Trip to Hanley / Crewe 24-07-2021

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
65029	Fenton, adj Royal Oak	Stoke, Adj stop Q	23	First Potteries
63171	Stoke, Stop N	Hanley BS	25	First Potteries
63113	Hanley BS	Crewe BS	3	First Potteries
2534	Crewe BS	Winsford, Asda	31	Arriva NW&W
2491	Winsford, Siddon Street	Crewe BS	31	Arriva NW&W
2933	Crewe BS	Congleton BS	38	Arriva NW&W
2931	Congleton BS	Crewe BS	38	Arriva NW&W

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to stay fairly local. In light of the weather forecast it was perhaps a good idea. We didn't do any research for the trip other than to check the weather. 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. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. In the distance we saw Temple Street church minibus RX18 GZW. We carried on along Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. The bus appeared and it was First Potteries 65029 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road. down under the railway line and into Stoke. We got up and got off the bus and we went around the corner into Church Street to Stoke Cafe. Uncle Dave escorted Matthew downstairs to the toilet and I ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. After we had finished eating we walked down Church Street. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63171 on a #25 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Church Street over the A500 and under the railway line. We followed the A52 to the left and we ran alongside the railway and onto Station Road. We went past the railway station ans we turned right onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we saw First Potteries 69155 on a #7A to Biddulph. We entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. We walked down to the stand for the Crewe bus and we waited for the next one. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63113 on a #3 to Crewe. We got on the bus and we flashed the First Day ticket to the driver before we sat down near to the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and we went straight across onto Marsh Street. We turned right up onto Trinity Street and we went past the former RBS now a new shop. We turned left onto Stafford Street. After picking up more passenger outside of Debenhams we followed the road around to the left and then back onto marsh Street. At the roundabout we went straight on onto Waterloo Road and we ran up the hill into Cobridge. We continued into Burslem and through the traffic lights onto Scotia Road. We went past the old Burslem PMT garage and we followed the road around to the left onto Williamson Street. At the corner we turned right onto Tunstall High Street We saw First Potteries 63034 on a #3 to Hanley. We continued North onto the A50 and we passed the site of the new Costa Coffee being built. We ran through Goldenhill and down the bank into Kidsgrove. We ran under the railway line and we past Lidl. We into Cheshire and we crossed over the A34. We continued into Church Lawton and then into Alsager. We continued Westwards along the B5077 under the M6 and into Radway Green. We followed the road to the right up Slaughter hill and we continued straight up into Haslington. We turned left onto Crewe Road and we re-joined the B5077 towards Crewe Green. We crossed over the roundabout onto the Westbound A534 and we ran towards Crewe railway station. We past the railway station where we saw an unidentified Majestic coach. We continued for around 1/2 mile before turning right into Edlestone Road. We ran into town crossing over the railway line and forwards onto Chester Bridge. We followed the road around onto Delamere Street and we turned right into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 63113 as it continued towards Hanley.

