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Tuesday 30 April 2024

Trip to Trentham / Bentilee 30-04-2024
















BusFromToServiceOperator



63364Trent Vale, Newcastle LaneTrentham Gardens101First Potteries
63361Trentham, Poachers Cottage PHHanley BS101First Potteries
47520Hanley BSBentilee, Twigg Street11First Potteries
YJ07 VRMBentilee, Arbourfield DrivePark Hall, Defoe Drive26Stanton's of Stoke
126Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS1AFirst Potteries
63366Newcastle BSHanley BS11First Potteries
67152Hanley BSFenton, Albert Square23First Potteries


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 the day centre he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw Travel Express BG61 KTK. We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street and we went into the Co-operative Food store and Matthew had a can of Coke. We walked back out onto Christchurch Street. We went to hospital in a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off Christchurch Street. We crossed over City Road and we crossed over the A500. We went around the one-way system. We ran up the hill into Hartshill and we turned left into the Avenue and left again onto Hilton Road before turning right into the City General Hospital and we waited we saw E-zec patient transport YJ20 BNY.


E-zec patient transport YJ20 BNY in UHNM
In the hospital grounds. After an Appointment Matthew had a sausage sandwich and a can of Coke. We cut through onto hospital we turned right onto the A34 and waited at the bus stop outside of we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 536. A few minutes later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63364 on a #101 to Stafford.


First Potteries 63364 in Trent Vale
We got on the bus and we booked to Trentham before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the A34 and we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 293. We ran down through Hanford. We continued down through to Trentham where we saw First Potteries 63358 on a #101 to Hanley. Near to the old entrance to the gardens we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we went to across the road the road and into Trentham Gardens. Matthew went to the toilet. Once we had finished shopping we walked down to The News Kiosk Matthew brought Ice Cream Cone with Flake. We went into the gardens and we walked to the North West corner and we stopped to benches sit down on the benches. Matthew had a Ice Cream Cone with Flake. Once we had finished eating we walked back through the main gate and onto the A34 opposite the A5035. We turned left and walked along the A34 to the old Gardens entrance where the bus stop is situated. Once we had finished eating we walked back through the main gate and onto the A34 opposite the A5035. We turned left and walked along the A34 to the old Gardens entrance where the bus stop is situated. We waited for a bus back towards Newcastle. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 63349 on a #101 to Stafford.


First Potteries 63349 in Trentham
As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63361 on a #101 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63361 in Trentham
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down. We set off Northwards up through Hanford along the A34 and we saw ABC Supreme YA67 VBB. We went under the A500 in Trent Vale. We continued Northwards into Newcastle and past the hospital. At the roundabout we turned right onto barracks Road and into Newcastle bus station. After a brief stop we continued towards Hanley. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran forwards onto the one-way system. We continued onto the A52 and when we got to Hartshill we veered left onto Shelton New Road. We ran over the railway line and canal and we went up to Snow Hill. We turned left and ran up Broad Street. We turned right onto the ring road and left onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we ran up to the bus station. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we waited for a bus to Bentilee. A short time later the bus arrived on stand. It was First Potteries 47520 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 47520 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Bentilee 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 and we turned right onto Dividy Road and we turned left onto Beverley Drive. We got up and got off the bus. We walked down Beverley Drive and we cut through onto Dividy Road and we waited for the bus to Park Hall. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it came closer we saw it was Stanton's of Stoke YJ07 VRM on a #26 to Park Hall. We got on the bus and we booked to Bentilee before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto Dividy Road and we ran up to Adderley Green and we saw First Potteries 33569 parked in the garage. At the roundabout we continued towards Park Hall. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we went to across the road the road and into we continued towards Park Hall. we headed towards Hulme village. We turned right at the entrance to Park Hall and we ran to the main car park where we got out of the taxi. Once at the visitors centre we went for a walk. We walked around the country Park and we stopped a few times to have a rest. Matthew climbed up to the top of a few of the hills. when we had finished we called for a taxi back towards Adderley Green. When it arrived we saw it was an Intercity taxi. We got in the taxi and we set off out of the Country Park. We turned left onto Hulme Road and right onto the A5272. We passed the Scraggs Coaches depot and we turned left onto Anchor Road. We ran down towards Longton and we turned right into Heathcote Street. We turned left Longley Road and we crossed over Ashwood onto Clarence Road. We turned right onto King Street. We ran through Fenton, running forwards onto City Road. We turned left onto Glebedale Road and we ran along Baker Street onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and right onto Masterson Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and onto Temple Street to go back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to chill out and use his computer. We saw Lucky Seven PO11 CCG going towards Hanley. 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. At the Afford garage we saw Afford rent-a-car CA70 BHZ parked up.


Afford rent-a-car CA70 BHZ in Fenton
A few minutes later we saw dud Scraggs 1 HVT. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. It was D&G Bus 126 on a #1 to Park Site.


D&G Bus 126 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 ERS Medical YJ21 FWO and ABC Supreme HV22 HKL. 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. We decided to do a bus up to Hanley. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 35943 on a #25 to Keele.


First Potteries 35943 in Newcastle bus station
A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63366 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63366 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran up to the Jubilee roundabout. We ran onto the A53 and around the one-way system onto the A52. We ran up George Street into Hartshill and we ran down the hill into Stoke town centre. After a brief stop we continued along Church Street out of Stoke and over the A500. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. 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 stopped outside the old job centre as the #11 no longer calls in the Interchange. 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. 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 we turned right onto John Street. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Afterwards Matthew visited the shop and brought a egg sandwich and bottle of Coke. We waited for the next #23 back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 67174 on a #21 to Trentham. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67152 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 67152 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus bus and we booked to Stafford before We sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off through the bus station. and onto John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and left onto Broad Street. We ran down the hill and over the ring road onto Snow Hill Before we turned left onto Avenue Road. At the roundabout we turned right onto College 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 under the railway line. We ran up City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over city Road and walked back to the residential unit. Matthew went back upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. For tea Matthew had a Lamb Mince Pasta Bake Cheese & Bacon with chips followed by Manchester tart. Matthew spent time in his room watching television and using 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.

Monday 29 April 2024

Trip to Brownhills / Cannock 29-04-2024
















BusFromToServiceOperator



BG61 KTKFentonWestbury ParkCharterTravel Express
BG61 KTKWestbury ParkFentonCharterTravel Express


Today Matthew was going back to the residential unit, but first we had to go and pick up mum from work and do his weekly shop. Matthew had his medication and got up around 08:30. Matthew had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We got ready and we set off around 09:30. We got in the car and we ran through Blurton and we ran down to the A5035. We turned right onto Stanley Matthews Way and we ran to the other end and joined the Westbound A50. We ran to Sideway and joined the Southbound A500. We ran down to Hanchurch and we joined the Southbound M6 As we travelled Southwards we saw an unidentified Johnsons coach, an unidentified silver minibus, an unidentified white minibus, A Line Coaches WA07 BHE, Hearns YD23 FOK, 2 x unidentified Masons coach and Lochs & Glens SJ73 HWA. We came off the M6 at junction 11 and we joined the A460. We ran to the South of Cannock before joining the Eastbound A5. We ran for a few mile before turning right onto the A452. We ran to Brownhill and we turned left onto Lichfield Road. We saw National Express West Midlands 2140 on a #8 to Walsall. We ran down to mum's work and we picked her up. Afterwards we turned around and we joined the Northbound A5. We ran to the big interchange with the A34 and we continued along the A5 and we turned right onto Delta Way. We turned left onto Longford Road and parked up. We walked back along Delta Way and we saw Chaserider 67 come into the depot. We walked through the gates of Chaserider and we went to the Pit Stop Cafe. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished eating Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we went outside and Matthew took a picrure of Chaserider 40 parked up in the bus garage.


Chaserider 40 in Cannock
We walked onto Delt Way and we turned left onto Longford Road. We got back in the car. We set off along Longford Road and we continued onto Hatherford Road. We turned continued onto Parkside Lane and we turned left onto the B5012. We turned left onto Wolgarston Way and we turned right on to the Northbound A449. We ran through Penkridge and we joined the M6 at junction 13. We ran Northwards to junction 15 and we came off the motorway. We ran forwards onto the A500 and we ran through Hanford and Stoke. We ran through Etruria and we came off the A500 at Wolstanton. We entered the retail park to go towards Asda and we saw blue minibus SG71 YLU parked up. We parked up and went to do Matthew's weekly food shop. Afterwards we returned to Blurton. We got in the car and we saw beige minibus N704 SDV.


N704 SDV in Wolstanton
We ran out if the retail park and we joined the Southbound A500. We ran through Etruria and Stoke and we came off the A500 at Sideway and onto the Eastbound A50. We came off the A50 onto Stanley Matthews Way and we saw D&G Bus 174 on a #24 to Hanley. We turned left onto the A5035 and we came back to Blurton. In them afternoon we chilled out writing the Blog. Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke. Mum went upstairs to rest black jogging bottoms. Just after 16:30 we got ready and we set off back to the residential unit. We set off onto Beaconsfield Drive passing silver minibus WR14 YAK. We continued along Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road and left again onto Blurton Road and wwe caught up with First Potteries 67144 on the #23 on to Hanley. We went through the traffic lights onto Heron Steeet. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto Masterson Street and we saw silver minibus YR11 OJC. We turned right onto Watkin Street and we continued onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room and we put all his shopping in his cupboard or in the kitchen. Matthew had a bottle of Coke. Matthew chilled out on his computer and watched buses out of the window. we saw Cabability WJ65 BKE. For a late tea Matthew had sausage and potatoes followed by a slice of lemon meringue pie. Matthew then went out to catch a bus to Westbury Park. We went downstairs and we saw it was Travel Express BG61 KTK. We got on the bus and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we crossed over City Road. We ran down the into Stoke and we went under the railway line. We crossed over the the A500 and we turned left onto Southbound A500. We ran past Sideway to Hanford. We turned right onto the A519 and we turned left onto Westbury Road and to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a a glass of Coke. After we had finished in the pub we returned to Fenton in Travel Express BG61 KTK. We set off onto Westbury Road and we turned right to run anti-clockwide around the estate. We turned right onto Wye Road and we crossed over Seabridge Lane and we turned left onto the Northbound A519. We ran into Newcastle and we went around the roundabout onto Barracks Road and past the bus station. We crossed the Jubilee Roundabout onto the A53 and we ran through Basford to Etruria. We got onto the Southbound A500 at Stoke. We turned left onto City Road and we went under the raileay line and up into Fenton. We continued up City Road before turning right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room and chilled out in his room and use his computer and watch buses out of the window. Matthew also drank a can of Cherry Coke. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. 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

Saturday 27 April 2024

Trip to Bristol / Bath 27-04-2024
















BusFromToServiceOperator



35147Weston-super-Mare InterchangeBristol BSX1First Bristol
36802Bristol BSBath BSX39First Bristol
33858Bath BSClaverton VillageD2xFirst Bristol
67102Claverton VillageBath BSD2xFirst Bristol
36818Bath BSBristol BSX39First Bristol
35147Bristol BSWeston-super-Mare InterchangeX1First Bristol
35685Weston-super-Mare InterchangeBurnham-on-Sea, (W-bound)20First Bristol


Today we were on the second day of a holiday in Somerset. Matthew woke up around 07:00. He had his medication at 08:00 and got up around 09:00. Matthew had toast washd down with a glass of orange Fanta. Just after 10:00 we got in the car and we set off to Weston-Super-Mare. We set off out of the caravan park onto Westfield Road and we turned left onto the B3140. At the roundabout be turned left to continue following the B3140. We headed Eastwards for a few miles and we joined the Northound A38. We veered left onto the A370 and we continued to head North into Weston-super-Mare. We followed the A370 to the right and we turned left onto Walliscote Road We turned left onto Oxford Street and right nto High Street before we turned into the NCP car park. Once we had parked up said goodbye to mum and we walked down onto Regent Street. We stopped at Greggs and we bought sausage rolls and a bottle of Coke. As we approached the Interchange we saw First Bristol 67108 on a A3 to Bristol Airport.


First Bristol 67108 in Weston-super-Mare Interchange
We set at the bus stop and we ate a sausage roll each. Matthew also had his bottle of Coke. Whilst at the bus stop we saw Edwards BV23 ZXL on a #100 to Birmingham.


Edwards BV23 ZXL in Weston-super-Mare Interchange
A few minutes later we saw another X1 on stand. As it got closer we saw it was First Bristol 35147 on a X1 to Bristol.


First Bristol 35147 in Weston-super-Mare Interchange
We got on the bus and we booked at Avon Rider Group ticket at £14 before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off along the B3440 and we headed Eastwards. We continued for a couple of miles to Worle and we clled into the small bus station by the retail park. We Rejoined the B3440 and we crossed over the M5 and headed Eastwards along the A370. We headed through Hewish and the road turned sharp left in Congresbury. We ran North Eastwards through Cleeve and Backwell before the road turned Eastwards through Flax Bourton. We joined a fast section of the A370 with no stop until we reached the Western edge of Bristol. After a brief stop near to Ashton Gate we ran forwards onto the A3029 and we crossed over the river. We crossed the Brunel Lock and we headed Eastwards along the A4. We ran forwards onto the A38 which appeared to be the main road through Bristol where most of the local buses were stopping. We turned left onto the B4051 and we turned left into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew went to the toilet. After using the facilities we came out to see what we could catch. Alomost immediately we saw First Bristol 36802 on a X39 to Bath.


First Bristol 36802 in Bristol bus station
We got on the bus and we flashed the Avon Rider group ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Lower Maudlin Street. We crossed the A38 and we ran onto Bridewell Street. We turned left onto Broadmead Street and right onto Fairfax Street. We ran through a tunnel and we turned right onto Merchant Street. We turned right on to Newgate and we ran forwards onto Wine Street. We turned left onto Bristol Bridge and we ran along the B4053. We ran forwards onto the A4 and we passde Bristol Temple Meads railway station. We crossed the river over Totterdown bridge and we ran up the hill past the paintworks. We continued Eastwards past the Lodekka pub and into Brislington. We ran forwards onto tje Keynsham bypass and we ran fast around the town and into Saltford. We continued Eastwards along the A4 and we crossed the river at Newbridge. We continued to the edge of the city and we saw First Bristol 37634 on a #4A to Weston. We turned right onto Little Stanhop Street and we turned left onto James Street West. We continued onto Saint James's Parade and we ran forwards onto Southgate Street before entering the bus station from the West end. We pulled onto a stand and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we had a wal around the bus station. We walked to the West end and we saw Faresaver BJ11 DVN.


Faresaver BJ11 DVN in Bath bus station
We walked back towards the bus s ation and we went through the old booking office to the toilet. Afterwards we walked intothe bus station to see what we could catch. We saw First Bristol 33933 on a #172 to Bristol. A few minutes later we saw a bus come on stand. It was First Bristol 33858 on a D2x to Frome.


First Bristol 33858 in Bath bus station
We got on the bus and we flashed the Avon Rider Group ticket to tbhe driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out of the bus station and we turned right onto Dorchester Street. We turned left onto Manvers Street and we headed Northwards. We continued onto Pierrepont Street and we turned left onto Orange Grove. We ran forwards onto High Street and we turned right onto Bridge Street. We crossed over the river and we ran onto Argyle Street. We continued onto Great Pulteney Street and we turned left onto the A36. We continued Eastwards up the hill to bathampton and the road veered right and we headed Southwards. We passed First Bristol 67101 on a D1 to Bath. We continjued for about another mile and we came into Claverton where we decided to get up and get off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of First Bristol 33858 as it continued towards Frome.


First Bristol 33858 in Claverton
We crossed over the road and we decided to have a quick look up the footpath into the village. There was nothing there apart from a postbox and a defribulator! by the time we got back to the bus srop we had about 15 minutes to wait. We had a look for supplies in the trip bag. Matthew ate a Milky Way whilst we waited. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Bristol 67102 on a D2x to Bath.


First Bristol 67102 in Claverton
We got on the bus and we flashed the Avon Rider Group ticket to the driver befoer we sat down towards the middle of the bus. We set off Northwards along the A36. The road wheeled around to the left and we headed Westwards through Bathampton. We ran down the hill into the City and we turned right onto Great Pulteney Street. We continued onto Argyle Street and we crossed over the bridge before turning left onto Grand Parade. We ran into a square where there were coaches loading up with passengers. These included Trafalgar TT22 TTL and Airsym YD22 BZL. We ran forwards onto Pierrepont Street and we continued onto Manvers Street. We turned right onto Dorchester Stree and we ran around the bus station entering from the West side. We piulled onto a stand and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over Dorchester Street and we went to the Sainsbury's Local shop. We headed back into the bus staion and we had around 10 minutes to wait for the bus back to Bristol. After a short wait we saw a bus pull onto the stand. We sawi it was First Bristol 36818 on a X39 to Bristol.


First Bristol 36818 in Bath bus station
We got on the bus and we flashed the Avo Rider Group ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus pulled out of the bus station and we turned left onto Dorchester Street. We headed onto Saint James's arade and we ran out of town Westwards along the A4. We headed out of the city and through Saltford where we saw Arleen YC16 XAH. We went onto the Keynsham bypass and at the other end we saw First Bristol 33973 on a #349 to Keynsham. We continued down the hill through Totterdown and we crossed the bridge and into Bristol. We ran past Temple Meads station and we went forwards onti the B4053 We crossed over Bristol Bridge and we followed the road to the right onto Wine Street. We turned left onto Union Street and we turned left onto Rupert Street. We ran around Primark and we headed Eastwards along the A38. We turned left onto the B4051 and we entered the bus station fron the Eastern end. The bus pulled onto a stand and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew used the toilet. We had about 15 minutes for the next X1 and we saw Edwards Coaches National Express liveried coach BV66 WPJ on a #040 to London. We walked out of the bus station and onto Cannon Street. We crossed over a green ont the A38 and we visited the Bay Horse. Matthew had a glass of Coke. We quickly drank the drink and we headed back along the path onto Cannona Street and back into the bus station. When we got into the bus station we saw the bus was already on stand. As we got closer we saw it was First Bristol 35147 on a X1 to Weston-super-Mare.


First Bristol 35147 in Bristol bus station
We got on the bus and we flashed the Avon Rider Group ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Lower Maudlin Street. We turned right onto the A38 and we ran through the city centre. There were dozens of buses on both sides of the A38. We ran forwards onto the A4 and we crossed over the docks before leaving town along the A3029 and over the river. We ran past Ashton Gate before joining the A370. The football had just finished and a few of the quicker fans managed to get on the bus. We continued onto the fast section of the A370 and we saw an unidentified laser coach and CJJ Travel LE18 ONN. We ran though Flax Bourton and Backwell and into Congresbury where we turned right to continue following the A370. We ran through Hewish and we crossed over the M5. We ran onto the B3440 and we stopped at Worle Retail Park. Afterwards we ran through the retail park and continued along the B3440 into Weston-super-Mare. We ran forwards ontoi Locking Road and into the Interchange where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Bristol 35147 before it continued to Asda.


First Bristol 35147 in Weston-super-Mare Interchange
We had around 10 minutes before the last bus to Burnham-on-Sea. Mattew deicded he needed the toilet so we headed back over to Tesco to used the toilet there. When we had finished we we rushed back over the road and the bus was already on the stand. As we got closer we saw it was First Bristol 35685 on a #20 to Burnham-on-Sea.


First Bristol 35685 in Weston-super-Mare Interchange
We got on the bus and we flashed the Avon Rider Group ticket to the driver for the final time today. The bus set off out of the interchange and we turne right onto the B3440 past the railway station. We turned right onto the A370 and we headed out of town. We headed Southwards for a few miles and at Easttown we turned right onto Lympsham Road. We passed through Lympsham ans we continued Westwards along Rectory Way Way. We turned left onto Brean Road and we ran forwards onto Wick Road. After running tnrough Wick we turned right onto Ham Road an left onto Weston Road. We passed Warren Farm holiday park and we turned left onto the B3140. We ran through Brean and Berrow passing First Somerset 34416. We continued into Burnham-on-Sea and we ran forwards onto the B3139. We turned right onto Marine Drive and we ran forwards on to Station Approach passing First Somerset 34469 on a #21 to Taunton. When we got to the centre of Burnham-on-Sea we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Bristol 35685 before it returned to the depot.


First Bristol 35685 in Burnham-on-Sea
Once off the bus we waited for mum to come and pick us up. When mum arrived we drove onto the Esplanade and I went to the chips shop to get some food. This particular place is somewhere I will never return to, as they charged me as if I was eating in even though they were fully aware I was taking away. They heard my non-local accent and decided to rip me off. We took the food and we set off Northwards up the Esplanade, We turned right onto SeaView Road and right onto the B3140. We turned left onto Westfield Road and we continued onto the caravan park. We got back into the caravan and we ate our sausage and chips, which incidentally weren't that nice. We chilled out in the caravan and we had some Cherry Coke. Later on we all had a toffee Crisp. After doing some of the Blog and writing an e-mail we went to bed around 23:30... Mark

Friday 26 April 2024

Trip to Burnham-on-Sea / Highbridge 26-04-2024
















BusFromToServiceOperator



33560Burnham-on-Sea, EsplanadeHighbridge, The George Hotel21First Somerset


Today was the First day of a short break in Somerset. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had his Medication. In the morning Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew had an early dinner. For dinner Matthew had sausage chuips and gravy and a can of Coke. We arrived at the residential unit around 12:30 and we picked up Matthew. Matthew came downstairs and we got in the car and we went to pick up uncle Dave. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. After that we had to return to Blurton to pick up some keys. We got back in the car and we went up Wheildon Road past the former Regent which is now an Indian Restaurant. We ran forwards onto Grove Road and we saw green minibus R482 NDM parked up. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton and at the roundabout we veered right onto Church Street. We turned right onto the A5035 and back to Blurton. Matthew went to the toilet and I picked up the key. We got back into the car and we set off towards Longton to get petrol. We through Blurton onto Beaconsfield Drive and we turned right onto Finstock Avenue. We turned left onto Magdalen Road and left onto the A5035. We ran through Dresden to Longton and we turned left onto the high level A50. We turned right on to Baths Road and right into Tesco. After filling up we set off onto Baths Road and we turned right onto the A50. We ran down to Sideway and we turned left onto the Southbound A500. We continued to Hanchurch and we joined the Southbound M6. As we joined the M6 we saw a brand new London double decker on the hard shoulder broken down. We contnued South down the M6 and we saw French coach Voyages Rouzeau EV-390-XL. We came off the M6 at junction 11A and we headed Eastwards along the A460. We ran to the south of Cannock and we joined the Eastbound A5. We turned right onto the A452 ans we ran down to Brownhills. After dropping something off we headed Westwards out of town along the A4124. We turned left onto the B4154. We joined the Southbound A461 and we ran to the edge of Walsall. We turned left onto the A4148 and we ran to the East of Walsall before joining the A34. Headng down the A34 we saw National Express West Midlands 3302 and 3305 on #51 services. We joined the M6 and almost immediatetly we joined the Southbound M5. We ran Southwards down the M5 to Strensham service where we stopped for a break. Once out of the car we saw taxi minibus EG18 XYD parked up.


EG18 XYD in Stensham services
Also seen was Smiths WA66 OYD.


Smiths WA66 OYD in Stensham services
We went into the building and Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we brought a sausage roll from the stand outside. We sat on a bench and Matthew had the sausage roll. Afterwards we went to the car and Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke. We set off out of the services and we continued Southward. As we travelled Southwards we were passed by Swans K21 SWA.


Swans K21 SWA on the M5
We came off the M5 onto Cribbs Causway and the sat nave diercted us to do a u-turn and rejoin the M5. We came off the M5 and we went via Portishead and Clevedon to avoid traffic and we re-joined the M5. We continued to Sedgmoor Services and we stopped for a break. Matthew went to the toilet and mum picked up a To Good To Go from Spar. Matthew had a choclate bar and some chews. We got back in the car and we continued along the M5. We came off the M5 at junction and we crossed over the A38 and headed into town along the B3140 past a development. We turned right onto Manor Road and right onto Westfield Road. We ran down to the caravan and after picking up the key we went to the caravn to chill for a short while. Around 19:10 we set off on foot along Westfield Road to the end. We turned right onto the B3140 and left onto Sea View Road. We walked onto the Esplanade at the the terminus of the #21 service. We waited for the last bus of the day. A short time later the bus appeared. As it got closer we saw it was First Somerset 33560 on a #21 to Taunton.


First Somerset 33560 in Burnham-on-Sea
We got on the bus and we booked to Highbridge. The lower saloon was empty so Matthew took a picture inside First Somerset 33560.


Inside First Somerset 33560
We went upstairs and the top deck was also empty so Matthew took another picture inside of First Smerset 33560.


Inside First Somerset 33560
We set off Northwards and we turned around at thr roundabout and Headed Southwards down the Esplanade. We passed the pier and we turned left onto Pier Street. We continued onto Old Station Approachand we ran out of town. We continued onto the B3139 and we turnd right onto the A38. We headed Southwards inti Highbrdge and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Somerset 33560 as it continued towards Taunton.


First Somerset 33560 in Highbridge
We set of on foot Northwards up the A38 and we turned left to go into Asda and we met uo with mum. We bough some food and we headed back to the car. Everyone chilled in the car and I went around the corner and bough food from the nearby chip shop. I reurned to the car and we set of off across the A38 onto the B3139. We ran to the East of town and we joined the Northbound B3140. We turned right onto Westfield Road and we retirned to the caravan. In the caravan we did some of the Blog and we wrote an e-mail. Matthew had his medication and we chilled out until bedtime around 00:00... Mark

Thursday 25 April 2024

Trip to Kidsgrove / Sneyd Green 25-04-2024
















BusFromToServiceOperator



63364Fenton, Victoria PlaceHanley BS6AFirst Potteries
67145Hanley BSKidsgrove, Queen Street7First Potteries
63117Kidsgrove, Town HallHanley, stop S33AFirst Potteries
63356Hanley BSFenton, Victoria Place6First Potteries
67156Fenton, Christchurch StreetHanley BS11First Potteries
67146Hanley BSSneyd Green, Kingston Avenue18First Potteries
BN14 JCYSneyd GreenFentonCharterLucky Seven


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus later. 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 Afford rent-a-car DT23 PFF. We went downstairs and we set off onto City Road and we walked up to the roundabout and around the corner onto Victoria Road to wait for the bus to Hanley. Eventually we saw another bus approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was dud First Potteries 63364 on a #6 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63364 in Fenton
We got on the bus and we booked the Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down Victoria Road and towards Joiners Square. At the roundabout we went forwards onto Lichfield Street. 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. As it got closer we saw that it was First Potteries 67145 on a #7 to Kidsgrove.


First Potteries 67145 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 and we continued to Smallthorne roundabouts and we continued forwards onto High Lane. At the end of High Lane the end we turned left onto the A527 where we saw Lucky Seven YC20 EBL. 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. We continued along Market Street and we went to Dougie Mac charity shop. Matthew brought a can of Coke and a couple of chocolate bars. When we had finished we went out and Matthew decided he needed the toilet. There was a pub next door so we visited the pub. Matthew used the toilet and then we brought a glass of Coke. After Matthew had finished his drink we went outside to wait for the next bus back to Hanley. We walked back onto Market Street and we turned left onto Attwood Street and we turned left onto Liverpool Road and up to the bus stop. A short time later the bus appeared. It was First Potteries 63117 on a #3A to Hanley.


First Potteries 63117 in Kidsgrove
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley. As the bus was empty Matthew took a picture inside First Potteries 63117 before we sat down.


Inside First Potteries 63117
We set off along the A50. We ran up the hill into Goldenhill and then forwards through Sandyford past the new retail park into Tunstall. We ran down the High Street. We continued down the High Street and we ran past the former Co-operative bank. 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 got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked along Stafford Street and we went to The Little Dessert Shop. For afters Matthew had a red velvet cheesecake with custard. when we had finished we walked along Stafford Street and we continued past the town hall through to the bus station. We went in the bus station and we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63356 on a #6 to Coalville.


First Potteries 63356 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 out of the bus station onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We turned left onto the ring road and we turned right onto Lichfield Street and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout onto Victoria Road. and we ran up the hill into Fenton. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off on foot up Victoria Road and we went sharp right onto City Road. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and back to his room. Matthew used his computer and watched television in his room. We went downstairs and we set off We walked onto Temple Street and left onto Christchurch Street. We onto City Road. We crossed over at the crossing and we headed to the stop outside the shops. We waited for a bus towards Hanley. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was dud First Potteries 67156 on a #11 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67156 in Fenton
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road. As we ran up onto King Street we passed the site of the new Burger King being built. We turned right onto the A50 link road. We turned left at the roundabout and we joined the Eastbound A50. We came of the A50 at Longton where we came off onto baths Road. In Longton Interchange. We turned right onto 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. 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 got off the bus. As it got closer we saw that it was dud First Potteries 67146 on a #18 to Leek.


First Potteries 67146 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Sneyd Green before we sat down. We set off out of the bus station onto john Street and we ran down the hill to Bethesda Street. We ran past the museum and we ran forwards onto Marsh Street. We turned right onto Trinity street and at the top of the hill we turned left onto Stafford Street. We ran forwards onto Quadrant Road and we went across the ring road along Town Road. We ran forwards onto the A5272 and into Sneyd Green. We turned right onto Milton Road and we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over Milton Road and we turned right onto Noblett Road and we turned right onto Ralph Drive and we saw Travel Express HF64 AJU. We headed into The Indi Club and Matthew went to the toilet whilst I ordered some food. Matthew had chicken and chips and followed by red velvet cake and ice cream washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished we went outside and we crossed the road to catch a taxi towards Fenton. Whilst we waited we saw white minibus LC55 JXX. Matthew did his weekly shop and we saw it was Lucky Seven BN14 JCY. We set off along Ralph Drive and we turned left onto Milton Road past the Sneyd Arms pub which is now being worked on. We turned We veered left onto the A5272 and we continued into Birches Head. We ran forwards onto Town Road and we joined the clockwise ring road. We turned left onto Lichfield Street and over the ring road. We ran down to joiners Square and we went over the roundabout onto Victoria Road past Adsa and the B&M. We turned right onto Manor Street and we crossed over City Road and we ran along Christchurch Street. We got up and got off. We walked around the corner onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and back to his room. Matthew used his computer and watched television 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.

Wednesday 24 April 2024

Trip to Burslem / Newcastle 24-04-2024
















BusFromToServiceOperator



63346Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS11First 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 67153 a on the #23 to Hanley. Later on we went downstairs We set of on foot onto City Road and we crossed over onto Manor Street. At the end of the street we turned left onto Victoria Road. In Aldi Matthew picked up his weekly shop. After he had done his shopping we went to Newcastle in a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off onto Victoria Road and we ran down to joiners Square. We crossed over the roundabout and we ran forwards onto Lichfield Street. We ran up to the ring road and we ran anti-clockwise around Hanley. We turned right onto the A50 and we ran Northwards through Cobridge into Burslem and we decided to go into Lidl. We turned right onto Federation Road. We got out of the taxi and we set off onto Federation Road and we turned right onto the A50 and we saw First Potteries 63111 on a #3 to Crewe. We turned right onto Market Place and went to Wrights Pies and Matthew had a can of Coke and a millionaires shortbread. We walked to the end of Market Place. Matthew ate a sausage roll and we drank the can of Coke. When we had finished we walked back along Market Place. After we had finished in the pub we returned to the car to go back to Fenton. We set off along Wedgwood Street and we turned left onto Moorland Road. At Smallthorne rounsabout we went right onto the A5272 up to Sneyd Green and we ran southwards to the edge of Hanley. We ran clockwise around the ring road and we turned left onto Lichfield Street. We ran down to Joiners square and we went right onto the A52. We ran into Stoke 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 to his room to chill out and watch buses before going out later on. We saw Copeland's Tours MIB 536. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road. We stood at the bus stop outside the flats and we waited for a bus to Stoke. At the Afford garage we saw Afford rent-a-car MJ71 DFZ parked up.


Afford rent-a-car MJ71 DFZ in Fenton
The traffic was unusually busy and the bus was a little late. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. It was First Potteries 63346 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 63346 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 along Church Street. After a brief stop in Stoke we continued along church Street and forwards onto Hartshill Road and we saw blue minibus V604 MBL. 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. A short time later we saw First Potteries 63366 on a #99 to Chell Heath.


First Potteries 63366 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 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 in the soft play area. When we had finished we said goodbye and we went to Fenton in a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off along Stanier Road and we turned left onto John O'Gaunt's Road. We turned left onto the B5044. We turned left onto the A525 and left onto the Northbound A34. We turned right onto 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. Wand right into Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street the Queen Elizabeth II Court. We continued back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. He also ate the a can of Irn Bru and a golden crunch creams. 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.