Friday, 23 January 2026

Trip to Newcastle / Keele 23-01-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



63361Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS11First Potteries
35689Newcastle BSKeele, Sneyd Arms PH25First Potteries
63111Keele, Sneyd Arms PHHanley BS25First Potteries
67153Hanley BSFenton, opp Albert Square23First Potteries
63116Fenton, adj Travers CourtStoke, stop Q11First Potteries
67152Stoke, adj stop TTrent Vale, Rookery Lane21First Potteries
67154Trent Vale, Flash LaneStoke, stop K21First Potteries
6012Stoke, stop AFenton, Smithpool Road1Shelton Care Group


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 Newcastle. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. We walked down to the bus stop outside the flats. We waited for a bus to Hanley. On the way we saw Afford rent-a-car BD24 LPE parked up at their garage. We stood at the bus stop and we waited for a first but to Hanley. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. It was First Potteries 63361 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 63361 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. We set off on foot up Castle Walk and we visited EE. Matthew brought a business solutions. We walked up Castle Walk and we turned right into Ironmarket and we turned left onto Castle Walk and we stopped at the British Heart Foundation. Matthew brought a petrol machinery before continuing along Castle Walk. We returned to the bus station and we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35689 on a #25 to Hanley.


First Potteries 35689 in Newcastle bus station
We got on and booked to Keele before we went upstairs and we sat down. The bus set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road we turned right onto Ryecroft. We veered left onto Merrial Street and after a brief stop we ran forwards onto Church Street. We crossed over the roundabout and we ran forwards onto the A525. We turned right into Orme Road and we saw St Giles And St George's academy MF68 AFJ. We continued along Orme Road before we re-joined the Westbound A525. We climbed the steep hill up to Keele and we turned left into the campus. We turned left onto University Drive we did a u-turn and headed into the campus. At the main roundabout we turned left and we ran around the shops and student union bar. We ran through the campus past the back of the library and out the other side into the village. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we decided to go back to Hanley on the double decker. We let the bus that we had just arrived on go, and we waited for the next bus. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. AS it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63111 on a #25 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down. We set off through the campus We turned right onto University Drive and we ran up to the entrance of the campus before turning right onto the A525. We ran down the hill and we crossed over the roundabout. We went past the scrapyards and we turned left onto Orme Road. We ran through the estate and to the end of the road. We turned left onto the A525 and at the roundabout onto the Southbound A34. We ran down two roundabout and we went left onto Barracks Road. We entered the bus station and we pulled up on stand. After a short while in the bus station the bus set off out onto Barracks Road. We went Southwards on the A34 before turning into the hospital. We trundled through the hospital grounds and ran up to Hartshill Road via Hilton Road and The Avenue. We went down Hartshill Road into Stoke town centre. We went forwards onto Church Street and the bus topped in the town centre. After a brief stop we continued over the A500. We crossed under the railway line before turning left onto the A52 to the left and we ran alongside the railway and onto Station Road. We passed the railway station and we turned right onto Stoke Road and we turned right onto Avenue Road. At the roundabout we turned left onto College Road. We ran up the hill through Shelton and we followed the road to the right onto Cleveland Road and we turned left onto Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road, continuing onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we to the chip shop. We crossed over Lichfield Street and we crossed over the ring road. Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished we headed back to the bus station. We crossed over the ring road and over Lichfield Street and we headed into the bus station. We waited for a bus towards Fenton. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. It was First Potteries 67153 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 67153 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down. We set off onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We crossed over the ring road and we ran down onto Regent Road and forwards onto Cleveland Road. We ran down though Shelton along College Road. We turned right onto Avenue Road and left onto Stoke Road. We ran down the hill and we turned left onto Station Road and past the railway station. We turned right onto Glebe Street and under the railway line an we ran around the one-way system in Stoke and stopped by Stoke Minster. We turned left onto Church Street and we crossed the A500 and we ran under the railway line. After climbing up the hill into Fenton we turned right into Christchurch Street where we got up and got off the bus. We then walked back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. Later on we went out for tea on the bus. We went downstairs and we set off on foot to the bus stop. We walked onto Temple Street and right onto Christchurch Street. We continued up City Road and we saw Afford rent-a-car BK74 AWN outside there yard. We stood at the bus stop outside the flats and we waited for a bus to Hanley. Whilst we waited we saw City Centre Central BX19 HVU. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63116 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 63116 in Fenton
We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street where we got up and got off the bus. We walked around the corner onto Campbell Place to wait for a bus to Trentham. A few minutes later we saw a bus come around the corner. It was First Potteries 67152 on a #21 to Trentham.


First Potteries 67152 in Stoke
We got on the bus and we booked to Trentham before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Campbell Place and forwards onto London Road. We continued through Oakhill and past the former Oakhill pub. We ran into Trent Vale and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw Haberdashers Adams SH73 VFE.


Haberdashers Adams SH73 VFE in Trent Vale
We went into the pub and Matthew found a seat where he could see out of the window. Matthew had Sausage, egg beans and chips with bacon and 2 oatcakes washed down with a glass of Coke. for dessert Matthew had toffee sponge pudding and custard. Whilst we ate highlights of the passing buses included First Potteries 63358 on a #101 to Stafford and Travel Express LK67 FWJ heading Northwards. When he had finished eat Matthew set off onto the A34 and around the corner onto London Road to wait for the bus back towards Stoke. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67154 on a #21 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67154 in Trent Vale
We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along London Road and we ran through Oak Hill past the former Oak Hill pub. We continued through the the West End before running into Stoke Town centre and Campbell Place. We continued around the one-way system onto Church Street and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over the road to catch a #11. We turned right into Church Street to wait for a First bus back up to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 6012 on a #1 to Meir.


D&G Bus 6012 in Stoke
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Church Street out of Stoke and over the A500. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over City Road and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. Later on Matthew had a bath followed by toast for supper. Matthew then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Thursday, 22 January 2026

Trip to Hanley / Kidsgrove 22-01-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67151Fenton, adj Travers CourtHanley BS23First Potteries
63349Hanley BSNewcastle BS38First Potteries
63345Newcastle BSKidsgrove, St Johns RC38First Potteries
67144Kidsgrove, Town HallTunstall, adj stop B103First Potteries
BU54 ALLTunstall, adj stop BSmallthorne, High Lane90Stanton's of Stoke
67175Smallthorne, NettlebankHanley BS7AFirst Potteries
67143Hanley BSFenton, adj Travers Court11First Potteries
67148Fenton, Smithpool RoadBentilee, Wellfield Road11First Potteries
67159Bentilee, Tyson GreenFenton, Victoria Place11First 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. Matthew chilled out in his room until it was time to go out. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Newcastle. We walked down to the bus stop outside the flats. At the Afford garage we saw Afford rent-a-car FE25 XDU parked up. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67151 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down City Road and we joined the A52 to go under the railway line and over the A500. We continued onto Church Street and into the centre of Stoke. After a brief stop we continued around the one-way system onto Elenora Steet and right onto Copeland street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. We went past the railway station and and turned right onto College Road and. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street before we turned right onto John Street. We ran up the hill into the bus station and onto stand. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus and Matthew visited the toilet. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63349 on a #38 to Kidsgrove.


First Potteries 63349 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Festival Park before we sat down. We set off out of the bus station and onto John Street. At the bottom of the road we turned right onto Bethesda Street. We turned left onto Broad Street and then we joined the clockwise ring road. At the end we turned left onto Etruria Road before going under the A53 onto Festival Way. We ran past Waterworld and we turned left onto Forge Lane past a new minibus building by the Brindley Farm pub. We looped under the A53 and we joined the Westbound A53. We crossed over the A500 at Etruria and and we ran up the hill into Basford where we ran down hill to the edge of Newcastle and we got onto the one way system. At the jubilee roundabout we turned left onto Barracks Road before turning right into the bus station. We got up and we got off the bus. We walked out of the bus station onto Castle Walk and we stopped at the Pound Bakery. Matthew brought a sausage roll before continuing along Castle Walk. We stopped at the benches at the end to eat a jam filled shortbread biscuit and drink the can of Irn Bru. Afterwards we waited for a bus to Hartshill. After a short while we saw First Potteries 35687 on a #25 to Keele.


First Potteries 35687 in Newcastle bus station
A few minutes later a bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63345 on a #38 to Kidsgrove.


First Potteries 63345 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Talke Pits before sitting down towards the back of the bus. set of out of the bus station onto Barracks Road and at the roundabout we turned left onto Ryecroft. At the roundabout we turned right onto the Northbound A34. We ran Northwards past the bus garage and we ran through Milehouse. We ran Northwards to the McDonald roundabout and we turned left onto Wolstanton Road. At the roundabout we turned right onto Chesterton High Street. As we turned onto Crackley Bank and we ran through Crackley and Red Street. We crossed over the A500 and we veered left onto Talke High Street. We turned right somewhere and left onto Chester Road. We re-joined the road and we ran forwards onto Coalpit Hill. We ran forwards onto the A34 and up towards somewhere where we turned right onto the B5371. We turned right onto Mitchell Avenue and we turned left onto Lower Ash Road. We turned right onto First Avenue and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked around the corner onto the B5371. As we turned into the A50 and we went into the Jessie's Coffee Shop. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards he had sausage and cheese oatcake washed down with a can of Coke. Once we had finished in the Jessie's Coffee Shop we walked back onto the A50 and across to the bus stop where we waited for a #3A to Hanley. A short time later the bus appeared. It was First Potteries 67144 on a #103 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down. We set off along the A50. We ran up the hill into Goldenhill and then forwards through Sandyford past the retail park into Tunstall. We ran down the High Street. We continued down the High Street and at the top of the Road we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked down the Tower Square and passing the former pub on the corner. After we had finished eating we went next door Wrights shop we and Matthew bought some boots. We walked along and we set off onto onto the Tower Square and we walked onto High Street and we walked to the bus stop. We waited for a bus towards Smallthorne. A short time later we saw the bus come around the corner. It was First Potteries BU54 ALL on a #90 to Ball Green. We got on the bus and we booked to Smallthorne before we sat down. We set off along the High Street and we turned sharp right onto Scotia Road and left into the Boulevard. We ran down the hill past the park and we went forwards onto Queens Avenue and we turned right onto Thornley Road. We turned left onto Haywood Road and we entered the hospital. We turned right onto onto the A5272 and we carried on into Smallthorne and then turned left onto Ford Green Road and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked around the corner onto the A5272 to wait for the bus at the bus stop. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was dud First Potteries 67175 on a #7A to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down. We set off down the A5272 through Sneyd Green. We ran into Hanley and we ran into town along Town Road and we crossed over the ring road. We turned right onto Quadrant Road and we went under the Intu Potteries shopping centre. We ran forwards onto Stafford Street and we passed the town hall. We ran along Bagnall Street and into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67143 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 67143 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down. We set off out of the bus station onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We crossed over the ring road and left onto Lichfield Street and we turned right onto Birch Terrace. We followed the road around onto Charles Street and we turned right onto Old Hall Street. We crossed over the ring road onto Bucknall New Road. We ran down the hill through Limekiln lights. we turned right onto Dividy Road. We turned left onto Beverley Drive and right onto Dawlish Drive. We ran through the estate and back onto the A5272. We ran up to Adderley Green. At the roundabout we turned right onto Anchor Road onto Market Street. We continued along the one-way system onto Commerce Street and right onto The Strand. After a brief stop we ran down the Strand and under the railway line onto King Street. We continued down through Fenton and forwards onto City Road. We went past KFC and we got up and got off at the Travers Court bus stop outside the block of flats. Once off the bus we walked onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to use his computer and watch buses. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching and we saw it was First Potteries 67148 on a #11 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off up City Road 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. At the roundabout at the East end of Bentilee we turned right onto Beverley Drive and then left onto Dawlish Drive and we got up and got off the bus. We walked around the corner and Matthew had can of Cherry Coke. We went back to the Fenton. We set off on foot to the bus stop all the way over on Dawlish Drive. As short time later the bus came around the corner. As exoected we saw it was First Potteries 67159 on a #11 to Newcastle. We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto Dawlish Drive. We ran through the estate and back onto the A5272. We ran up to Adderley Green and we saw First Potteries 63352 parked in the garage. At the roundabout we turned right onto Anchor Road. system onto Commerce Street and right onto The Strand. After a brief stop we ran down the Strand and under the railway line onto King Street. We continued down through Fenton and forwards onto City Road. We went past KFC and we got up and got off. We walked down City Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned right onto Temple Street and at the end we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We went across the spare ground onto Willowdale Avenue and onto Whieldon Road and into uncle Dave's. 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 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.

Wednesday, 21 January 2026

Trip to Leek / Newcastle 21-01-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



63118Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS11First Potteries
6011Newcastle BSNewcastle College1D&G Bus


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to Belper he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to Belper and we saw First Potteries 67144 on a #11 to Hanley. In the morning Matthew went to Leek. We went downstairs and we got in a car. We set off onto Temple Street. we turned left onto Christchurch Street whwre we saw First Potteries 67155 on a #23 to Hanley. We turned left onto Baker Street and left into Glebedale Road and we turned right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned sharp left onto Victoria Road. down the hill to Joiners Square. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A52 and we ran up to Bucknall. At the lights we continued onto the A5009 and we ran through Abbey Hulton and Milton to Stockon Brook and we joined the Northbound A53 and we ran through Endon and and Longsdon past old pub which is currently being built into new farm shop and restaurant. We continued through Ladderedge and up the hill into Leek town Centre. We turned left onto St Edwards Street and left onto the A523 past the site of the new Tim Hortons. We took the next right turning and parked up. We went in the pub and Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew had a mixed grill with beans washed down with a glass of Coke. For afters Matthew had chocolate fudge cake and custard. When we had finished we got in the car and we set off onto the A523. We turned right onto St Edwards Street and right onto the A53. We ran out of lee town centre and we climbed the hill up towards Ladderegde. We continued through Longsdon and down towards Endon. We continued down through Stockton Brook and we turned left onto the A5009. we ran through Baddeley Green and into Abbey Hulton. We continued under the railway line and into Bucknall. At the light we ran forwards onto the A52 and towards Joiners Square. We turned left onto Victoria Road and we turned onto Manor Street. We turned right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. In Heron Cross we turned right onto Blurton Road. We continued through Blurton and we turned right onto Church Street and right onto Beaconsfield Drive. We got home. We finished off the Blog and then we went back to the residential unit in the car. We set off through Blurton onto Finstock Avenue and we turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and left again onto Blurton Road. We went through the traffic lights onto Heron Street. We carried on forwards onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Masterson Street and we turned right onto Watkin Street. We continued onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went back upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses before going out later on. We saw Globe Travel OIG 5186. 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. 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 WM75 CMV parked up.


Afford rent-a-car WM75 CMV in Fenton
A short time later we saw the bus approaching. We saw it was First Potteries 63118 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 63118 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. A short time later we saw a bus come on stand. It was D&G Bus 6011 on a #1 to Audley.


D&G Bus 6011 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Audley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road. At the roundabout we went left onto the A52 and we veered left onto Merrial Street. We turned right onto the A34. We continued onto Knutton lane and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off along Knutton Lane and we turned right onto Dunkirk and we turned right onto Poolside and we arrived at Our Space. Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew went inside and had some twirl chocolate bar and a can of Coke. He also spent time in the soft play area. We watch buses out of the window we saw Priory Adult Care EJ21 RNU. When we had finished we said goodbye and we returned to Fenton in a taxi. We set off onto Stanier Street. When we returned to Fenton in a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off along Stanier Street and we turned left onto Pool Side. We turned left onto Dunkirk and we turned right onto Knutton Lane. We around the roundabout and back onto the Ryecroft and we ran forwards onto the one-way system. We continued onto the A52 and we ran into Hartshill. We veered left onto Shelton New Road and we stopped briefly near to the old Gilberts furniture shop. We continued down Shelton New Road through the traffic lights and we turned right to join the Southbound A500. We stayed on the high level road and we came off the A500 at City Road. We ran under the railway line and up the hill into Fenton. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and Matthew went to his room. He watched television and used his computer. later on he had a bath. For supper Matthew had some toast. Matthew went to bed around 23:00... Mark.

Tuesday, 20 January 2026

Trip to Stoke / Newcastle 20-01-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67150Fenton, adj Travers CourtStoke, adj stop Q23First Potteries
47520Stoke, adj stop ONewcastle BS11First Potteries
63103Newcastle BSFenton, Smithpool Road11XFirst Potteries


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. We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned right onto Christchurch Street and we turned right onto Clifton Street and forwards onto Crawford Street and we turned left into the back alley. We turned right onto George Street and we turned right onto Welby Street and we turned left into the Watkin Street. We turned right onto Temple Street we saw grey minibus GX11 BFU. We continued 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 City Road. On the way to the bus stop we saw Afford rent-a-car RX75 AWR parked up at their garage. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67150 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down City Road and we joined the A52 to go under the railway line and over the A500. We continued onto Church Street and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took a picture of First Potteries 67150 before it carried on towards Hanley.


First Potteries 67150 in Stoke
We down the road to the other stop to wait for a #23 to Hanley. After a short wait we saw First Potteries 35949 on a #25 to Hanley.


First Potteries 35949 in Stoke
A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching and as it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 47520 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 47520 in Stoke
We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down Church Street onto Hartshill Road and past the former pub where we are building a new convenience store. We ran up the hill and into Hartshill. We ran forwards onto George Street and we ran down the hill into Newcastle. We turned left at the roundabout onto Barracks Road and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We walked out of the bus station. We set off onto Hassell Street and we turned right onto High Street and we stopped at Cash Converters. We walked up High Street and we turned left onto Castle walk and stopped at Cancer Research. We continued up Castle Walk and up onto Ironmarket. We returned to the cafe and Matthew had a a piece of bakewell tart washed down with a can of Coke. After we had finished eating we stopped at PDSA Charity Shop. We continued down Castle Walk and we stopped Bristish Heart Foundation Home and Fashion and Matthew bought some boots. We walked down Castle walk and stopped at Cancer Research. We continued up Castle Walk and we went down to the bottom end of the bus station. A few minutes later a bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63103 on a #11X to Hanley.


First Potteries 63103 in Newcastle bus station
We got on 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. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over city Road and walked back to the residential unit. Matthew went back upstairs and Matthew chilled out in his room. Later on Matthew went downstairs to go to the bin and throw away some rubbish. Afterwards he returned across the road. Matthew went back upstairs to his room. Later on Matthew went downstairs. We set off 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 Steak pie 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.

Monday, 19 January 2026

Trip to Etruria / Wolstanton 19-01-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



YJ69 EHGFentonLongtonCharterTravel Express
YJ69 EHGLongtonFentonCharterTravel Express


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 raspberry and apple juice drink 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. We ran through Hanford and we crossed the A500 and we continued through Trent Vale. We continued through into Newcastle and we turned right onto Barracks Road and we passed the bus station. We saw First Potteries 35684 on a #101 to Hanley. 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 we set of to the shop. We bran along Garner Street to Etruria and we turned left onto the A53. We veered left onto Forge Lane. We ran forwards onto Shelton Boulevard past the site of a new development 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 First Potteries 63116 on #501 Festival Park retail. We parked up and we saw First Potteries 35945 on a #501 circular service.


First Potteries 35945 in Wolstanton
We went into the shop and we did Matthew weekly shop. We went outside and we saw black minibus SC74 FEH.


SC74 FEH in Wolstanton
We set off through the retail park and we turned left onto the A527 and 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. We passed the bus station and we saw First Potteries 63345 on a #38A to Waterhayes. 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. We wrote some Blog and afterwards Matthew returned to the residential unit. We got in the car and we set off through Burton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive where we saw gold minibus DE04 FNZ parked up. 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 turned left onto Masterson Street and we saw Stafford & District Community Link LA72 DDU. 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 chilled out on his computer and watched buses out of the window. Matthew chilled out in his room and we saw Shelton Care Group FP75 DZB outside. For a late tea we had sausages, potatoes and carrots followed by a jam filled shortbread biscuit and ashed this down with a glass of Irn Bru. 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. Once we had finished in the park we walked back along Grove Road. We crossed over the Whieldon Road and we saw it was Travel Express YJ69 EHG. We got on the bus and we set off onto Whieldon Road and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto City Road and we ran up onto King Street and we went forwards onto King Street. We ran through Foley and we under the railway line into Longton. The bus stopped on Market Street and we turned left onto Anchor Road. We turned right onto Sutherland Road and we stopped at the pub. Matthew had a glass of Coke. When we had finished we returned to Fenton in Travel Express YJ69 EHG. We set off onto along Sutherland Road and left onto Anchor Road. We turned right onto Market Street and left onto The Strand and we ran under the railway line onto King Street. We ran through Foley into Fenton and forwards onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road and left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and 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.

Saturday, 17 January 2026

Trip to Shrewsbury / Bicton Heath 17-01-2026




















































BusFromToServiceOperator



2511Harlescott, opp TescoShrewsbury BS25Arriva Midlands
2960Shrewsbury BSGains Park, Opp Woodcrest Jct11Arriva Midlands
235Gains Park, Opp Woodcrest JctShrewsbury BSX77Tanat Valley
2984Shrewsbury BSBicton Heath, The Woolhams Jct11Arriva Midlands
2960Bicton Heath, The Woolhams JctShrewsbury BS11Arriva Midlands
3692Shrewsbury BSHarlescott, opp Tesco64Arriva Midlands


Today we decided to re-visit Shrewsbury. We had asked Matthew it the week where he would like to go and he chose Shrewsbury. Research for the trip consisted of looking at tickets on the Arrive site and checking the weather. The weather was forecast for mainly dry with the chance of a shower, with some sunshine. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. We got up at 10:30 and Matthew had toast and orange juice for breakfast. After getting dressed we set off around 11:40 to pick up uncle Dave. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road past the former Coral shop which is new going to be flats. 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 back up Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and at the roundabout we joined the Westbound A50. We came off the A50 onto Stanley Matthews Way and we turned right onto the A5035 and we turned right onto the Northbound A34 through Trentham. We turned left onto Whitm ore Road and we crossed over the A519 onto the A5182. We headed Westwards for a few miles and at the end of the road we turned left onto the Southbound A53 We ran through Whitmore and Balwins gate and we crossed over the A51 by The Swan With Two Necks. We continued through Loggerheads and to the North of Market Drayton and on the other side of town we stopped in a layby. The food wagon had finished serving so we continued towards Shrewsbury down the A53. We ran through Tern Hill and Shawbury and at the edge of town we took a wrong turn and headed along .We did a u-turn at the next roundabout and we turned sharp right onto the A5112. We continued for a short distance and we stopped at a pub. Matthew went to the toilet and after we returned we met back up with mum and uncle Dave. Matthew had a beefburger with and extra chicken burger with fries washed down with a glass of Coke. After we had finished we headed back to the car. We set off onto the A5112 and we drove a few hundred yeard before turning right into Tesco. We parked up and we said goodbye to mum. We walked along the side of Tesco to the the bus stop to wait for a bus into Shrewsbury. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2511 on a #25 to Shrewsbury.


Arriva Midlands 2511 in Harlescott
We got on the bus and we booked a Shrewsbury and Telford Day Saver at £8.50 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off Southwards along the unnamed road and we turned right onto Harlescott Lane. We ran under the railway Line and we turned left onto Lancaster Road. We turned right onto York Road and we ran forwards onto Gloucester Road. We turned left onto Little Harlescott Lane and we turned left onto Mount Pleasant Road. We ran under the railway line and we turned left onto the A5191. At the roundabout we did a u-turn and we headed Southwards down the A5191. We ran Southwards into Shrewsbury and we went under the railway line. We turned right onto Smithfield Road and we turned left into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we visited the toilet. We walked out for the bus station and we saw First Lakeside 44971 on Layover.


First Lakeside 44971 in Shrewsbury bus station
We decided to go and get cake so we headed onto Smithfield Road. We walked around the corner and on the way to the cake shop we saw Arriva Midlands 2976 on a #512 to Shrewsbury.


Arriva Midlands 2976 in Shrewsbury
We arrived at the cak shop and Matthew had a huge slice of millionaire's shortbreab and a can of Coke. We walked back along Smithfield Road to the bus station and Matthew ate the millionaire's shortbread. We sat and wayched buses for a while. We sa Select Bus 3 on a arrive on a #96 service from Telford before going over to the layover area.


Select Bus 3 in Shrewsbury bus station
We took a few more picture and we headed into the bus station to catch another bus. A short time later we saw a bus come onto the stand. We saw it was Arriva Midlands 2960 on a #11 to Bicton Heath.


Arriva Midlands 2960 in Shrewsbury bus station
We got on the bus and and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off out off the bus station onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto Copthorne Road. We ran down Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital and as we travelled through the hospital the Hospital. We turned right onto Mytton Oak Road. We continued through Bowbrook. We turned right onto Gains Park Way. We headed down the hill into Bicton Heath. We turned right onto Gains Avenue and we turned left onto Gains Park Way and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2960 as it continued towards Shrewsbury.


Arriva Midlands 2960 in Gains Park
Once off the bus we had planned to wait around for a while and catch the next #11, but as we settle down in the stop we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Tanat Valley 235 on a X77 to Shrewsbury. We got on the bus and we purchased singles to Shrewsbury at £1.60 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down Gains Park Way and we continued through Bowbrook. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital where they are building some new hospital wards. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road and we ran down Copthorne Road. We ran forwards onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station we got up and got off the bus and Matthew took a picture of Tanat Valley 235 before it went off to the layover area.


Tanat Valley 235 in Shrewsbury bus station
We looked across the road and we saw Arriva Midlands 2975 on layover.


Arriva Midlands 2975 in Shrewsbury bus station
We considered what to catch next so we headed inside the bus station. Whilst there we saw Select Bus 6 on a #436 to Bridgnorth.


Select Bus 6 in Shrewsbury bus station
We had a look around to see what we could catch. A few minutes later we saw a bus pull on stand. As it ot closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2984 on #11 to Bicton Heath.


Arriva Midlands 2984 in Shrewsbury bus station
We got on the bus and and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off out off the bus station onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto Copthorne Road. We ran down Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital and as we travelled through the hospital the Hospital. We turned right onto Mytton Oak Road. We continued through Bowbrook. We turned right onto Gains Park Way. We headed down the hill into Bicton Heath. We turned right onto Gains Avenue where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 2984 as it continued on the #11 to Shrewsbury.


Arriva Midlands 2984 in Bicton Heath
We walked down Gains Avenue and we headed thruogh a passgeway onto the A458. We crossed over the road and we went into the Co-op. We bought a bottle of Coke and a chocolate bar. Once we had finished we paid for our stuff and we headed out of the shop. We crossed the A458 and we headed down the passageway. We went back to the same stop and we waited for the bus. Whilst we waited Matthew had a Milky Way. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2960 on a #11 to Shrewsbury.


Arriva Midlands 2960 in Bicton Heath
We got on the bus and and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off down Gains Avenue. We turned left onto Gains Park Way and we continued through Bowbrook. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road and we turned into the hospital. We turned left onto Mytton Oak Road. We ran down Copthorne Road. We ran forwards onto the A458. We went around the Welsh Bridge. We turned left onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station we got up and got off the bus. We headed to the toilet but the toilet had shut. I suggested to Matthew we caught a bus out asap and got to Tesco. We looked across and we saw a bus we could catch. We saw it was Arriva Midlands 3692 on a #64 to Market Drayton.


Arriva Midlands 3692 in Shrewsbury bus station
We got on the bus and we placed the Shropshire and Telford Day Saver ticket for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Raven Mwadows and we turned right onto the A458. We turned left onto Chester Street and we turned right onto Cross Street and under the railway line. We turned left onto the A5191 and we headed Northwards out of town. I explained to Matthew that we could only go so far on this bus if he wanted to get 6 or more buses in for the day. We passed the roundabout with the Heathgates pub and we joined the Northbound A5112. We continued Northwards into Harlescott and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 3692 before it returned on a #25 to Shrewsbury.


Arriva Midlands 3692 in Harlescott
We crossed over Harlescott Lane and we headed into Tesco. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we bought a chcoclate bar. We walked across to where mum had parked the car. We got in the car and Matthew had a can of Cheery Coke. We set off out of the tesco car park and we turned left onto the Northbound A52. We travelled through Upper Astley for around 5 miles and into Shawbury. We stopped nin Shawbury. I went to the chip show and Matthew and mum went to the Co-op and bought a bottle of Dr Pepper and a chocolate bar. We went back to the car and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy. We set off onto the A53 and we headed Northwards. We crossed over the A41 and Northwards towards Market Drayton. We ran along the Market Drayton by-pass and we continued Northwards towards Loggerheads. we crossed over the A51 and up through Whitmore. We ran Northwards towards Newcastle and we turned right onto Trentham Road. We turned left onto the A519. We joined the Northbound A500. We ran through Hanford up to Stoke and we came off the A500. We turned right onto City Road and right again to go Southwards onto the A500. We veered left onto Wheildon Road and we went to uncle Dave's. We dropped off uncle Dave and Matthew got out to use the toilet and afterwards went to see uncle Rob. He also had some Fanta Orange and updated the calendar. Once we had dropped off uncle Dave we set off onto Wheildon Road. 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 we turned right onto Church Road. We turned right onto the A5035 and we got back to Blurton around 20:00. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we did some of the Blog. We also wrote a few emails and generally used the computer to entertain ourselves. We did some of the Blog and Matthew got ready for bed. Matthew settled down around 00:00... Mark

Friday, 16 January 2026

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 16-01-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67176Fenton, adj Travers CourtHanley, adj stop J123First Potteries
67176Hanley BSFenton, Smithpool Road23First Potteries
67179Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS11First Potteries
35685Newcastle BSNewcastle, O/s The Cherry Tree PH25First Potteries


Today Matthew was returning to Blurton, going to Grandma's and going out for tea, but first he was going out on the bus. Matthew wokw up at 08:00 and had his medication. For breakfast Matthew had crumpets and orange juice. After spending some time in his room watching buses out of the window, he set off out to the bus stop. He went downstairs onto Temple Street and cut through onto City Road. On the way to the bus stop we saw Afford rent-a-car NU72 XKK parked up at their garage.


Afford rent-a-car NU72 XKK in Fenton
We continued to the bus stop and as we waited we saw First Potteries 35941 on a #40 to Newstead.


First Potteries 35941 in Fenton
Also seen was First Potteries 67154 on a #11X to Newcastle.


First Potteries 67154 in Fenton
A short time later we saw a bus turn around the corner. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67176 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down City Road and we joined the A52 to go under the railway line and over the A500. We continued onto Church Street and into the centre of Stoke. After a brief stop we continued around the one-way system onto Elenora Steet and right onto Copeland street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. We went past the railway station and and turned right onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street before we turned right onto John Street where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew got another picture of First Potteries 67176 before it continued into the bus station.


First Potteries 67176 in Hanley
Once off the bus we walked down John Street and we turned right onto Betesda Street. We visited the museum and when we had finished we walked along Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road. We continued towards Shelton onto Cleveland Road and we went into the park. Matthew spent some times in the park and afterwards go a taxi. We set off along College Road and we turned left onto Snow Hill. We turned right onto Havelock Place and right onto Clark Street We went passed the site of Cabality and we turned right onto Rectory Road and left onto Argyle Street. We turned right onto Sun Street past the former pub. We turned left onto Mount Pleasant and right onto Clough Street. We turned right onto the ring road and we we ran anti clockwise to Lichfield Street. We stopped in the car park and we got out of the taxi and we went into the chip shop. Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished eaiting we headed to the bus station. We crossed over the ring road and onto Lichfield Street. We headed into the bus station and Matthew went to the toilet. We waited for a bus back towards Fenton. Whilst we waited we saw D&G Bus 762 on a #9A to Tunstall.


D&G Bus 762 in Hanley bus station
Also seen was First Potteries 63346 on a #38 Kidsgrove circular service.


First Potteries 63346 in Hanley bus station
A short time later we saw the bus pull on stand. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67176 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 67176 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We crossed over the ring road and we ran down onto Regent Road and forwards onto Cleveland Road. We ran down though Shelton along College Road and we ran down to the railway station. We turned left onto Station Road and we ran part the railway station before going right onto Glebe Street. After a brief stop we continued forwards onto Glebe Street and we followed the road around onto Church Street. We crossed the A500. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over the road and cut through ont Temple Street. We went back into the residential unit and we went upstairs. Matthew chilled out in his room until it was time for me to pick him up. around 14:30 Matthew came downstairs to the car. We said goodbye to mum and we set off on foot to the bus stop. We cut through onto City Road and on the way we saw Safeguard CP18 FLN parking up.


Safeguard CP18 FLN in Fenton
Whilst we waited for a bus to Newcastle we saw a bus turn the corner. We saw First Potteries 67158 on a #23 to Hanley.


First Potteries 67158 in Fenton
Right behind this was our bus. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67179 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 67179 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 and past the former pub, the site of a new shop. 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 walkd down to the bottom of the bus station to see what we could see. We saw Arriva Midlands 3694 on a #64 to Shrewsbury.


Arriva Midlands 3694 in Newcastle bus station
Almost imediately we saw a bus we could catch. It pulled on stand and we saw it was First Potteries 35685 on a #25 to Hanley.


First Potteries 35685 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. 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 35685 as it continued towards Hanley.


First Potteries 35685 in Newcastle
Once off the bus we headed up the hill towards Grandma's. At Grandma's Matthew had toast and a can of Irn Bru and used her computer. around 18:00 we set off from Grandma's and headed to the pub. and we ran down Occupation 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 sightings whilst we ate include D&G Bus 29 running out of service towards the depot and D&G Bus 6007 on a #22 to Newcastle. Once we had finished eating we saw First Potteries 63347 on a #101 to Hanley. We set off and we carried on along the A34 and we went through Hanford and into Trentham. We turned left onto the A5035. We crossed over the railway line and into Blurton. We got back around 19:15. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we sorted a few things out. Matthew also had a Crunchie and a bottle of Cherry Coke. We wrote the Blog and sent a couple of e-mails. We chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark