Trip to Newcastle / Stoke 24-07-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67172	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	11X	First Potteries
63146	Newcastle BS	Hanley BS	39A	First Potteries
67151	Hanley BS	Stoke, stop Q	25	First Potteries
63118	Hanley BS	Fenton, Victoria Place	6	First 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 we saw First Potteries 63360 on a #11 to Hanley. Matthew got ready to go to Newcastle. Whilst getting ready we saw Stafford & District Community Link DK05 ERU heading towards Stoke. When it was time to go out we went downstairs and onto Temple Street. We turned cut through onto City Road and we headed towards the bus stop. On the way we saw Afford rent-a-car FE25 XJF parked up at their garage.

Afford rent-a-car FE25 XJF 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 67172 on a #11X 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. Once off the bus Matthew got a picture of First Potteries 67172 before it returned towards Hanley on a #11 service.

First Potteries 67172 in Newcastle bus station

We set off onto Hassell Street and we turned right onto High Street and we visited a cash machine. We turned left into Church Street and Matthew visited the doctor. Afterwards we walked back up to Church Street. We set off along High Street and we visited Poundland. Matthew brought a bottle of Coke. We continued along High Street and we sat on a drink the bottle of coke. When we had finished we walked back along Merrial Street and we visited Oakland Recruitment. Afterwards we cut through onto Ironmarket and down Castle Walk and back to the bus station. Once at the bus station we waited for a bus back towards Longton. A few minutes later we saw D&G Bus 112 on a #104 to Hanley.

D&G Bus 112 in Newcastle bus station

A short time later we saw First Potteries 63172 on a #39 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63172 in Newcastle bus station

A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63146 on a #39A to Butt Lane.

First Potteries 63146 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down near to the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto Barracks Road. We crossed the Jubilee Roundabout and onto the A53. We ran into Basford and over the A500. We ran down into Etruria and over the A500. We continued along the A53 and we turned left onto Forge Lane. We turned left onto Shelton Boulevard and we turned right onto Etruria Valeey Link Road and we ran out along the Lane and we crossed over the canal before we returned back into Etruria along festival Way. We crossed under the A53 onto Etruria Road. We turned right onto the ring road and we ran around anti-clockwise to Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we ran up the hill to the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew visited the toilet. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67151 on a #25 to Keele.

First Potteries 67151 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 over the roundabout we turned right onto the A52 and we ran towards Stoke. By the railway station we ran alongside the railway line before turning right onto City Road. We crossed over the A500 and we ran into Stoke town centre along Church Street where we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over Church Street and we walked around the corner onto Campbell Place and we walked up to Sainsbury's. Matthew did his weekly shop and we returned to Fenton in a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off along London Road and forwards onto Campbell place. We followed the one-way system to the left onto Church Street and we veered left onto Liverpool Road. We veered right onto Elanora street and we followed the road to the right onto Copeland Street. We ran forwards onto Glebe Street and we followed the one way-system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500 and we ran forwards onto City Road. We went under the railway line and we ran up City Road into Fenton. We turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. We went downstair and we got in a Autocabs taxi. 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 crossed over City Road onto Manor Street and we ran to the end. We turned left onto Victoria Road and we ran down to Joiners Square and we crossed over the roundabout onto Lichfield Street and we carried on up Lichfield Street and we turned into the the stop outside the bus station. A short time later the bus appeared. We saw it was First Potteries 63118 on a #6 to Coalville. 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 and we turned left onto Glebedale Road and we continued onto Gimson Street. We continued onto Masterson Street and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We went across the spare ground onto Willowdale Avenue and onto Whieldon Road and into uncle Dave's. For tea Matthew had chicken potatoes and carrots with gravy followed by a slice of chocolate cake. Later on he had a drink of Fanta orange and a few digestive biscuits. Uncle Dave also did his DJ set. A couple of hours later staff came to escort Matthew back home. We set off onto Whieldon Road and we turned onto Willowdale Avenue and we crossed the spare ground and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right 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.

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 23-07-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67142	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Hanley BS	23	First Potteries
35940	Hanley BS	Newcastle BS	25	First Potteries
63362	Newcastle BS	Fenton, Smithpool Road	11X	First Potteries
44511	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	11	First 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 Belper he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to Bentilee and we saw First Potteries 67176 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 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 First Potteries 63350. 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 Matthew had burger fries & cup of coke from MacDonalds followed by a trifle. Matthew went to his room and chilled out. 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 we walked onto City Road. On the way to the bus stop we saw Afford Rent-A-Car MJ22 HGP. We stopped at the bus stop and we waited for a bus towards Newcastle. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67142 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67142 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we joined the A52 and ran under the railway line. After crossing over the A500 we ran into Stoke town centre along Church Street. We turned right onto Shelton Old Road. We ran forwards onto Stoke Road. We ran under the railway line and up through Shelton. We ran up Broad Street and we turned right onto the anti-clockwise ring road. We turned left onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street. We climbed the hill and up into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew visited the toilet. We went to the shop in the bus station and Matthew had toffee crisp. We waited for a bus back to Fenton. A short time later we saw First Potteries 63364 on a #7A to Biddulph. A short time later we saw a bus come on stand. It was First Potteries 35940 on a #25 to Keele.

First Potteries 35940 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 over the roundabout we turned right onto the A52 and we ran towards Stoke. By the railway station we ran alongside the railway line before turning right onto City Road. We crossed over the A500 and we ran into Stoke centre along Church Street. We went out of the other side of Stoke and up Hartshill Road into Hartshill. We turned left into The Avenue and we ran down to Hilton Road and we turned right into the hospital where we saw ABC Supreme KP25 EHC. We ran through the hospital and we turned right onto the A34. We ran up to Newcastle and forwards onto Barracks Road at the roundabout. We entered the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew went to the toilet. We walked out of the bus station onto Castle Walk and we stopped at the Coffee House. Matthew brought a jam filled shortbread biscuit. Matthew went to the toilet and we continuing along Castle Walk and into the bus station. As it got closer we saw that it was First Potteries 63362 on a #11X to Hanley.

First Potteries 63362 in Newcastle 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 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 and under the railway line. We ran up City Road and we got up and got off the bus by the the swimming baths turn. We crossed over City Road and we walked. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew took a can of Irn Bru. Before tea We went downstairs out for a walk to fetch his tea. we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We ordered sausages and chips gravy and then we walked back along Smithpool Road and onto and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. Matthew went into the living room to have tea. Matthew ate his sausages and chips gravy followed by a Butterfly cake. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Newcastle. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 44511 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 44511 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. 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. Once off the bus we set off onto Castle Walk and we stopped at Heron Foods. We bought a cake and we set off along Castle Walk and we went past the former Poundland. We turned right into Ironmarket and we turned left onto High Street and we past the fromer Laura Ashley. We crossed over and we went to the cinema. Matthew had a cup of Coke. He went to the cinema to watch A Superman. After the film Matthew went to the toilet. We walked out of the cinema onto the High Street and we got a Lucky Seven taxi back to Fenton. When we got in taxi. We set off onto High Street and we turned left onto Southbound A34 and we joined the Northbound A500 and we ran up to Sideway. We joined the Eastbound A50 and we ran down to Heron Cross. We cam off and went along the Blurton Road. We went through the traffic lights onto Heron Street. We carried on forwards onto Station Bridge Road we turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto Masterson Street and 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 can of Cherry Coke. 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.

Trip to Hanley / Trentham 22-07-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67173	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Stoke, stop P	11X	First Potteries
35690	Stoke, stop N	Stoke, Hancock Street	25	First Potteries
35949	Hanley BS	Trentham, Longton Road	101	First Potteries
35688	Trentham, Poachers Cottage PH	Hanley BS	101	First Potteries
67150	Hanley BS	Fenton, Victoria Place	6A	First 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. We saw Voyager Travel LG69 CCA. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. In the distance we saw Temple Street church minibus KD23 DHC. We carried on along Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road. We walked down to the bus stop outside the flats. At the Afford garage we saw Afford rent-a-car CF74 DHM parked up. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67173 on a #11X to Newcastle. We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street. We got off the bus and we crossed obver the road to the stop opposite to wait for a #25 to Hanley. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As soon as it cam into view we knew it was First Potteries 35690 on a #25 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley. before we sat down. The bus set off out of Stoke town centre and across the A500. We crossed under the railway line before turning left onto the A52 and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked up to the A52 and we saw First Potteries 35684 on a #501 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35684 in Stoke

Once off the bus we walked up to the A52 and we turned left onto Mawson Grove and we went into Hanley Park. We went to the pavillion and the cafe was closed! We returned to The Parkway and we turned right onto Hardings Road and we stopped at the bus stop on Regent Road. We stopped at the Premier and Matthew had a viennetta and can of Bar Bubblegum. We walked down Regent Road and we turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we turned right the ring road. we turned into the the stop outside the bus station. Whilst we waited for a bus back to Fenton and Matthew visited the toilet. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was First Potteries 35949 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 35949 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Trentham Gardens and sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we ran down John Street and right onto Bethesda Street. We ran down Broad Street and we crossed the ring road onto Snow Hill and at the roundabout we turned Shelton New Road. Due to roadwork we went the wrong way around the one-way system. We ran over the canal and railway line. We ran through the cross road up to Hartshill and at the roundabout we ran into Newcastle down George Street. We joined the one-way system and at the next roundabout we turned left onto Barracks Road. We turned right into the bus station. After a brief stop we Continued onto Barracks Road and forwards onto the Southbound A34. We ran past the hospital into Trent Vale and under the A500 into Hanford. We continued into Trentham and we got up and got off the bus near to Trentham Garden. Once off the bus we crossed over the A34 and we went into the gardens and we walked to the North West corner and we stopped to Frankie & Benny's. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards when he came back we ordered some food. Matthew had a classic cheeseburger and fries washed down with a glass of Coke followed by a apple & blueberry pie and ice cream. When we had finished around the North end of the lake and Matthew stopped to got to the toilet. later on we walked through the retail village and 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 Hanley. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35688 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35688 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 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. We waited for a bus back to Fenton. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we waited for a bus back to Fenton. Whilst we waited we saw D&G Bus 169 on layover. A short time later the bus arrived on stand. It was First Potteries 67150 on a #6A to Blythe Bridge.

First Potteries 67150 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 to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Smithpool Road. We crossed over the railway line and we walked down to the entrance of the park. For dinner Matthew had 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 Grove Road. We crossed over the Whieldon Road and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto City Road and we crossed over onto Manor Street for We stopped at the Fenton Community Hall and Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we had a drink of Coke. Matthew had a burger and chips. After we had finished we returned to the residential unit. We walked along Manor Street and we crossed over City Road and we turned right onto onto Temple Street and we returned to the residential unit. We went upstairs and back into his room. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. He watched television and used his computer. Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Etruria / Wolstanton 21-07-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
NX13 XDJ	Fenton	Newcastle	Charter	Shelton Care Group
NX13 XDJ	Newcastle	Fenton	Charter	Shelton Care Group

Today Matthew was going back to the residential unit, but not before he had been out for dinner and to get his weekly shopping. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. Matthew got up just after 10:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We got ready and we went out just before 12:00. We set off to Newcastle to pick up our friend. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and onto the A5035. We continued to Trentham and we turned right onto the A34 and we saw First Potteries 35943 on the #101 to Stafford. We ran through Hanford and we crossed the A500 and we continued through Trent Vale and into Newcastle. We turned right onto Barracks Road. We turned left onto Ryecroft and stopped to pick up our friend. After we picked him up We crossed over Ryecroft we ran forwards onto the A53. We ran around one-way system and onto the A52. We ran up to Hartshill and we ran forwards onto Shelton New Road. We turned right onto Garner Street and we stopped at the food truck. Matthew had a cumberland ring with bacon and egg washed down with can of Coke. When we had finished Matthew had a hug off Baz and we set of to the shop. We ran along Garner Street to Etruria and we turned left onto the A53. We veered left onto Forge Lane and we ran forwards onto Shelton Boulevard and we turned left onto the Etruria Valley Link Road. We went under the A500 and we turned left onto the retail park and we saw blue minibus AY69 XAW parked up.

AY69 XAW in Wolstanton

We did Matthew's weekly shopping and before we went back to the car we saw First Potteries 67156 on a #501 circular service.

First Potteries 67156 in Wolstanton

We set off through the retail park and we turned left onto the A527. We ran to the top of the hill and we turned left to follow the A527 into Newcastle. We turned right onto Ryecroft and we pulled up. We dropped off our friend. We set off onto Ryecroft and we turned right onto Barracks Road and we saw First Potteries 63346 on a #99 to Chell Heath. We turned keft onto the Southbound A34 we ran down to Trent Vale and under the A500 into Hanford. We ran into Trentham and at the roundabout we turned left onto the A5035. We ran into Blurton and we got back to home just after 14:30. Matthew had an ice cream and a can of Cherry Coke. Just after 16:00 we set off towards Fenton. We set off through Burton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Street and left onto Blurton Road. We went through the traffic lights onto Heron Steeet. We carried on forwards onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street and we saw City Centre Central BK58 DZZ. We turned left onto Masterson Street and 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. For tea Matthew had pasta and tuna followed by a Bakewell tart. Matthew chilled in hos room for a while before we went out. Later on we went downstairs and we saw it was Shelton Care Group NX13 XDJ. We got on the bus and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Christchurch Street. and left onto City Road. We ran down the hill onto the A52 and we went under the railway line. We crossed over the A500 and we ran into Stoke and on the one way system. We followed the road onto Lonsdale Street and right onto Fleming Street. We turned right onto Campbell Place and we followed the road around back onto Church Street. We ran up the hill into Hartshill and edge the edge of Newcastle we ran onto George Street. We went forwards onto the ring road and we crossed the roundabout onto Ironmarket. We parked up and and we went to the pub. For dessert he had chocolate fudge cake with ice cream. When we had finished we set off along Ironmarket to the High Street. We turned left onto Hassell Street and we walked past the bus station. We walked onto the ring road and past the new council building and into the park. After we had finished in the park we returned to the minibus. We returned to Fenton in Shelton Care Group NX13 XDJ. We got on the bus and we set off onto the roundabout and we turned right onto barracks Road. We joined the Southbound A34 and we ran down to Trent Vale. We turned left onto Harpfields Road and we went forwards onto Keelings Drive. We turned left onto London Road and we ran through Boothen into Stoke. We ran around the one-way system and onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500 and under the railway line into Fenton. We ran up City Road and we turned right into Smithpool Road and left into Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went back to the room and went on his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Sutton Coldfield / Chelmsley Wood 19-07-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
4408	Tamworth bus interchange	Sutton Coldfield, Stop SH	110	Arriva Midlands
1900	Sutton Coldfield, Stop SH	Erdington, Fire Station	66	NX West Midlands
752	Erdington, Fire Station	Chelmsley Interchange	96	NX West Midlands
4888	Chelmsley Interchange	Castle Bromwich, Manor Park Road	94	NX West Midlands
755	Castle Bromwich, Manor Park Road	Erdington, Fire Station	96	NX West Midlands
E288	Eardington, Wilton Road	Falcon Lodge, Churchill Parade	X4	NX West Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Sutton Coldfield. No research was done other than to check the weather, which was for rain clearing up by mid afternoon. Matthew woke up around 08:00 and had his medication. He got up around 10:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We got ready to go out and we left arounbd 11:50. We set off thr Blurton 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. We turned right onto City Road so that we could joined the Southbound A500. We joined the Southbound A500 and we ran Southwards through Hanford down to the M6. We joined the Southbound M6 and we headed through Staffordshire. As we travelled down the M6 we saw an unidentified Alfa coach, an undentified Nash's coach and Walsall Wedding Lighting LJ57 ???. We came off the M6 at junction 12 and we joined the Eastbound A5. We went for a couple of miles before stopping at the Truckers Rest truck stop. We sat down and mum ordered dinner for us. For dinner Matthew had a full English breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. Afterwards Matthew went to the toilet. We order cake and custard for Matthew which he took to have later on. In the car park we saw white minibus FJ67 FPF parked up.

FJ67 FPF in Four Crosses

We set off out of the car park onto the A5 and we headed Eastwards. We ran to the South of Cannock and through Brownhills past the former Rising Sun pub. We Crossed the A38 we ran through the HS2 roadworks. We came off the A5 and we ran Northwards past the retail park onto the A51. We turned right onto Lichfield Street and we headed into the town centre. We turned left onto Aldergate and we turned right into the car park. After parking up we said goodbye to mum and we walked across the car to the bus station. We saw Arriva Midlands 3806 on a #65 to Nuneaton. Matthew had already indicated that he wanted to head into the West Midlands. We looked on stand and we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4408 on a #110 to Birmingham.

Arriva Midlands 4408 in Tamworth bus interchange

We got on the bus and we booked singles to Sutton Coldfield at £3 each before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off out of the interchange before turning right to head towards Lichfield. Just after the fire station we turned left to go down towards ventura Park. We turned left following the Eastbound A51 before turning right onto the A4091. We crossed under the A5 and then we crossed the canal. At Fazeley we turned right for the run down to Mile Oak. At Mile Oak we turned left onto the A453. We carried on South over the A38 at the Bassetts Pole roundabout and we carried on into town. When we got to Sutton Coldfeld the bus pull into the main thoroughfare were all the buses stop on The Lower Parade. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 4408 before it carried on towards Birmingham.

Arriva Midlands 4408 in Sutton Coldfield

Matthew headed into town and we stopped at a cake shop. Matthew had a slice of Oreo Cheesecake and a small bottle of Coke. Afterwards Matthew went to the toilet. When we had finished we headed outside and back up the road to the bus stops. We saw a bus parked up between duties. As we got closer we saw it was National Express West Midlands 1900 on a #66 to Birmingham.

NX West Midlands 1900 in Sutton Coldfield

We got on the bus and we booked to nBus group ticket at £9.50. As the bus was empty Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 1900 before we sat down.

Inside NX West Midlands 1900

We set off along Lower Parade and we turned left onto South Parade past fromer pub. We turned right onto the A5127 and we ran up to Boldmere. We turned right onto the A453 and we turned right the B4142. We crossed the Boldmere and we turned right onto the A452. We ran through Short Heath and we turned left onto Court Lane and we turned left onto Goosemoor Lane and we re-joined the B4142. We ran around to the B4531 and into Erdington and we continued down through Edwards Road. As we were travelling towards Erdington, I had worked out that we were going to be passing a bus towards Chelmsley Wood. Which has a small bus station and a shopping centre. I thought it would be a good place to take Matthew. We turned right onto Orphanage Road and we got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of National Experss West Midlands 1900 before it carried on towards Birmingham.

NX West Midlands 1900 in Erdington

We crossed the road and within a few seconds the bus to Chelmsley Wood appeared. As it got closer we saw it was National Express West Midlands 752 on a #96 to Chelmsley Wood.

NX West Midlands 752 in Erdington

We got on the bus and we placed flashed the nBus group ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off back down Orphanage Road and we turned right onto Holly Lane. We ran forwards onto the A38 and we turned right onto Wood Lane. We turned left onto Wingfoot Way and we crossed a roundabout and then we took the next left into Fort Shopping Centre. We left the bus station area and we crossed turned right onto A47 and through Bromford and we turned right onto the A452. We ran for quite a distance out of town and we crossed over the M6. We continued Eastwards along the B4147 and we ran through Buckland End and we turned right onto Heathland Avenue. We turned left onto Brook Meadow Road and we turned right onto Heath Way and we turned left onto Brownfield Road. We turned left onto Timberley Lane and we turned right onto the B4114. We turned left onto Hurst Lane North and Smith’s Wood. We turned right onto Green Lane and we turned left onto Lanchester Way. We turned right onto Auckland Drive and we turned left onto Kingfisher Way. We went forwards onto Burtons Way and we turned right onto Windward Way and we turned left onto Buckingham Road. We turned left onto the B4114 and we ran through Kingshurst, Bacon’s End and Chelmsley Wood. We re-joined the B5074. We turned right onto the chelmsley interchange and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of National Experss West Midlands 752 returned to Kingstanding.

NX West Midlands 752 in Chelmsley Interchange

Also on layover in the bus station was National Express West Midlands 4891.

NX West Midlands 4891 in Chelmsley Interchange

Once off the bus we headed into the shopping centre. We went into Home Bargains and we bought some drinks and chocolate. We came out and sat outside. Matthew had a can of Dr Pepper and a single Twirl. As we walkd back towards the bus station Matthew stopped at the ice cream van and had an ice cream. He also indicated that he needed the toilet so we went into Subway. I bought a bottle of Coke for later and Matthew used the toilet. We went to the bus stop and we saw National Express West Midlands 1828 on a #71 to Sutton Coldfield.

NX West Midlands 1828 in Chelmsley Interchange

Another bus came into the bus station which we worked out we could do part way back towards Sutton Coldfield. We saw it was all over Party Rings advertiser National Express West Midlands 4888 which was on layover in between runs on the #94 to Birmingham.

NX West Midlands 4888 in Chelmsley Interchange

A lady who had seen Matthew waiting for the bus decided to give Matthew a Cabdbury's Caramel Ice Cream. Whilst we waited for the bus to be readied for service we saw National Express West Midlands 4932.

NX West Midlands 4932 in Chelmsley Interchange

When the bus was ready for service we got on the bus and we flashed the nBus ticket to the driver. The lower saloon was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4888.

Inside NX West Midlands 4888

The top deck was also empty so Matthew took another picture inside National Express West Midlands 4888.

Inside NX West Midlands 4888

After a few minutes we set off along Chelmsley Circle and we turned left onto Chelmsley Road. We did a u-turn at the roundabout and we headed Eastwards alonf Chelmsley Road. We turned left onto Moorend Avenue and we headed Northards. At the roundabout we veered left onto the the B4114. We turned right onto Birmingham Road and we turned left onto Auckland Drive. We continued onto Green Lane and we turned left onto Hurst Lane North. We turned right to re-join the B4114 and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 4888 as it continued towards Birmingham.

NX West Midlands 4888 in Castle Bromwich

Once off the bus we only had a couple of minutes to wait for the bus to Erdington. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was National Express West Midlands 755 on a #96 to Kingstanding.

NX West Midlands 755 in Castle Bromwich

We got on the bus and we placed flashed the nBus group ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off the B4114 and we turned left onto Timberley Lane. We turned right onto Brownfield Road and right onto Heath Way. We turned left onto Brook Meadow Road and right onto Buckland End. We crossed over the roundabout Heathland Avenue and e re-joined the Westbound B4114. We ran forwards onto the B4147 and we joined the Northbound A452. We went under the M6 and over the railway line and we turned left onto the A47. We ran past the former Fort Dunlop which has been converted into a Travelodge. We crossed the roundabout onto the Fort retail park and we stopped at the bus stop after the bus driver persuaded the cars that were parked in the bus stop to leave! We left the reatila park and we turned left onto Wingfoot Way. We turned right onto Wood Lane and left onto Holly Lane. We turned right onto the A38 and left onto Kingsbury Road. We turned right onto Holly Lane and we headed Northwards. We ran to the roundabout and we turned left onto Orphanage Road. We ran into Erdington and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 755 before it continued to Kingstanding.

NX West Midlands 755 in Erdington

Once off the bus Matthew indicated that he wanted to go to the toilet and then get a drink. We hadn't been in a pub all day so it was bound to happen. We walked forwards onto High Street and we turned right onto Wilton Road. We headed into a pub and Matthew used the toilet. We went to the bat and Matthew had a glass of Coke. We sat down near to the pool table and we soaked in the atmosphere of the pub. When we had finished our drinks we went outside and we met up with uncle Dave. We crossed over Sutton New Road and we waited for a bus Northwards. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was National Express West Midlands E288 on a X4 to Falcon Lodge.

NX West Midlands E288 in Erdington

We got on the bus and we placed flashed the nBus group ticket to the driver for the final time today before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus off Northwards up Sutton New Road. We decided to do this to Falcon Lodge and get mum to come and meet us as we knew there was a chip shop near to the bus terminus as we had accidentally found it back in March 2025. We ran Northwards up the A5127 through Wylde Green and Driffold and we headed into Sutton Coldfield. We ran clockwise around the town on the one-way system and we turned right into South Parade. We followed the road onto Lower Parade and we had a brief stop in Surron Coldfield. We continued Northwards and we turned right onto the one-way system and we turned left onto Riland Road. We continued onto Rectory Road and we headed out of town. We turned right onto the B4148 and we turned left onto Reddicap Heath Road. We turned left onto Fairfax Road and we ran forwards onto Falcon Lodge Crescent. We ran aroud the housing estate and we turned right onto Churchill Road. We turned right onto Carhampton Road and we reached the terminus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands E288 before it returned on a X4 to Birmingham.

