Trip to Shrewsbury / Bicton Heath 17-01-2026

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
2511	Harlescott, opp Tesco	Shrewsbury BS	25	Arriva Midlands
2960	Shrewsbury BS	Gains Park, Opp Woodcrest Jct	11	Arriva Midlands
235	Gains Park, Opp Woodcrest Jct	Shrewsbury BS	X77	Tanat Valley
2984	Shrewsbury BS	Bicton Heath, The Woolhams Jct	11	Arriva Midlands
2960	Bicton Heath, The Woolhams Jct	Shrewsbury BS	11	Arriva Midlands
3692	Shrewsbury BS	Harlescott, opp Tesco	64	Arriva 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

Trip to Widnes / Runcorn 08-01-2022

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
5012	Widnes, Green Oaks	Runcorn BS	61	Arriva NW&W
3041	Runcorn BS	Halton Lea North	110	Arriva NW&W
3043	Halton Lea South	Murdishaw Central	1	Arriva NW&W
2960	Murdishaw Central	Halton Lea South	1	Arriva NW&W
5009	Halton Lea South	Runcorn BS	110	Arriva NW&W
3023	Runcorn BS	Halton Lea, Hospital	110	Arriva NW&W
3046	Halton Lea, Hospital	Halton Lea South	110	Arriva NW&W
5003	Halton Lea South	Runcorn BS	79C	Arriva NW&W
3136	Runcorn BS	Widnes, Green Oaks	79C	Arriva NW&W

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to Widnes. As long as no one gets ill we'll do a today. 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 67156 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67156 in Fenton

Matthew chilled out in his room before going out. We saw First Potteries 65038 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 65038 in Fenton

Matthew got his face mask and bag and got ready to go. We came around 11:30 and Matthew came downstairs and got in the car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. We checked the bag and Matthew realised that he had no batteries so we returned to the residential unit to pick them up. We set off onto Wheildon Road and we turned left onto Smithpool Road and we saw Travel Express BG61 KTK. We turned right onto Temple Street and we stopped at the residential unit. We collected his batteries and and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned right onto Smithpool Road and left onto City Road. We ran down the hiull into Stoke and we went under the railway line. We crossed over the the A500 and we turned right onto Northbound A500. Travelling up the A500 we saw Scragg’s VT 9389. The A500 was quite bus as far as Longport and afterwards it eased off a little. We ran into Cheshire and we joined the Northbound M6 at junction 16. As we went up the M6 we saw Paul’s of Stoke Y13 POS, Brittannia Travel S100 KKE, Afford rent-a-car HV70 RTZ, Anthony's Travel P30 ANT and Llew Jones BG65 TGU(#207). We left the M6 at junction 21A and we went Westwards along the M62 to junction 7. We went Southwards down the A557 and we turned right to run up to Green Oaks Way. We past the entrance to the bus station and we turn ed left into the car park. We parked up and we set off over the bus station towards the market. On the way we saw required Network Warrington 80 on a #32 to Warrington. We walked into the market and we went to the back corner of the market. Matthew went to the adjacent toilet whilst mum ordered the food and uncle Dave saved he table. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a small bottle of Coke. When we had finished eating we said goodbye to mum and walked through the market back to the bus stops. Whilst we waited for the next bus to Runcorn we saw Network Warrington 88 on a #32 to Warrington. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was required Arriva NW&W 5012 on a #61 to Palacefields. We got on the bus and we booked Halton Hopper Day tickets at £.530 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off onto Green Oaks Way and we turned right onto Gerrards Street. We ran forwards onto Milton Road and we turned left onto the B5419. We went near to the site where are currently developing a new leisure centre on Moor Lane. We went through the old town and across the roundabout onto Victoria Road. We turned right onto Hutchinson Road and we joined the the A533. We crossed over the Jubilee Bridge. We crossed the bridge into Runcorn and we wheeled around onto Station Road and into the old town. We crossed over the canal and past 'The Archers' pub and onto the High Street. We turned into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. We decided to catch the next Arriva bus towards Halton Lea. Whilst we waited we saw MP Travel MP20 BUS on a X1 to Halton Hospital. A few minutes later we saw dud Arriva NW&W 3041 on a #110 to Murdishaw. We got on the bus and we flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and onto Church Street. We ran forwards onto Leiria Way and at the first roundabout we ran forwards onto the busway. We ran the industrial areas around Astmoor and under the Mersey Gateway bridge. We joined Castlefield Avenue East and we got onto the busway at the corner of Tyrrel Way by the McColls Store. We ran through the Castlefields area and we stopped at the library side of the Halton Lea shopping centre where we got up and got off the bus. After taking a few bus pictures we set off to go into the shopping centre. There was an old lady who was struggling to get to the shopping centre due to there being an elevated walkway and her being quite afraid of heights. I helped her to the lift and I also guided he out of the lift into the shopping centre after I had walked down the stairs. We walked through the shopping centre and we went to the toilets. After we had used the toilets we headed over to the South side of the shopping centre where the Runcorn bound buses stop. A few minutes later we saw required Arriva NW&W 3043 on a #1 Halton Lea circular service. We got on the bus and we flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set offf out of the bus station along the busway and we went clockwise around the large circuit. We passed Pheonix park and we continued past Castlefields and Windmill Hill. We past close to Runcorn East railway station and then we emerged into the Murdishaw turning circle. We got up and got off the bus and we turned down a bus so that we could visit the Co-operative Food store. Matthew brought a can of Coke and a small bottle of Irn Bru as well as a couple of chocolate bars. We went outside and we saw required Arriva NW&W 2960 arrive on a #1 Halton Lea circular service. We got on the bus and flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off around the turning circle and onto the Southbound busway we ran through the Palacefields area and past Halton Hospital. We continued down to the Halton Lea shopping centre and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw Arriva NW&W 3045 on a #82A to Liverpool. We waited for the next bus back to Runcorn. A few minutes later dud Arriva NW&W 5009 on a #110 to Warrington. We got on the bus and we flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus stattion onto busway, and we went around an Asda store and North under the Halton Link Road. The busway was on a sweeping curve to the right and we went through the middle of the Castlefields area and we saw Arriva NW&W 2574 on a #110 to Murdishaw. After around 3/4 of a mile we left the busway and went forwards on Tyrell Way. We followed the road around to the left and we turned left onto Castlefields Avenue East. We crossed over the A558 Daresbury Expressway and we turned left onto another busway. We ran Westwards through the Astmoor area of town. The busway crossed over road every couple of hundred yards and there were traffic lights which usually turned to green and we approached them. We also passed under the Southern end of the Mersey Gateway bridge. We went under the B5155 adjacent to the canal and we turned right at a roundabout off the busway onto Lieria Way with the town centre in sight. We ran down the hill and we turned left into the bus station. Once we got to the station we got up and got off the bus. Across the other side was Arriva NW&W 3041 on a #110 to Warrington. A few minutes later we saw Ashcroft's Travel HIG 5671 on the #52 Beechwood Circular service. We turned left onto Church Street and we went to The Little Dessert Shop. For afters Matthew had a red velvet cheesecake with custard. when we had finished we walked along Church Street and we continued through to the bus station. A few minutes later we saw dud Arriva NW&W 3023 on a #110 to Murdishaw. We got on the bus and we flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and onto Church Street. We ran forwards onto Leiria Way and at the first roundabout we ran forwards onto the busway. We ran the industrial areas around Astmoor and under the Mersey Gateway bridge. We joined Castlefield Avenue East and we got onto the busway at the corner of Tyrrel Way by the McColls Store. We ran through the Castlefields area and we stopped at the library side of the Halton Lea shopping centre. The Eastbound busway calls at the library on an elevated road. After a brief stop we continued to the hospital where the bus terminated. We got off the bus. We crossed the road and we decided to walk up to the turning circle to get pictures as there were buses parked up there. We walked up the path and we saw Arriva NW&W 661 on a #3A to Murdishaw. Once we had looked at the buses at the turning circle we walked back to the Westbound side of the road. We deciced to do the next C79 towards Widnes and we saw Arriva NW&W 3046 on a #110 to Warrington. We got on the bus and we flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver before sitting down towards the rear of the bus. We set off along the busway towards the Halton Lea shopping centre that were very run down and the we circle around onto the Southway and into the bus station. We got up and got off. a few minutes later we saw MP Travel N270 KKH on a X1 to Liverpool. As it got closer we saw it was required Arriva NW&W 5003 on a #79C to Liverpool. We got on the bus and we flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver before sat down towards the back of the bus We sat down towards the back of the bus and we set off along the Busway. We carried on West onto Grangeway. We ran through Higher Runcorn and we turned right onto Clifton Road. We ran through onto Moughland Lane and we joined Greenway Road. We ran fast onto the A533 and we turned right over the canal onto Leiria Way and into Runcorn town centre. After stopping the bus station. We got off the bus and it was at this point Matthew decided to go to the pub across the road. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards he had a glass of Coke. Once he had finished his drink we re-joined uncle Dave who waited outside and we went back up to the bus station. We decided back to Widnes. A few minutes later we saw Arriva NW&W 2574 on the #110 to Murdishaw. As it got closer we saw that it was dud Arriva NW&W 3136 on the #79C to Liverpool. We got on the bus and we flashed the Halton Hopper Day tickets to the driver for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off up the High Street and we passed close to the Waterloo pub as was and we joined the A533. We crossed over the Mersey and we ran into Waterloo Road. the old town of Widnes up Victoria Road. We climbed the hill along Victoria Road. We crossed over the roundabout and we ran through a bus lane into the Asda car park. We joined onto Gerrard Street past Marks & Spencers and we turned left onto Green Oaks Way. We we got to the bus stops by Green Oaks we got up and got off the bus. Mum had moved the car to a space by the bus station but she hadn't got back from the shops, so we waited in the bus station taking a few pictures. A few minutes later we saw required Arriva NW&W 5015 on a #61 to Runcorn. A few minutes later mum turned up and we got in the car. Matthew had a Greggs sausage roll and a small bottle of Irn Bru. We set off onto Green Oaks Way and we turned right onto Gerrards Street. We ran forwards onto Milton Road and we turned left onto the B5419. We turned left onto the B5419. Victoria Road. We climbed the hill along Victoria Road. We crossed over the roundabout and we ran through a bus lane into the Asda and we parked up. We went into the supermarket and Matthew used the toilet. Afterwards we went into the McDonalds and we had tea. Matthew had a burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. After eating his food Matthew went to the toilet. When we had finished we set off onto Widnes Road and we turned right onto Brynn Street. We joined onto Gerrard Street past Marks & Spencers and we turned left onto Green Oaks Way and we did a U-turn at the roundabout and headed Southwards. We turned left at the roundabout and we joined the Northbound A557. We ran the 3 miles or so up to the M62 and we got onto the Eastbound M62. We ran for around 8 miles to junction 10 and we joined the Southbound M6. As we travlled down the M6 and as we travelled towards home we saw Osborne of Irlam K55 RDO, Parks of Hamilton LSK 807, an unidentifled Hartley's minicoach, an unidentified Flixbus coach (#023) and white minibus DK04 MWE. At junction 16 we went South down the A500. As we travelled South we saw Roseville DY65 MDN, Lucky Seven DU66 CJF and an unidentified Roy McCarthy coach. We came off the A500 at Stoke and we headed Southwards before veering left onto Whieldon Road. We dropped off uncle Dave. Matthew got back in the car and we continued up Whieldon Road. We turned left onto Smithpool Road and right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew also drank a bottle of Buddies Cherryade. Matthew chilled out in his room watching television and using his computer. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Market Drayton / Shrewsbury 04-07-2020

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
63097	Fenton, adj Royal Oak	Stoke, adj stop Q	23	First Potteries
67652	Hanley, Hinde Street	Newcastle BS	11	First Potteries
2960	Newcastle BS	Market Drayton BS	164	Arriva Midlands
2978	Market Drayton BS	Shrewsbury BS	64	Arriva Midlands
3735	Shrewsbury BS	Telford BS	19	Arriva Midlands
2976	Telford BS	Shrewsbury, The Square	X5	Arriva Midlands
2985	Shrewsbury BS	Much Wenlock, Stretton Jct	436	Arriva Midlands
2986	Much Wenlock, Garage	Shrewsbury BS	436	Arriva Midlands
3102	Shrewsbury BS	Harlescott, Tesco	24	Arriva Midlands

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. we was also going to the Shrewsbury 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 Temple Street Church minibus RX18 GZW. we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. In the distance we saw Temple Street church minibus RX18 GZW. We carried on along Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We waited for a bus towards Hanley. After a short wait we saw First Potteries 63097 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Day ticket 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. Once off the bus we walked along Church Street and we visited the Stoke Cafe. Matthew went to the toilet and I ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished we set off onto Church Street and we walked up to the Newcastle bus stop. Whilst we waited for the bus we saw First Potteries 67652 on a #11 to Newcastle. 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. 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 waited for a bus towards the hospital. A short time later we saw Arriva Midlands 2960 on a #164 to Market Drayton. we got on the bus 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 of the bus station onto Barracks Road. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A34 and at the next roundabout we turned left onto the A53. We ran out of Newcastle and under the M6 and over the A5182 roundabout. We ran through Whitmore and Baldwins Gate and we turned left onto Sandy Lane. We veered right onto Woodside and we ran to the end into Chorlton Hill. We turned right onto the A51 and we ran Westwards past the A53 junction and the Swan with Two Necks. We turned left past The Croft and we re-joined the A53 further down the road. We turned left onto Church Road and we ran into Ashley onto Gravelly Hill. We rejoined the A53 and we ran into Loggerheads. We continued along the A53 and we veered left onto Newcastle Road. We ran into Market Drayton and we turned right onto Smithfield Road. We turned left onto Frogmore Road and we entered market Drayton bus station. We had a 30 minute break here and Matthew decided to visit the adjacent public toilet. The toilets were right by the entrance. Once we had used the facilities we walked back into the bus station we looked for nsomething suitable to catch and we spotted Arriva Midlands 2978 on a #64 to Shrewsbury. We got on the bus 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. We re-joined Frogmore Road and we turned right at the end onto Shropshire Street. We continued forwards onto Shrewsbury Road and at the end we re-joined the Southbound A53. We continued down to the A41 and we turned right. We turned left onto the A53 and we headed South. a few miles down the road we turned right to run into another village before returning to the A53. We continued through Shabury and past Harlescott and into Shrewsbury town centre. We went under the railway line and we turned right onto the A458. We came up alongside the river and we turned left into the bus station. Once off the bus we crossed over to the layover area. We saw Arriva Midlands 3735 on a #19 to Telford. we got on the bus 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 and we joined the A528. We turned right onto the A5191. We went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate. We turned right onto A5064 and we continued onto Emstrey. We carried on up A5064 were we passed Arriva Midlands 3734 on the #19 to Shrewsbury. We continued onto Emstrey Bank and we ran past Salop Leisure Centre. We headed through Atcham and we ran forwards onto the B5061. We went into Wroxeter and we went through Lower Longwood. We ran into Overley and we continued along the B4380. We ran through Leighton and we went through Buildwas. We crossed over the A4169 and we turned right onto Much Wenlock Road. We turned left into Buildwas Road and we turned onto Wharfage. We ran up the hill and into Coalbrookdale. We turned left into Dale End. We ran forwards onto Wellington Road. We ran forwards onto Jiggers Bank and we ran into Horsehay. We turned right onto the A4169. We turned right onto Lightmoor Way and we ran forwards onto Little Flint. We turned left onto Little Meadow Mews and we ran forwards onto Ellens Bank. We ran forwards onto Wellington Road and we climbed the hill into Horsehay. We ran forwards onto Bridge Road and we ran forwards onto Station Road. We turned left onto Springhill Road and We ran into Heath Hill and we ran forwards Dawley Road. We ran down into Lawley and we turned right onto Proctor Ave. We turned left onto Bryce Way before turning right onto the ring road. We ran down into Lawley Bank and we turned left onto Station Road. We ran down the hill towards Overdale and we turned right into Milners Lane. We ran up Concorde and we turned left onto Bank Road. We ran forwards onto Cemetery Road and we turned right Milners Lane. We turned right onto West Centre Way and we ran towards Telford and we turned right at the roundabout onto Malinsgate wehere we saw Arriva Midlands 3732 on the #19 to Shrewsbury. We ran onto Northfield Street and we entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we decided to catch something quite quickly. The old entrance to the shopping centre so we walked up and down to try and find a way into the shopping centre. We went out of the bus station where we saw Arriva Midlands 3322 on the #4 to Madeley. we visited Costa Coffee. Matthew had a piece of millionaire's shortbread and a cup of Coke. Once we had used the facilities we walked back into the bus station we looked for nsomething suitable to catch and we spotted Arriva Midlands 2976 on a X5 to Shrewsbury. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Northfield Street. We turned right onto Hall Park Way and we ran down to the motorway. We joined Westbound M54 and forwards onto the A5. We saw Arriva Midlands 2957 on a X5 to Telford. We ran fast for around 20 minutes to the edge of Shrewsbury on to the Southern by-pass. We turned right onto A5064 and we headed Northwards into town. We ran past Lord Hill's Column and we saw Arriva Midlands 3695 on a #8 to Sutton Farm. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate and as we approached the Abbey. We went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Wyle Cop and we passed Arriva Midlands 2958 on a #27 to Bayston Hill. We turned right into High Street and we got off the bus. we set off onto High Street and we went right onto Pride Hill and we headed through Darwin Shopping Centre and we stopped at Home Bargains. We bought a can of Coke and Freddo Caramel bar and we set off along Raven Meadows back to the bus station. We looked up the time of the next #436 bus up to Much Wenlock. A few minutes later we saw Arriva Midlands 2985 on a #436 to Harlescott. we got on the bus 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 joined the A528 and we turned right onto the A5191. We went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A458. We ran into Cross Houses and we ran through Cressage and we continued onto Sheinton Road. We turned right onto Severn Way and we turned left onto the A458. We ran into Harley and we ran through Much Wenlock and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked up to A458 and we turned left onto High Street. We turned right into Barrow Street and we walked onto High Street. We went around the corner to The George & Dragon Inn. Matthew went to the toilet and we brought a glass of Coke. We walked back onto High Street. We walked to the end of High Street and we stopped at the benches at the end to eat the Freddo Caramel bar and drink the can of barr cherryade. We walked onto Bridgnorth Road. and we waited at the bus stop for a bus back to Shrewsbury. Where we saw Arriva Midlands 3736 on a #18 to Telford. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 2986 on a #436 to Shrewsbury. we got on the bus 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 St Mary's Road and right onto the A458 and we ran into Harley. We turned right onto Severn Way and we turned left onto Sheinton Road. We ran through Cressage and we ran into Cross Houses. We ran forwards onto Abbey Foregate and we went around the English Bridge Gyratory and we crossed over the bridge. We ran forwards onto Wyle Cop and we passed Arriva Midlands 2980 on a #27 to Bayston Hill. We followed the one-way system around town and we turned right onto Barker Street. We turned right onto the A458 and we turned right into the bus station. Once off the bus we crossed over to the layover area we saw Arriva Midlands 2989. We looked up the time of the next #24 or #25 bus up to Harlescott. A few minutes later we saw Arriva Midlands 3102 on a #24 to Harlescott. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver for what turned out to be the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. Whilst we waited for departure time we saw Arriva Midlands 3512 on a X70 to Oswestry. We set off of the bus station onto the A458. We joined the A528 and we followed the one-way system under the railway line. We turned left onto the A5191 and we ran Northwards. We turned right onto Newpark Road. We turned left onto Sultan Road and at the end we re-joined the Northbound A5191. We ran North to the roundabout and we turned right on the B5062. We turned left onto Featherbed Lane and right onto Alberbury Drive. We follwed the road through the estate and we turned right onto Featherbed Lane. We turned right onto Arlington Way and we crossed over the A5191 and we ran forwards onto road past the bus garage and Tesco. We stopped behind Tesco and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we we walked up towards the car. On the way we saw Arriva Midlands 3693 on a Park & Ride service. Matthew wanted to go to the toilet, but the toilet block by the Park & Ride was locked up. We got in the car and we drove to KFC. Matthew used the toilet Matthew had a chickenburger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. We got back in the car We set off out off the Park & Ride sight onto the Northbound A5112. We joined the Northbound A53 and we travelled through Upper Astley for around 5 miles and into Shawbury. As we ran up 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 and we ran up towards Sideway. We joined the Eastbound A50 and we ran up Longton. We came off the A50 at Longton and we headed for Z Carz. We turned into Willow Row and we saw Z Carz Peugeot minibus SJ61 OPK. We came off onto the high level A50 and we turned right onto Baths Road. We ran down King Street. We continued down onto City Road and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple street and we we returned to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to chill out and use the computer. He also watched buses out of the window. Later on we saw Afford rent-a-car's KV19 NVB in their garage.

Afford rent-a-car KV19 NVB in Fenton

A few minutes later we saw Lucky Seven SA08 WCK going towards Stoke.

Lucky Seven DK11 BVX in Fenton

Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. He also had the rest of the cheesecake!. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 14-08-2018

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
63176	Fenton, Victoria Place	Hanley BS	6A	First Potteries
65035	Hanley BS	Trentham Gardens (opp)	101	First Potteries
65033	Trentham Gardens, adj Poachers Cottage PH	Newcastle BS	101	First Potteries
63100	Newcastle BS	Fenton, Smithpool Road	11	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to his day service. He was also going to Trentham Gardens. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Whilst waiting to go to the day service we saw First Potteries 42554 on a #23 to Hanley. we set off on foot to the day centre. We walked onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street and to the day centre. At the day centre we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX parked outside.

Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX in Fenton

In the morning Matthew went on the computer. For dinner Matthew had a ham sandwich followed by Bakewell Tart. In the afternoon Matthew went to Hanley on the bus. We set off on foot onto City Road. We crossed over City Road and we walked up to Victoria Place to wait for a bus to Hanley. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 63176 on a #6A to Hanley.

First Potteries 63176 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down. We set off down Victoria Road and we crossed over the A52 at Joiners Square. We ran up Lichfield Street and we crossed over the ring road. We got up and got off the bus at the stop outside the bus station. Whilst we waited we saw Edwards Coaches National Express liveried coach BX16 CJE on a #528 service to Haverfordwest and First Potteries 67651 on a #4 to Audley. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 65035 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 65035 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Trentham Gardens. The bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside First Potteries 65035 before sitting down towards the back of the bus.

Inside First Potteries 65035

We set off through the bus station where we saw dud Arriva Midlands 2960 on a #164 to Market Drayton. and onto John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and left onto Broad Street. We ran down the hill and over the ring road onto Snow Hill Before we turned right onto Shelton New Road and headed up towards Newcastle. We went over the crossroads and at the roundabout we went straight across onto George Street. We headed down the hill and onto Barracks Road before entering Newcastle bus station. After a short wait at the bus station we carried on Southwards down the A34 past the hospital and through Trent Vale we saw First Potteries 67636 on a #22 to Newcastle. We crossed under the A500 into Hanford and we continued South into Trentham and past Trentham Gardens and we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over the road and we went to the gardens. Matthew went to the retail village and visited the toilet block. After we continued into the retail village and we went to Pieminister. Matthew had piece of millionaire's shortbread and a glass of Coke. When we had finished we returned to the bus stop. We walked out of the garden and we walked Northwards up the A34. We waited for the next bus back to Newcastle. Whilst we waited we saw ABC Supreme KX08 UXE going towards Newcastle. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 65033 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 65033 in Trentham Gardens

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off Northwards through Trentham. We continued North through Hanford and Trent Vale and we past the City General hospital before going into Newcastle. We turned right onto Barracks Road and we entered the bus station from the South end. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we waited for the next bus back Fenton. Whilst we waited we saw First Potteries 67155 on a #99 to Chell Heath. A few minutes later a bus appeared and it was First Potteries 65039 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 65039 in Newcastle bus station

Eventually our bus appeared. As it got closer we saw that it was First Potteries 63100 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63100 in Newcastle bus station

We booked to Fenton and as the rear of the bus was empty Matthew took a picture inside First Potteries 63100 before we sat down.

Inside First Potteries 63100

the bus waiting to depart, we saw required Arriva Midlands 3697 on a #164 to Hanley. 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 we saw First Potteries 67648 on a #11 to Newcastle. Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to chill out. Matthew went to JTF on foot. We set off onto Christchurch Street right onto City Road. At the roundabout we turned right and walked past KFC and into JTF. Matthew went upstairs to the cafe and had toast and a drink of Coke. When we had finished we walked back to the residential. We set off past KFC and onto City Road before turning left into Christchurch Street and onto Temple Street. Later on Matthew went to Grandma's. Matthew went downstairs and out of the residential unit. We went to Grandma's in a car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Chrsitchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road and we ran down to the A52. We went under the railway line and over the A500 into Stoke. We went around the one-way system and up Hartshill Road and into Harshill. We turned left onto the Avenue and we ran to the end where we turned right onto the A34. We turned off the A34 and we stopped at Grandma's house. Matthew went on the computer and had a can of Irn Bru. For tea Matthew had shepherds pie followed by treacle tart and custard. Staff came to pick Matthew up in the car and Matthew said goodbye to Grandma and we set off onto Occupation Street. We turned onto the A34 and we ran past Newcastle. Near to the KFC we turned left onto Robertson Avenue. We crossed forwards onto Douglas Road and forwards to the disco. We spent some time at the disco. Matthew went to the toilet and a glass of coke. God knows what your teeth are like! You are forever eating chocolate, cake and drinking Coke. Eat some proper food for a change. After doing some dancing we returned to Fenton. We ran back to the A34 and we went South into Newcastle. We turned left onto the A527 and we ran up to the Jubilee Roundabout. We ran around the one-way system onto George Street and we ran into Hartshill. We ran down Hartshill Road into Stoke and we went around the one-way system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500 and onto City Road before going under the railway line. We climbed the hill and we turned right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Burton / Stepenhill 09-07-2016

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
2717	Burton upon Trent, New Street (stand 6)	Horninglow, adj Hospital main entrance	3	Arriva Midlands
2959	Horninglow, Adj Mona Road	Burton upon Trent, New Street (stand 8)	3	Arriva Midlands
2711	Burton upon Trent, New Street (stand 6)	Stepenhill, opp Maple Grove	2A	Arriva Midlands
2960	Stepenhill, opp Sycamore Road	Burton upon Trent, New Street (stand 8)	2	Arriva Midlands
4798	Burton upon Trent, New Street (stand 6)	Stepenhill, opp Maple Grove	2A	Arriva Midlands
4798	Stepenhill, opp Maple Grove	Eton Park, Adj Chaucer Close	2A	Arriva Midlands
3712	Horninglow, opp The Navigation	Burton upon Trent, New Street (stand 8)	1	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Burton upon Trent. After finding out the Arriva Midlands are transfer the majority of their Burton Upon Trent depot routes to Midland Classic (#9 and the X38 excepted), We thought it would be a good idea to visit Burton again.Have checked the weather it appeared that the weather in Burton would be better than locally or to the North. We gave Matthew a list of Midlands destination and from the list Matthew chose Burton. Apart from checking the weather, research consisted of making a spreadsheet of of the buses that are allocated to Burton and highlight the ones we have been on so that we know which ones to go for at a glance. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had a crumpet and orange juice for breakfast. We set off just after 11:30 and we joined the Eastbound A5035. We got onto the Eastbound A50 near to Longton and we saw Copeland's Tours Orange Coaches MIB 116 & MIB 118 parked up in the depot in Meir. At Blythe Bridge we followed the A50 to the right and we ran fast up to Uttoxeter. After running near to the town we followed the A50 to the left and we ran up the hill for a few miles until we got to the A511 turning. We crossed over the A50 and we ran south for a couple of mile to Hatton and we stopped at the Salt Box cafe. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. Whilst we ate we saw Glovers minicoach AIG 7450 going towards Tutbury and Trent Barton 450 & 664 on V1 Villager services. Once we had finished eating we got back into the car and we set off along the A511 over the level crossing and we followed the road to the left up the hill through Beam Hill. We ran down into Burton under the A38 and over the railway line. After we passed the brewery museum we turned right into Guild Street. We crossed through the crossroad and onto Union Street Street. Coming into town we saw Arriva Midlands 2711 on the #2 which was one of the buses on the hit list. We parked up in the surface park in front of the Coopers Square shopping centre and we said goodbye to mum and walked along the walkway to New Street and we saw Swann's Travel coach YT65 BYR facing West.

Swann's Travel YT65 BYR in Burton upon Trent

As we walked up New Street whilst we worked out what to catch we saw Midland Classic double decker 46 on the #19A to the Queens Hospital.

Midland Classic 46 in Burton upon Trent

We then saw required Arriva Midlands 2717 on a #3 to the Queens Hospital, which was another bus on the hitlist.

Arriva Midlands 2717 in Burton upon Trent

We crossed over the road and went back down New Street and we walked down to the stand where Arriva Midlands 2717 was. We got on the bus and we purchased an Arriva Burton Day Saver ticket at £4.20 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down New Street and we turned right into Union Street. We turned left Station Street and we passed required Arriva Midlands 4798 on the #2A service, the bus that we wanted to get the most! We continued onto Borough Road and we crossed over the railway line. We went forwards onto St Edwards Place and we went around St aul's Sqaure and forwards onto St Pauls Street West. We turned right onto Shobnall Street and as we ran Northwards we saw required Arriva Midlands 3706 on a #3 to Winhill. At the end of Shobnall Street we turned left onto Dallow Street. We crossed over the Trent & Mersey Canal and we went under the A38 onto Belvedere Road. At the roundabout we left Belvedere Road and we ran through the hospital grounds. As we started to emerge out of the hospital back onto Belvedere Road we though we were at the end of the run so we got up to get off the bus. Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 2717 before it ran about 100 yards around the corner to a turning circle.

Inside Arriva Midlands 2717

The next Arriva Midlands back through the hospital was not for another 30 minutes, but if we walked a short distance South of the round about on Belvedere Road we could pick up another #3 service. We walked down the road we crossed over the hospital entrance and the main road and we waited at the stop. Whilst we waited for the bus Matthew ate a packet of Milky Stars. We saw the bus go North around the estate first, and it was required Arriva Midlands 2959. A few minutes later it came back Southwards as expected required Arriva Midlands 2959.

Arriva Midlands 2959 in Horninglow

We got on the bus and we flashed the riva Burton Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We ran back into town down Belvedere Road and we went under the A38 and over the canal. We went forwards into Dallow Street before we turned right into Shobnall Street. We entered town and went around the one-way system before crossing over the railway line on Borough Road. We continued onto station Street before turning right into Union Street. We turned left into New street and the bus emptied out before Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 2959.

inside Arriva Midlands 2959

We got off the bus and we decided to use the toilet. On the way up we saw Arriva Midlands 4798 having a driver change on Lichfield Street. On the way up we saw Midland Classic 47 on a #19 to the Queens Hospital.

Midland Classic 47 in Burton upon Trent

We also saw Midland Classic 51 on a #21 to Swadlincote.

Midland Classic 51 in Burton upon Trent

We went up to the market hall and Matthew used the toilet. We came back out and through the arcade onto High Street and we saw Arriva Midlands 4798 turned the corner out of New Street onto Lichfield street whilst working a #2A to Stepenhill. We walked down to New Street to see what was on the next #2 to Horninglow, but it was dud Arriva Midlands 2716. Whilst there we saw Trent Barton 745 on a X38 service to Derby.

Trent Barton 745 in Burton upon Trent

We walked back up to the top of New Street and we saw Arriva Midlands 3774 on a #9A to Coalville.

Arriva Midlands 3774 in Burton upon Trent

Plus we also wanted to get a ride on double decker Arriva Midlands 4798! Back down New Street we saw Trent Barton 659 on a V4 villager service to the Centrum Business Park.

Trent Barton 659 in Burton upon Trent

We crossed over the road and a few minutes later we saw required Arriva Midlands 2711 on a #2 to Stepenhill.

Arriva Midlands 2711 in Burton upon Trent

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Burton Day saver ticket to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off up New Street and we turned right into Lichfield Street. At the bottom of Lichfield Street we turned left onto the A5189 and we crossed over the floodplain, passing required Arriva Midlands 4798. On the other side of the plain we turned right at the roundabout onto Main Street. We turned right into Hill Street and then right on Heath Road. We turned left onto Short Street and at the mini roundabout we continued onto Somerset Road We turned left onto Cumberland Road and at the top of the road we crossed over Rosliston and onto Sycamore Road where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2711 as carried on back towards Burton and Horninglow.

Arriva Midlands 2711 in Stepenhill

Once off the bus we had around 15 minutes. We formulated a plan to finally catch up with double decker. We would return to New Street in Burton where in theory the double decker would be on the opposite side of the road, returning to Stepenhill on the #2A. In the meanwhile Matthew had a Milky Way and a can of Vimto. We got up the Arriva App on the phone and on the map we could see the bus approaching on Watersided Road. As we had a few minutes we decided to walk across Rosliston Road onto Cumberland Road about 40 yards away to get extra distance on the bus, which we expected to be required Arriva Midlands 2960. As the bus got onto the wider section of the road it came into view and we saw that it was indeed Arriva Midlands Versa 2960.

Arriva Midlands 2960 in Stepenhill

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Burton Day saver ticket to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off along Sycamore Road and we traveled up to Brackenwood Road. We went to the end and we turned right onto Rosliston Road. We continued North onto Main Street and at the roundabout we joined the A5189 to travel across the floodplain, where we passed dud Arriva Midlands 2716 on the #2 to Stepenhill. On the other side of the Trent we turned right onto LIchfield Street and at the end we turned left onto New Street. As we went towards the stop we passed Arriva Midlands 4798 going the other way up towards the stop. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2960.

Arriva Midlands 2960 in Burton upon Trent

We crossed the road and we briskly walked up to Arriva Midlands 4798 on the #2A service to Stepenhill, which was still loading up. Matthew took a picture of Arriva Midlands 4798 before we jumped on the bus.

Arriva Midlands 4798 in Burton upon Trent

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Burton Day saver ticket to the driver before we went upstairs. As the top deck was nearly empty Matthew took a photo inside Arriva Midlands 4798.

Inside Arriva Midlands 4798

We set off up New Street and right onto Lichfield Street as we had done on Arriva Midlands 2711 earlier. We followed the exact same route along the A5189, Main Street, Hill Street & Heath Street. Unlike on the #2 service we went straight across and on to Waterside Road, which as the name suggest run alongside the river Trent. We turned left onto Bedford Road and right onto Norfolk Road. St the roundabout we re-joined the route of the #2. I went down to the driver to show the ticket as we were returning North on the bus to Horninglow. We ran up Cumberland Road and we ran back towards the A5189 via Sycamore Road, Brackenwood Road, Rosliston Road and Main Street as we had done earlier. This time we passed Arriva Midlands 2711 on the A5189. We crossed over the Trent and we ran into town up Lichfield Street before we stopped in New Street for a few minutes. and we saw Midland Classic 53 go by. After the bus had waited time we ran down to the junction and we turned right onto Union Street before turning left onto Station Street. We went forwards onto Borough Road and we crossed over the railway line before we went onto the on way system onto Waterloo Street. We went North up the road and straight onto Victoria Crescent. We turned left onto the A511 and we ran a few hundred yards up to Shakespeare Road. We went to get off the bus but the bell didn't work so we went a stop further up the road than we had planned. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 4798 before it carried on back towards Burton.

Arriva Midlands 4798 in Eton Park

We walked back onto the A511 and we check the timetable for the return bus. We had 15 minutes so we decided to take Matthew to the shop on the opposite side of the road. We crossed at the crossing and we went into the Nisa shop. Matthew had a couple of cans of Coke and some chocolate. Once we had paid for the stuff we left the shop and we walked back over to the bus stop. At the bus stop Matthew had a Flake whilst we waited for the bus. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching from under the A38. As it got closer we saw that it was required Arriva Midlands 3712.

Arriva Midlands 3712 in Horninglow

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Burton Day saver ticket to the driver for the final time today before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off down the A511 and we ran into town over the railway line. We passed the brewery museum and we ran around the one way system and onto the High Street. The bus stopped outside the market and we got up and got off the bus. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 3712.

Inside Arriva Midlands 3712

The bus that we had just got off Arriva Midlands 3712 had now become a #8 to Swadlincote. Across the road we saw Arriva Midlands 3773 on a X38 to Derby.

Arriva Midlands 3773 in Burton upon Trent

We went to the market and Matthew used the toilet before we returned onto New Street. On the way back to the car we saw Trent Barton 660 on a V4 to the Centrum Business Park.

Trent Barton 660 in Burton upon Trent

We walked back to the car park and mum was waiting with some Greggs sausage rolls. Washed washed his down with a can of Irn Bru. We set off onto Union Street and at the end we went straight onto . We turned left onto the A511 and we ran under the A38 and out of town. When we got to Hatton we caught up with Arriva Midlands 2987 which was on the #1 to Uttoxeter. We joined the Westbound A50 and we ran fast towards Uttoxeter. coming the other way we passed Several Ausden Clark coach which included BIG 9829 & BIG 9834 as well as an unidentified Paul S Winson coach. We carried on along the A50 to Longton and we came off to check out what was at Z Carz today. In the first row was Z Carz Mercedes minibus CE02 LYX.

Z Carz CE02 LYX in Longton

Next in the row was Z Carz Vauxhall minibus X599 WDY.

Z Carz X599 WDY in Longton

Closest in the first row was Z Carz Ford minibus YS09 LWV.

Z Carz YS09 LWV in Longton

In the second row we saw Z Carz LDV minibus CN57 HWA.

Z Carz CN57 HWA in Longton

We turned into Willow Row to see what was in the compound. We saw Z Carz airport division MJ03 DPU.

Z Carz MJ03 DPU in Longton

We turned around and we also saw Z Carz Ford minibus HK57 LGW.

Z Carz HK57 LGW in Longton

We headed back onto the A50 past the T K Maxx construction site and then we came off the A50 at Heron Cross. We ran through Blurton along Blurton Road and we turned right onto Church Road. We turned right into Beaconsfield Drive and we got home around 18:00. For tea for a change we had sausage chips an gravy from the chip shop followed by a cornflake cakes. Matthew then chilled out on his computer until bedtime around 00:00... Mark