First Potteries 63113 in Crewe bus station

Once off the bus we saw Arriva NW&W 4699 on layover. We whilst we waited for a bus to Winsford. A few minutes later we saw Arriva NW&W 2534 on a #31 to Northwich. We got on the bus and we flashed Arriva Day Saver tickets at £5.50 each driver before we sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station. We turned onto West Street we turned North onto Underwood Lane. We turned left onto the B5076 and then we turned Northwards again onto Mablins Lane. We turned left onto Parkers Road before rejoining the B5076. We crossed a roundabout and then we took the next left into Leighton Hospital grounds. At the hospital there was a small bus station. We left the bus station area and we crossed the A530 at Bradfield Green before we continues up to Church Minshull crossing the Shropshire Union canal and the river Weaver. We continued North through the centre of Cheshire, Darnhall. We came into town along Beeston drive and we stopped opposite the shopping centre outside Witherspoons where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off around the corner and into the pub. Matthew visited the toilet and afterwards he had a glass of Coke. When we had finished we went outside and met up with uncle Dave. We walked down Dene Drive and we turned right onto the A54. There were a few buses parked up there. On bus pulled off before we got there but the other we saw Arriva NW&W 3161 which was about to work a X29 to Northwich. Across the road. So we crossed under the road in the subway and we came out and we saw dud Arriva NW&W 2491 on a #31 to Crewe. We decided to do the bus anyway so we got on and we flashed the Arriva North West Day Saver tickets to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off the A54 before turning left into the housing estate and heading back South through Darnhall. Somewhere between Darnall and Church Minshull. We passed through Church Minshull and just before we crossed the A530. At the hospital there was a small bus station and we the B5076 and Underwood Lane and West Street. We passed the Fung Lung Chinese takeaway, which I always thought sounded like some kind of medical condition and we turned onto Hightown to run into the bus station. when we got back into the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus and we saw a few buses parked up on layover. Opposite was Arriva NW&W 4407 parked up. After a short while we saw Arriva NW&W 2933 on a #38 to Macclesfield. We got on the bus and we booked Arriva Arriva Day Saver before The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Delamere Street. We followed the road around to the right onto Chester Bridge and we crossed the railway line and onto Edleston Road. At the end of the long straight road we turned left onto the A534 and we ran past the railway station ans past B&Q. We traveled Eastwards along Crewe Road. We went through Haslington and Winterley and further North through Wheelock Heath. We crossed the A534 and we ran through Wheelock. We ran over the canal and into Sandbach town center past Sandbach School. When we got to the Common onto Congleton Road. We joined the A534 and past the site of the new development by the M6. We continued along the A534 and we crossed over the M6 and into Arclid. We carried on through Medhurst Green and we crossed over the Wall Hill roundabouts. On the edge of Congleton we joined the A34 and we ran East along the road for a short while before going onto West Street. We entered town along Antrobus Street, Mill Street and Mountbatten Way. We turned right into Market Street, past the Bear Grills cafe and into the bus station. We got off the bus. We walked up to the top end of the bus station and Matthew visited the toilet. Afterwards we continued up Market Street and we turned right on to Bridge Street. We stopped at Costa Coffee. Matthew had a piece of millionaire's shortbread and a bottle of Coke. We walked along Bridge Street and left onto Market Street and back to the bus station. We sat in one of the bus stops and Matthew ate a couple of fun sized Milky Way bars. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As expected it was Arriva NW&W 2931 on a #38 to Crewe. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Day Saver ticket to the driver for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and onto market Street and we ran down the hill onto Mountbatten Way. We turned left onto Mill Street and we climbed the hill, turning right onto West Street. At the roundabout we went straight onto the A34 and at the following junction we went straight ahead onto the A534. We went out of town through West Heath and then out into open countryside. We crossed the A50 at the Arclid crossroads. On the west side of the M6 we left the A534 and turned right onto Congleton Road and we ran into Sandbach Common where we saw Arriva NW&W 4408 on a #37A to Northwich. After a brief stop we continued on our journey. After a brief stop we went Westwards out of the town onto Crewe Road and through Wheelock. We crossed the A534 and we ran through Wheelock Heath and Winterly, passed the pond. We continued into Haslington and turned left onto Crewe Road and we re-joined the B5077 towards Crewe Green. We crossed over the roundabout onto the Westbound A534 and we ran towards Crewe railway station. We past the railway station and we continued for around 1/2 mile before turning right into Edleston Road. We entered Crewe town centre and we followed the road around onto Delamere Street. When we got into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked onto Victoria Street. We headed back to the car and we met up with mum who had left her car keys back at home. She was waiting with sausage rols and a bottle of Irn Bru for Matthew. We got in the car and we set off onto the Eastbound A532 and we turned right onto Vernon Way. We turned left onto Earle Street and we continued onto Manchester Bridge. We turned right onto Macon Way and we we crossed over the roundabout onto Weston Road. We turned right onto David Whitby Way and left onto the A500. We ran under the M6 and as we continued South we came to an incident on the road and the road narrowed to a single lane. We passed the broken down vehicle and we passed Bullocks RB11 BUL, Alfa 72, Terry Bushell A13 TBT, and unidentified National Express liveried coach (#540), MT Travel HK58 ECV, an unidentified white minibus and an unidentified grey coach as we travelled Southwards. We turned left onto City Road. We ran up the hill into Fenton and we turned right onto Smithpool Road, We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his roon to watch TV and chill out. Matthew went up to his room to use his computer and watch buses. For tea Matthew had a chicken burger from kfc. He also had some fries and a cup of Coke followed by a jam filled sponge. Later on we saw First Potteries 44514 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 44514 in Fenton

A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 69162 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 69162 in Fenton

Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. When it was time to go to we went downstairs and and we got in the car. We set off onto Temple Street and at the end we turned left onto Smithpool Road and we turned right onto Whieldon Road and into uncle Dave's. Later on he had a few digestive biscuits and and some Irn Bru. Uncle Dave now has a biscuit tin. Matthew chilled out in uncle Dave's house using his computer and watching television. Uncle Dave also did his DJ set. A couple of hours later staff came to escort Matthew back home. We set off onto Whieldon Road and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Temple Street past the new building under construction, which is now getting near to completion. We continued back to the residential unit. Matthew went back to the room and went on his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Hanley / Crewe 15-05-2021

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67152	Fenton, adj Royal Oak	Stoke, Adj stop Q	23	First Potteries
63177	Stoke, Stop N	Hanley BS	25	First Potteries
65727	Hanley BS	Crewe BS	3	First Potteries
2933	Crewe BS	Congleton BS	38	Arriva NW&W
36	Congleton BS	Holmes Chapel, Shopping Precinct	42	D&G Bus
155	Holmes Chapel, Shopping Precinct	Congleton BS	42	D&G Bus
127	Congleton BS	Holmes Chapel, Shopping Precinct	42	D&G Bus

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to stay fairly local. In light of the weather forecast it was perhaps a good idea. We didn't do any research for the trip other than to check the weather. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw D&G Bus 111 on a #1A to Meir.

D&G 111 in Fenton

Also seen was Afford Rent-A-Car WM70 CWU in their garage.