NX West Midlands E288 in Falcon Lodge

We walked away from the bus stop and we waited for mum to arrive. We waited for a few minutes and mum appeared in the car. Matthew had sausage and chips washed down with some Cherry Coke. When I had finished eating we set off along Churchill Road and we turned right onto Carhampton Road. We turned right onto Rectory Road and left onto Lindridge Road. We turned right onto the B4148 and right onto the A453. We crossed over the M6 toll and at Bassett's Pole roundabout we turned left onto the Northbound A38. We ran North for a few miles and at the roundabout we ran forwards onto London Road. On the edge of Lichfield we turned left onto the A461 and right onto the A5127. We ran forwards onto the A51 and we ran out of Lichfield. We ran through Longdon and Brereton Cross and we ran to the East of Rugeley. We ran through the roadworks where they are constructing a new link road. We continued out of town through Wolseley Bridge and Great Haywood. We continued through Weston and Sandon and we joind the A34 South of Stone. We ran to the West of Stone and past Darlaston Roundabout and the new petrol station. We continued through Titensor and Trentham and we turned left onto the A5035. We ran over the canal and railway line into Blurton and we got back just after 20:00. Matthew had his medication and bottle of Coke. I took uncle Dave home and Matthew uploaded his pictures to the computer. He also ate the chocolate cake and custard from the Truckers Rest. Later on we did the Blog and Matthew had a ice lolly. We did an e-mail and we went to bed just after 00:00... Mark.

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 18-07-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
35944	Hanley BS	Fenton, Victoria Place	6	First Potteries
6012	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	1A	D&G Bus
35940	Newcastle BS	Newcastle, O/s Cherry Tree PH	101	First Potteries

Today Matthew was going to Blurton and going to see grandma, but first he was going out on the bus. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. Matthew got up and had crumpets and orange juice for breakfast. Matthew chilled in his room and saw white minibus . In the morning Matthew had a taxi to Hanley. We went downstairs and we cut through onto City Road. We saw Afford rent-a-car BD24 NNC parked up in their garage.

Afford rent-a-car BD24 NNC in Fenton

We got in the taxi and we set off along City Road. We ran towards Stoke and we turned right onto the A52. We ran past the railway station and university and we turned left onto Cauldon Road. We turned right onto Boughey Road and right onto Ridgway Road. We ran forwards onto The Parkway and we stopped at Hanley park. We went into the park and we saw Central Cheshire Buddy PO22 MUE parked up.

Central Cheshire Buddy PO22 MUE in Hanley

Once in the park we headed to the playground and Matthew used the equipment. When we had finished we headed onto Regent Road and we turned left onto Lichfield Road. We stopped at the chip shop and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with can of Coke. When we we had finished we crossed over the ring road and Lichfield Street and we headed into the bus station. We waited for a bus towards Fenton. We saw First Potteries 67146 on a #25 to Keele.

First Potteries 67146 in Hanley bus station

A short time later we saw a a bus come on statnd. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35944 on a #6 to Parkhall.

First Potteries 35944 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 on the road at the back of Victoria Road. We went sharp right onto City Road. We turned left onto Glebedale Road and we walked along Baker Street. We turned right onto Christchurch Street. We returned onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. When Matthew got back we went upstairs and went up to his room to chill out and use the computer. a short time later we came to pick up Matthew. He came downstairs and we said goodbye to mum. We cut through onto City Road and we headed to the bus stop. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 6012 on a #1A to Wood Lane.

D&G Bus 6012 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. 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 off the bus we had a look around. We saw Leons 241 heading Northwards. A short time later we saw a suitable bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35940 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 35940 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to the hospital before we went upstairs and sitting down. We set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road. Due to roadwork we headed North and did a u-turn at the roundabout. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we got up and got off the bus by the Cherry Tree. We got off the bus and Matthew took a picture of First Potteries 35940 as it continued towards Stafford.

First Potteries 35940 in Newcastle

We crossed over the A34 and we walked up to the hill towards grandma's. On the way we saw white minibus YX02 FTD. We continued up the hill and into grandma's house. At Grandma's Matthew had toast and a can of Irn Bru. When it was time to go we said goodbye to Grandma and we got in the car. We set off just before 18:00 and we ran down Victoria Street. We turned left onto the A34. We continued southwards into Trent Vale past the Greggs. We continued through Trent Vale and we stopped at the pub. We walked into the pub and we sat down at our one our normal tables. Matthew had a brunch with oatcakes followed by toffee sponge pudding with ice cream. Highlights of the bus sightings included First Potteries 35950 on a #101 to Hanley and ABC Supreme KP25 EHB going Northwards. Once we had finished eating we set off We carried on along the A34 through Hanford and into Trentham. We turned left onto the A5035. We crossed over the railway line and into Blurton. We got back around 19:00. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we sorted a few things out. We wrote the Blog and sent a couple of e-mails. We chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark