unidentified Burland coaches and Jayjays Travel YM61 PUA. We came off the A500 at Stoke and we headed Southwards before veering left onto Whieldon Road. We stopped at uncle Dave's house. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards drank some of uncle Rob's pop. We set off onto Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton and we turned right onto Church Road. We turned right onto Beaconsfiels Drive and we got back to Blurton around 19:50. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we did some of the Blog. We also wrote a few emails and generally used the computer to entertain ourselves. We watched TV and Matthew got ready for bed. Matthew settled down around 00:00... Mark