Afford Rent-A-Car WM70 CWU in Fenton

Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. In the distance we saw Temple Street church minibus RX18 GZW. We carried on along Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. The bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67152 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road. down under the railway line and into Stoke. We got up and got off the bus and we went around the corner into Church Street to Stoke Cafe. Uncle Dave escorted Matthew downstairs to the toilet and I ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. After we had finished eating we walked down Church Street. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63177 on a #25 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Church Street over the A500 and under the railway line. We followed the A52 to the left and we ran alongside the railway and onto Station Road. We went past the railway station ans we turned right onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we saw First Potteries 69155 on a #7A to Biddulph. We entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. We walked down to the stand for the Crewe bus and we waited for the next one. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 65727 on a #3 to Crewe. We got on the bus and we flashed the First Day ticket to the driver before we sat down near to the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and we went straight across onto Marsh Street. We turned right up onto Trinity Street and we went past the former RBS now a new shop. We turned left onto Stafford Street. After picking up more passenger outside of Debenhams we followed the road around to the left and then back onto marsh Street. At the roundabout we went straight on onto Waterloo Road and we ran up the hill into Cobridge. We continued into Burslem and through the traffic lights onto Scotia Road. We went past the old Burslem PMT garage and we followed the road around to the left onto Williamson Street. At the corner we turned right onto Tunstall High Street We saw First Potteries 63034 on a #3 to Hanley. and we continued North onto the A50. We ran through Goldenhill and down the bank into Kidsgrove. We ran under the railway line and we past Lidl. We into Cheshire and we crossed over the A34. We continued into Church Lawton and then into Alsager. We continued Westwards along the B5077 under the M6 and into Radway Green. We followed the road to the right up Slaughter hill and we continued straight up into Haslington. We turned left onto Crewe Road and we re-joined the B5077 towards Crewe Green. We crossed over the roundabout onto the Westbound A534 and we ran towards Crewe railway station. We past the railway station where we saw an unidentified Majestic coach. We continued for around 1/2 mile before turning right into Edlestone Road. We ran into town crossing over the railway line and forwards onto Chester Bridge. We followed the road around onto Delamere Street and we turned right into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw Arriva NW&W 2934 on a #31 to Northwich. We decided to have a quick walk around town for a break from buses. We set off around the corner onto Charles Street and right onto Victoria Street past the former Wetherspoons pub which closed down as part of the new bus station development that will be starting soon. We turned right onto Market Street and left onto Earle Street. We walked past the market which is under renovation, and we stopped at the pub on the end of the road. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we had a glass of Coke. Whilst we gad our drink we asked Matthew hwere he wanted to go next. He wanted to go to Congleton so we looked at the time of the next bus. there was a departure in just less than 20 minutes so we finished our drinks and walked back to the bus station. We set off down Prince Albert Street and we turned right onto Crewe Street. We followed the street to the left onto and we turned right onto Moss Square. We re-joined Prince Albert Street and we turned left onto Chester Street and we turned right onto Market Street. We turned left onto Delamere Street and we entered the bus station from the Southern End. We walked into the main station and we saw Arriva NW&W 4406 on a #31 to Northwich. We saw a few buses parked up on layover. Opposite was Arriva NW&W 2931 parked up. After a short while we saw Arriva NW&W 2933 on a #38 to Macclesfield. We got on the bus and we booked Arriva NW&W Day Savers at £5.50 each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Delamere Street. We followed the road around to the right onto Chester Bridge past the site of the up and coming Little Dessert Shop. We crossed the railway line and onto Edleston Road. At the end of the long straight road we turned left onto the A534 and we ran past the railway station ans past B&Q. We traveled Eastwards along Crewe Road. We went through Haslington and Winterley and further North through Wheelock Heath. We crossed the A534 and we ran through Wheelock. We ran over the canal and into Sandbach town center past Sandbach School. When we got to the Common onto Congleton Road. We joined the A534 and past the site of the new development by the M6. We continued along the A534 and we crossed over the M6 and into Arclid. We carried on through Medhurst Green and we crossed over the Wall Hill roundabouts. On the edge of Congleton we joined the A34 and we ran East along the road for a short while before going onto West Street. We turned left onto Antrobus Street and turned left Mill Street. We turned right onto Mountbatten Way and We turned right into Market Street, past the Bear Grills cafe and into the bus station. We got off the bus. We walked up to the top end of the bus station and Matthew visited the toilet. Afterwards we continued up Market Street and we turned right on to Bridge Street and we turned right onto Mill Street. We turned left onto the A54 and we turned left onto the A34. We turned right onto Barn Road psat the former Congleton Household Waste which is new a Costa Coffee. We ran forwards onto Viking Way past the site of the new homes, supermarket, local centre, offices, and light industrial development. We walked back up Viking Way and forwards onto Barn Road. We turned left onto the A34 and we turned right onto the A54. We turned right into Market Street and into the bus station and we waited for a bus towards Holmes Chapel. After a short while we saw D&G Bus 36 on a #42 to Crewe. We got on and we booked singles at £1.50 each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. When it was time we set off up Market Street and we ran down the hill onto Mountbatten Way. We turned left onto Mill Street and we climbed the hill, turning right onto West Street. At the roundabout we went straight onto the A34 and up West Heath. we went straight ahead onto the A54. We turned right onto Cumberland Road and we turned left onto Longdown Road. We turned left onto Delamere Road. We turned right onto the A54. We through Somerford. We traveled through through Brereton Heath. We up through Davenport and we ran down through Sandlow Green and we turned right onto Manor Lane. We turned left onto the A535. We ran down the hill into Holmes Chapel. We turned left onto the A50 and we got up and got off the Once off the bus we set off on foot up the A50. Once off the bus we walked through town back towards the centre. We had spotted a co-operative food store on the way past so we walked. Matthew had a a can of Coke and a couple of chocolate bars. We crossed over the road and we headed to the bus stop. We waited for a bus back towards Congleton. A short time later we saw D&G Bus 155 on a #42 to Congleton. we got on and we booked singles before we sat down towards the back of the bus. When it was time we set off up the A50. We turned right onto the A535 and turned right onto Manor Lane. At the roundabout we turned left onto the A54. We ran through Sandlow Green and we continued up to Davenport. We crossed over the A536 and we continued North through Somerford. We ran through West Heath. We turned left onto Delamere Road and we turned left onto Longdown Road. We turned right onto Cumberland Road. We turned left onto the A54. On the edge of Congleton we joined the A34 and we ran East along the road for a short while before going onto West Street. We turned left onto Antrobus Street and turned left Mill Street. We turned right onto Mountbatten Way and We turned right into Market Street, past the Bear Grills cafe and into the bus station. We got off the bus and we spotted Arriva NW&W 3160 on a #38 to Crewe. We sat in one of the bus stops and Matthew ate a couple of fun sized Milky Way bars. Whilst we were eating we saw D&G Bus 135 on a #94 to Newcastle. After a short while we saw D&G Bus 127 on a #42 to Crewe. We got on and we booked singles for the final time today each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. When it was time we set off up Market Street and we ran down the hill onto Mountbatten Way. We turned left onto Mill Street and we climbed the hill, turning right onto West Street. At the roundabout we went straight onto the A34 and up West Heath. we went straight ahead onto the A54. We turned right onto Cumberland Road and we turned left onto Longdown Road. We turned left onto Delamere Road. We turned right onto the A54. We through Somerford. We traveled through through Brereton Heath. We up through Davenport and we ran down through Sandlow Green and we turned right onto Manor Lane. We turned left onto the A535. We ran down the hill into Holmes Chapel. We turned left onto the A50 and we got up and got off the Once off the bus we waited for mum to arrive. Mum appeared and we got in the car. Matthew had a sausage roll and a can or orange Fanta. We set off along the A50 and we ran into Brereton Green and down towards Brereton. We continued down through Arclid. We ran through Fourlanes End and into Rode Heath. We continued over the A5011 and into Staffordshire and we ran under the railway line into Talke. We ran forwards onto the A34. At the next roundabout we turned left onto the A500 at Sideway and we got onto the Eastbound A50. We came off at Longton and we went to Z Carz to see what was there this evening. There was nothing on the spare ground so we turned left into Willow Row. In the yard was Z Carz Ford minibus LG09 WPE. We went West along the A50 at Heron Cross and we turned right onto Blurton Road. We ran through Heron Cross onto Heron Street and we followed the road around onto Station Bridge Road. We turned left onto Christchurch street and left again onto Masterson Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. For a late tea Matthew had a chicken burger from KFC. He also had some fries and a cup of Coke. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Macclesfield / Hanley 22-10-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
OKZ 266	Fenton	Macclesfield	Charter	Stanton's of Stoke
OKZ 266	Macclesfield	Fenton	Charter	Stanton's of Stoke
67153	Fenton, adj Royal Oak	Hanley BS	23	First Potteries
63116	Hanley BS	Fenton, Victoria Place	6	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going out on the bus later on. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw First Potteries 67153 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67153 in Fenton

Also seen was First Potteries 63173 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63173 in Fenton

Around 09:00 we went downstairs. Transport for the trip was Stanton's of Stoke OKZ 266. We got on the bus and we sat down. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We crossed over City Road onto Manor Street and we headed onto Victoria Road. We turned left onto Victoria Road and we saw First Potteries 63118 on a #6 to Hanley. We ran down to Joiners Square. We turned right onto the A52 and we ran up to Bucknall. At Bucknall we continued onto the A5009. We ran through Abeey Hulton and Milton and we joined the Northbound A53. We continued North through Endon. We ran through Longsdon and we ran into Leek past the site of the new KFC. In the town centre we turned left onto St Edwards Street. We turned left onto the A523 and we ran out of town. We continued past Rudyard lake and through Rushton Spencer. We ran through Bosley crossroads and we continued into Macclesfield. We ran past the railway station and at the roundabout we turned left onto the A537. We turned left onto Mill Street and we set down in the town centre. Once off the bus we walked to Queen Victoria Street. Matthew visited a nearby cafe and had a burger and fries washed down with a can of Coke. Whilst we ate we saw Arriva NW&W 2931 on a #38 to Crewe. Afterwards we returned to Fenton on Stanton's of Stoke OKZ 266. We got on the bus and we sat down. We set off down Mill Street and we ran forwards onto park Green. We continued onto the Southbound A536 and forwards the Southbound A523 we ran out of town and over Bosley Crossroads. We ran through Rushton Spencer and past Rudyard Lake before entering Leek from the North. We turned left onto St Edwards Street and left onto the A53. We ran through Longsdon and into Endon. We continued South Through Stockton Brook and down to Cobridge. At the lights we turned left onto Waterloo Road. We ran down to the ring Road and then we ran around Hanley before going onto Lichfield Street. We ran down to Joiners Square and we continued onto Victoria Road. We ran up to the top and we turned sharp right onto City Road. We ran down to Smithpool Road and we turned left. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out for a while and use his computer. We saw Britannia Travel S100 KKE going towards Hanley.

Britannia Travel S100 KKE in Fenton

Also seen was beige minibus YG08 WXL going towards Heron Cross.

YG08 WXL in Fenton

Another vehicle seen was Magnum BX60 AAK heading towards Longton.

Magnum BX60 AAK in Fenton

For tea Matthew had a sausage chips and gravy followed by cake. Later on we went to Hanley. We went downstairs and onto City Road. We waited for a bus to Hanley. After a short while we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67153 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road. down under the railway line and into 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 we turned right onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we entered the bus station where we saw Park's of Hamilton BV67 JYT on a #548 to Birmingham. We got up and got off the bus and we set off onto Lichfield Street. We continued onto Stafford Street and we went to The Little Dessert Shop. Matthew had a slice of rainbow cake with custard. When he had finished he walked back along Stafford Street and forwards onto Lichfield Street. Back at the bus station we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A short while later we saw it was First Potteries 63116 on a #6 to Meir. 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 we walked around the corner and onto City Road. We walked back down and crossed over the road at the pelican Cross before cutting through to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room and chilled out 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 Crewe / Congleton 31-08-2019

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
708	Crewe BS	Congleton BS	38	Arriva NW&W
MX05 OUC	Congleton BS	Buglawton, Co-op	92	Hollinshead Coaches
MX05 OUC	Buglawton, Co-op	Congleton BS	92	Hollinshead Coaches
708	Congleton BS	Crewe BS	38	Arriva NW&W

Today Matthew decided to revisit Crewe after he saw the new bus station. There are also changes to bus service from the 1st September. Research consisted of download some of the bus timetables in the Crewe and North Staffordshire area. We also checked the weather which was for mainly dry and sunny with occasional showers. Matthew got up around 10:30 and had crumpets and orange juice for breakfast. We set off around 12:30 and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and left onto Blurton Road. we ran through Blurton and into Heron Cross. We turned left onto the A50 and we ran Westwards towards Sideway. At the roundabout we and we saw white minibus DS65 UEJ. We turned right onto the Northbound A500. As we ran Northwards we saw First Potteries 65731 running out of service, Z Carz HK57 LFY, Scraggs 6626 VT, West Midlands Ambulance Service YJ16 GLK. We went under the M6 and we continued towards Nantwich. We turned right onto David Whitby Way and we ran towards Crewe. We turned left onto the A532 and we turned into the Crewe Truck stop. The truck stop was closed so we continued into town. We ran up to the main roundabout and we turned left onto the A534. We turned right onto Eddleston Road and we saw Arriva NW&W 2934 on a #84 to Chester. Due to work on the Chester Bridge there was a diversion into town. We turned left onto Wistatston Road. We turned right onto Flag Lane and we ran forwards onto Hightown. I followed the Sat-nav instead of the Sat-nag and I went forwards onto Broad Street. We turned right onto Meredith Street and we came to a dead end on the wrong side of the A532. After turning around we turned left onto the A532 and right into the car park at Asda. We parked up and we walked over to Victoria Street. We went to the chip shop cafe on the corner and Matthew used the toilet. For dinner Matthew had sausage chips and gracy with bread and butter washed down with a glass of Pepsi. When we had finished we said goodbye to mum and we walked over to the bus station. We saw a few buses parked up on layover. Opposite was Arriva NW&W 4173 parked up.

Arriva NW&W 4173 in Crewe bus station

We waited around for something to catch. We saw Arriva NW&W 2931 on a #31 to Northwich.

Arriva NW&W 2931 in Crewe bus station

After a short while we saw Arriva NW&W 708 on a #38 to Macclesfield.

Arriva NW&W 708 in Crewe bus station

Whilst we waited for the bus to be readied for service we saw First Potteries 67655 on a #3 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67655 in Crewe bus station

We got on the bus and we booked Arriva NW&W Day Savers at £5.50 each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Delamere Street. We followed the road around to the right onto Chester Bridge past the site of the up and coming Little Dessert Shop. We crossed the railway line and onto Edleston Road. At the end of the long straight road we turned left onto the A534 and we ran past the railway station ans past B&Q. We traveled Eastwards along Crewe Road. We went through Haslington and Winterley and further North through Wheelock Heath. We crossed the A534 and we ran through Wheelock. We ran over the canal and into Sandbach town center past Sandbach School. When we got to the Common onto Congleton Road. We joined the A534 and we crossed over the M6 and into open countryside. and we crossed over the Arclid crossroads. On the edge of Congleton we joined the A34 and we ran East along the road for a short while before going onto West Street. We entered town along Antrobus Street, Mill Street and Mountbatten Way. We turned right into Market Street, past the Bear Grills cafe and into the bus station. We got off the bus and we took another picture of Arriva NW&W 708 before it carried on towards Macclesfield.

Arriva NW&W 708 in Congleton bus station

Once off the bus we walked down onto Mountbatten Way. We turned right onto Kinsey Street and at the top of the road we went into the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards Matthew had a glass of Coke. After we had finished we walked along Lawton Street and forwards onto High Street. As we considered going down Market Street as we waited to cross we saw Hollinshead Coaches SN66 WKZ on a #90 Bromley estate circular.

Hollinshead Coaches SN66 WKZ in Congleton

As we were about to cross the road we saw a white Solo arrive in the bus station. We went to investigate and we saw Hollinshead Coaches MX05 OUC on a #92 Buglawton circular.

Hollinshead Coaches MX05 OUC in Congleton bus station

We decided to do this bus so we got on and we booked singles at £1.50 each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. When it was time we set off up Market Street and we turned left onto High Street. We continued onto Lawton Street and we turned left onto Mountbatten Way. At the roundabout we Northwards up the A54 and we ran out of town for about half a mile. We turned left onto St Johns Road and we ran into the Buglawton estate. We turned left onto Wharfdale Road and right onto Harvey Road. At the end we turned right onto St Johns Road and we started heading back towards Congleton. We turned right onto the Southbound A54 and we ran into the town centre. WE turned right onto Mountbatten Way and we entered the bus station from the North End. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Hollinshead Coaches MX05 OUC.

Inside Hollinshead Coaches MX05 OUC

Once off the bus we walked past Bear Grills cafe into the car park and we saw black minibus YJ68 AVW.

YJ68 AVW in Congleton

We had around 1/2 hours for the bus bak towards Crewe so we had a walk around town. We went up Market Street and we turned right onto Bridge Street. Matthew took a photo of the old RBS bank which has yet to find a new use. We continued along Bridge Street and we turned right onto Mill Street. We walked across the car park and we went near to the back of Morrisons. We crossed Stonehouse Green and we walked up the back of the market and through the pedestrianised arcade onto Bridge Street. We turned left onto Bridge Street and we visited WH Smith. We brought a couple of bottle of soft drinks and 3 chocolate bars. We walked onto Walked Street and Matthew visited the toilet at the top end of the bus station. We returned to the bus stop and Matthew ate a Bounty. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As expected it was Arriva NW&W 708 on a #38 to Crewe.

Arriva NW&W 708 in Congleton bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Day Saver ticket to the driver for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and onto market Street and we ran down the hill onto Mountbatten Way. We turned left onto Mill Street and we climbed the hill, turning right onto West Street. At the roundabout we went straight onto the A34 and at the following junction we went straight ahead onto the A534. We went out of town through West Heath and then out into open countryside. We crossed the A50 at the Arclid crossroads. On the west side of the M6 we left the A534 and turned right onto Congleton Road and we ran into Sandbach Common where we saw Arriva NW&W 2931 on a #37A to Northwich. After a brief stop we continued on our journey. After a brief stop we went Westwards out of the town onto Crewe Road and through Wheelock. We crossed the A534 and we ran through Wheelock Heath and Winterly, passed the pond. We continued into Haslington and turned left onto Crewe Road and we re-joined the B5077 towards Crewe Green. We crossed over the roundabout onto the Westbound A534 and we ran towards Crewe railway station. We past the railway station and we continued for around 1/2 mile before turning right into Edlestone Road. We ran into town crossing over the railway line. Due to Chester Bridge being closed in one direct we turned right onto the A5078 and we ran forwards onto the A5019. We turned left Earle Street and left onto Prince Albert Street. We turned right onto Chester Street and right onto Market Street. We followed the road around onto Delamere Street and we turned right into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked onto Victoria Street and we saw Arriva NW&W 4410 on a #31 to Northwich.

Arriva NW&W 4410 in Crewe

We headed back to the car and we met up with mum who had left her car keys back at home. She was waiting with sausage rols and a bottle of Irn Bru for Matthew. We got in the car and we set off onto the Eastbound A532 and we turned right onto Vernon Way. We turned left onto Earle Street and we continued onto Manchester Bridge. We turned right onto Macon Way and we we crossed over the roundabout onto Weston Road. We turned right onto David Whitby Way and left onto the A500. We ran under the M6 and as we continued South we came to an incident on the road and the road narrowed to a single lane. We saw Adams Travel EG16 FYD as we waited to merge into the other Lane.

Adams Travel EG16 FYD on A500

We passed the broken down vehicle and we passed Bullocks RB11 BUL, Alfa 72, Terry Bushell A13 TBT, and unidentified National Express liveried coach (#540), MT Travel HK58 ECV, an unidentified white minibus and an unidentified grey coach as we travelled Southwards. We turned left onto the A50 and we saw Alfa 109. As we were coming off the A50 at Longton Matthew took a picture of Terry Bushell A13 TBT.

Terry Bushell A13 TBT on A50

we came off the A50 at Longton and we headed to Z Carz to see what was parked up in the compound on Willow Row. We saw Z Carz Citroen minibus LV59 DZC.

Z Carz LV59 DZC in Longton

Also seen was Z Carz Mercedes minibus CE02 LYX.

Z Carz CE02 LYX in Longton

Another vehicle seen was Z Carz Mercedes minibus KE03 JXC.

Z Carz KE03 JXC in Longton

We turned around and headed back onto Edensor Road and we saw Lucky Seven KE54 ARM.

Lucky Seven KE54 ARM in Longton

We got back onto the A50 and we went Westwards to Heron Cross. We turned left onto Blurton Road and we ran through Blurton. We ran forwards onto Church Street and we turned right into Beaconsfield Drive. We got home around 18:15. For a late tea we had bangers and mash with carrots followed by a slice of red velvet cake. We spent time doing the e-mails and doing the Blog. We chilled out on the computer and watching telly until 01:00... Mark

Trip to Newcastle 02-08-2011

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
40003	ladybank Grove, Blurton	Stoke railway station	23	First Potteries
66838	Stoke railway station	Newcastle town centre, the Alma inn PH (adj)	25	First Potteries
40139	hartshill, Kingswell Road (adj)	Stoke-upon-Trent, Lytton Street (adj)	26	First Potteries
60074	Stoke-upon-Trent, Lytton Street (opp)	Church Street, Stoke	25	First Potteries
66839	Church Street, Stoke	Stoke railway station	25	First Potteries
2931	Stoke railway station	Stanley Matthews Way, Hem Heath	500	Wardle Transport

Matthew hadn't been out yet this month, and as he had been quite good today I decided to take him out for an hour or two. We were ready about 30 minutes earlier than usual, so I decided we could go to the railway station on the other 23 diagram, the one that is almost always 40003. we went to the Ladybank grove stop tonight and after a few minutes sure enough 40003 turned up!


40003 in Blurton on it's usual 23 turn (Matt)

As we were earlier. I thought we could potentially cover all 3 buses on the #25 service, as well as one of the buses on the #26. This would of course depend on if all the buses were running to time. We did 40003 to Stoke railway station, and as it was on time we were able to casually cross the road to wait for the Keele bound #25 service. After a couple of minutes 66838 appeared on the service. I had worried Star Travel Minibus out that we should pass the next #25 outside stoke and we could go to the Alma and catch a #26 back to stoke for this bus. Going up Harsthill bank we passed 60074 on the Hanley bound #25 which was required! we got off outside the Alma and Matthew photographed the bus as it sped off...


66838 heads towards Newcastle on a #25 to Keele (Matt)

We got off the bus and head to the next bus stop towards Stoke. In hindsight we should have gone the other way as it was about 1/4 mile! after a short while 40139 turned up on the service. Initially I thought it was a bus that Matthew required, but I remembered it was the second bus we had the first time we had been to Chester specifically to ride on buses. we did this bus to Lytton Street, where once again Matthew got a shot.


Ex Chester Dart 40139 heading towards Longton on a #26 (Matt)

The plan was now, if the #23 was on time we would do it to Stoke station and pick up 60074 there, otherwise, just stay put and have a short ride on 60074. 40155 was indeed a couple of minutes late on the #23 Hanley, and we stayed put to make sure we got 40155. 60074 eventually rounded the corner. we did it to stoke and Matthew got a shot.


Purple 'W' 60074 on a #25 to Keele (Matt)

we crossed the road and waited about a minute before the next Hanley bound #25, this one was 66839 which we have had recently. we did it to the station and Matthew got a picture.


66839 on a #25 outside stoke railway station (Matt)

We then had 10 minutes to wait, before the #50, we did this by photographing the coaches behind the North Stafford hotel, and then sitting on the steps next to the bus stop. Todays #500 was 2931 which was the same as last time we did it. at journey end we crossed the road and then photographed the bus as it wait time for the return journey.


Wardle Transport 2931 at journey end on the #500 (Matt)

Afterwards we walked back home in darkness...Mark

Trip to Stoke 25-07-2011

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
40154	Waterside Drive, Shepley Grove	Stoke railway station	23	First Potteries
66847	Stoke railway station	Church Street, Stoke	25	First Potteries
66841	Church Street, Stoke	Stoke railway station	25	First Potteries
2931	Stoke railway station	Stanley Matthews Way, Hem Heath	500	Wardle Transport

Matthew has been away with respite, so I decided to take him out tonight to ride a few buses. I had seen 40379 earlier and because of the time I had assumed it was going to be on the 23A evening diagram. The bus was not required, but it had been a while since we had been on this bus. We walked to the stop in Newstead, and from he stop you could see a factory which had been on fire early that evening. When an ALX200 turned the corner we were most surprised! With only 3 AG allocated ALX200 to choose from, it turned out to be 40154. This was another bus that was not required, but we had been nearly 3 years since we last went on this bus too! As it pulled up at the stop, Matthew got a good picture...


40154 in Newstead (Matt)

We did the journey to Stoke which was relatively uneventful. There was a man on the bus who wanted to go to Dresden, but was not aware that this bus was only going to Newstead as most evening service don't go to Longton. He was advised to get off in Fenton and catch the #26. Just after he was dropped of we passed a Marshall bodied Dart on a #26, so that would have worked out quite well for him. As we got of we looked across the road to see 1 person at the stop. We must have missed the #25 Keele... Matthew took a picture of the bus we had traveled down on.


40154 outside Stoke railway station (Matt)

After we took the picture, we saw the #25 Keele so we ran across the road to catch it. It was required Volvo 66847 with the silver 'W'. We did the short trip into Stoke town centre and we did not pass the #25 hanley. As we got off to take the picture of 66847, 66841 pulled up on the opposite side of the road and Matthew took a snap picture. In the end we weren't able to get a picture of 66847.


Here's one he took earlier...66847 as seen on the 10th July (Matt)


66841 in Stoke (Matt)

We crossed the road and were just able to get on it. When we got back to the station Matthew was able to get another better picture using his timer to holder the camera steadier.


66841 outside Stoke railway station (Matt)

Round the back of the north Staffs hotel was a national holidays coach which Matthew was able to get a picture of by using a post to steady his camera and using his timer again. It did take a couple of attempt to get a shot with no car in front of it. after we sat and waited for the #500. Tonight it was another Solo, 2931 (BU54 ALL) which we had been on a few week previously on the #58. We did the journey now in darkness. Matthew photographed some of the passenger notices inside the bus. What he did not photograph was the 3" high Spongebob Squarepants sticker under the handrail next to the ticket machine! . It's the little details like this that make buses so individual. We got off on Stanley Matthews Way and then crossed the road to photographed the bus before it's return.


Wardle Transport Solo 2931 (BU54 ALL) on Stanley Matthews Way (Matt)

After taking a few pictures with the aid of posts and timers we set off on the long walk home...Mark.

Trip to Stone 18-06-2011

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
182	Trentham Road,	Granville Square, Stone	351	Bakerbus
110	Granville Square, Stone	Prior Road	2	D&G
110	Prior Road	Granville Square, Stone	2	D&G
91	Granville Square, Stone	Stone, Geoff Keys Garage (opp)‎	490	D&G
183	Stone, Geoff Keys Garage (opp)‎	Whitebridge Estate, Filleybrooks Garage (opp)	350	Bakerbus
65039	Whitebridge Estate, Filleybrooks Garage (adj)	Granville Square, Stone	101	First Potteries
200	Stone	Stoke Railway Station	X1	Bakerbus
6	Stoke Railway Station	Church Street, Stoke	41	D&G
115	Church Street, Stoke	Stoke Railway Station	41	D&G
2931	Signal Radio, Stoke road	Maternity Ward, City General	58	Wardle Transport

Today we had decided we were going to head towards Stone again and cover the 350's and the X1. We also saw a Mercedes minibus on the Stone town service last week and as we havn't been on any of the current minibuses we thought that this would probably a new bus for Matthew. Today I went out at 09:30 and 10:30 to see the 350's. The bus buses were on exactly the same turns as last week, so we knew there was one required bus out on the 350. Setting off just before 12:30, we decided to head South on the 350 today so we waited at the bus shelter on Trentham Road. this was a fortunate choice today because it was raining! Whilst we were waiting we saw 181 go north on the #350, 40143 heading towards Newcastle and 40148 heading towards Longton.


40148 on a Longton bound #22 service (Matt)

As the 351 goes from Stoke to Longton before continuing towards Stone, This South bound turn is a few minutes later than the other buses. Eventually as predicted 182 arrives on this turn. This turn is quite well filled compared to some of the other 350's we've done. Presumably because of it's extra run into Longton. We do this bus to Granville Square, Stone where Matthew gets a picture.


Bakerbus 182 in Granville Square Stone (Matt)

Shortly after we arrive in Stone, D&G 110 appears on the Stone town services. The next one was a #2 at 13:05. We book our tickets and we do a complete circle of this service. As we get off Matthew photographs the inside of this bus.


Inside D&G 110 (Matt)

He also gets a good picture of the outside too...


D&G 110 about to work a #1 Stone town service (Matt)

The next planned move was to do the #490 round town and out along Newcastle Road. Whilst we were waiting we started eating our supplies (a 6 pack of mini sausage rolls from wrights Pies). Also D&G 107 appears on the #250 to Longton.


D&G 107 on a 250 to Longton (Matt)

A couple of minutes later D&G 110 come back again to work another #2 town service.


D&G 110 about to work a #2 Stone town service

After that town service leaves again we wait patiently until the 490 appears. It's D&G 91 which is a required bus. As we went around town and headed North, I couldn't remember passing the southbound 350. I thought if we could catch this to the other side of Stone, we could do 183 on the Northbound service back out along Newcastle Road. We got off the 490 on Newcastle Road and Matthew took a picture as D&G 91 headed North(??) towards Stafford...


D&G 91 heading North on the 490 to Stafford (Matt)

We crossed the road hoping that we might catch the 350, but it must have passed us whilst we were going around the town centre. After a few minute we crossed back over the road. I decided we could still do 183 a couple of stops up the road, and we would either get a 101 or the X1 back into Stone. Sure enough, as predicted 183 appears on the Northbound 350.


Bakerbus 183 on a #350 to Hanley in Newcastle Road (Matt)

We do the bus a couple of stops up the road and Matthew is undoing his seatbelt almost as soon as it was done up!


183 continues North towards Hanley (Matt)

In order to make sure we are back in Stone for either X1'a (Bakerbus to Hanley or the D&G to Stone) we decided to do the next bus whatever it is. it started rain quite heavily, but we didn't have to wait long. We were relieved to see the next bus, which happened to be first Potteries 65039.


65039 on a #101 towards Stafford (Matt)

We did this back down to Granville Square, where almost immediately we saw Bakerbus 200 on the X1 Stone. We Rushed off to get this bus and missed seeing what was on the X1 Stafford. After a rapid journey up the A34, through Barlaston, past Trentham gardens and up The A500 we arrived at Stoke railway station.


Bakerbus 200 outside Stoke railway station (Matt)

At this point, we had planned on sitting for a while and having something to eat then doing something D&G or Bakerbus on the tickets we already had. We had to put plans for eating to one side as step entranced D&G 6 appeared on a Newcastle bound #41. We raced a cross the road and jumped on the bus. No time for a photograph, we did this bus to Church Street, Stoke. he did get a picture of the door release as he left the bus, but once again the bus left the stop quite quickly. In Stoke we saw a few buses including D&G 139 on a Hanley bound #41.


D&G 139 on a #41 to Hanley (Matt)

The plan had been to catch 183 on the 350 back to Blurton. Just as 350 was approaching, Matthew spotted D&G 12 on a #41 to Newcastle. We let the #350 go, forgetting the #41 doesn’t stop in Glebe Street and it went sailing past too. We went around to Church Street but it had left before we could get to the stop :-(. Almost immediately, D&G 115 appeared from the other direction on a #41 so we decided to do this back to the railway station.


D&G 115 on a #41 to Hanley (Matt)

When we arrived at the station I was starting to wonder how we could get home. I remember I had the Wardle Transport timetable book in my bag so I looked up the route and timings of the 58. Last time i had seen this service it was ex Arriva Burton 2038 in the new Wardle / Arriva livery. It turned out there was a 58 from outside signal radio in a few minutes, so we walked along to stoke Road. I arranged with mum to pick us up at the hospital. After a couple of minutes Wardle Transport 'BU54 ALL' 2931 appeared.


Wardle Transport 2931 on a #58 to Newcastle (Matt)

We did this to the hospital where we had about a 10 minutes wait for mum. Luckily there was a shelter because it started raining again. Whilst we were waiting we didn't see a single bus. e did see 2 buses just as we got picked up. We had a quick stop in Hanford to pick up food and we went home. As we returned home by car it absolutely poured down with rain so it seems that we timed the end of our day quite well... Mark