Trip to Widnes / Runcorn 08-07-2023

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
3040	Widnes, Green Oaks	Runcorn BS	110	Arriva NW&W
3136	Runcorn BS	Halton Lea North	3C	Arriva NW&W
2669	Halton Lea South	Runcorn BS	79C	Arriva NW&W
3023	Runcorn BS	Belle Vale, Sandbrook Road	79C	Arriva NW&W
4815	Belle Vale, Sandbrook Road	Netherley, Glebe Hey	79	Arriva NW&W
4442	Netherley, Glebe Hey	Childwall, Score Lane	79	Arriva NW&W
3023	Childwall, Score Lane	Widnes, Green Oaks	79C	Arriva NW&W

Today we decided to revisit Widnes. We hadn't chosen anywhere to go by Saturday morning, so we let Matthew pick somewhere off the map and Matthew chose Widnes. Research for the trip consisted of looking at tickets on the Arriva webside and looking at the weather, which was for sunny weather with thunderstorms. Matthew got up at 10:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Mum video called one the the people she supports and Matthew sang them Happy Birthday and blew out candles on a cake, before eating the cake. Just before 12:00 we set off to pick up uncle Dave. We got in the car and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road. We ran through Blurton and into Heron Cross and over the A50. At Heron Cross lights we turned left onto Grove Road. We ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. Once we had picked up uncle Dave, we continued down Wheildon Road and we joined the Northbound A500. On the A500 we saw Sky Minibuses GX64 BJK. The road was quiet and we headed up to the M6. We joined the M6 and as we travelled Northwards we saw an unidentified Daish's Holidays coach, an unidentified Amans coach, an unidentified blue coach with Tottenham Hotspur on the side (88 NXD?) and an unidentifide Abbot's of Leeming coach. At junction 21A we got on the Westbound M62. Seen on the M62 was an unidentified pink van Hool double decker coach (party bus?). We came off the M62 onto the Southbound A557 and we ran into Widnes. We turned right to get 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. In the bus station we saw Arriva NW&W 3159 on a #79C to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 3159 in Widnes

We went into the Market and Matthew went to the toilet. We went to the back end of the market and we stopped at the cafe. Mathew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Dr Pepper. We said goodbye to mum and we stopped at a sweet stall to pick up some sweets. Matthew had a bag of Spearmint Chews. We headed out of the market to catch a bus. I asked Matthew which direction he wanted to go in, and he chose to go towards Runcorn. Whilst we waited we saw Arriva NW&W 2903 on a #17 to Chain Lane.

Arriva NW&W 2903 in Widnes

As few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. On the opposite side of the road we saw Ashcroft's Travel HIG 8904 on a #26A Cronton circular service. The bus we were catching came around the corner and we saw it was Arriva NW&W 3040 on a #110 to Murdishaw.

Arriva NW&W 3040 in Widnes

We got on the bus and we booked Arriva Merseyzone Daysaver tickets at £4.60 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. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 3040 as it continued towards Murdishaw.

Arriva NW&W 3040 in Runcorn bus station

We waited at the bus station to see what we could catch next. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. AS it got closer we saw it was Arriva NW&W 3136 on a #3C circular service.

Arriva NW&W 3136 in Runcorn bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Liverpool Plus Duo Day tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we turned right and up the hill. We crossed the canal and we went under the A533. We turned left into Boston Avenue and we ran Eastwards. We turned left into Halton Brook Avenue and then we turned right into Halton Brook Avenue. We went forwards off Halton Brook Avenue on to Brackendale and after crossing over the B5155 onto Halton Lodge Avenue we turned left onto the busway. With Runcorn being radically different, there are three types of Roads. We ran under the A533 central expressway and into the Halton Lea 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 5002 on a X30 to Chester. Behind the was Ashcroft's Travel HIG 5674 on a #52 Beech circular.

Ashcroft's Travel HIG 5674 in Halton Lea

As it turner the corner we saw it was Arriva NW&W 2669 on a #79C to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 2669 in Halton Lea

We got on the bus and we placed the Liverpool Plus Duo Day tickets under the scanner before we 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. We arrived in the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 2669.

Arriva NW&W 2669 in Runcorn bus station

We crossed over the road and we headed into the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we went to the bar to order a drink. We had a glass of Coke and we sat down to drink it. When we had finished we took our empty glasses back to the bar and we went outside and met up with uncle Dave. We went into the bus station to wait for another bus. Whilst waiting we saw Arriva NW&W 5008 on a #82A to Murdishaw.

Arriva NW&W 5008 in Runcorn bus station

A short time later we saw our bus approaching. As it turner the corner we saw it was Arriva NW&W 3023 on a #79C to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 3023 in Runcorn bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Liverpool Plus Duo Day tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out onto 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 the old town of Widnes up 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. The bus filled up and got quite crowded. After a short wait we set off Northwards to the roundabout and we joined the Westbound B5178. We travelled around 2 miles and we crossed over the railway line near to Hough Green railway station. We were now out in open countryside and we ran fast along the B5178 into the village of Tarbock Green. It had now started to rain very heavily and as such people were shutting the windows. We continued West for around another mile into Netherley and we continued along the B5178 North Westwards for around another mile to Belle Vale. When we got into familiar surroundings and we saw the shopping centre. With the rain and the shut windows it was becoming quite unpleasant on the bus. We carroed on for a few more stops and then we decided to get up and get off the bus. Once off the bus we immediaely got into the bus shelter. I asked Matthew if he wanted to go on further or head back in the direction of Widnes and he chose the later. We crossed over the road and we sat in the stop for a few minutes. Matthew was eyeing up the Lidl so we decided to go into the supermarket. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we brought a bottle of Cola and some Bakewell slices. We went outside to the bus stop and Matthew had one of the Bakewell Slices. Whilst we waited for a bus we spotted Arriva NW&W 4475 on a #79 to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 4475 in Belle Vale

Matthew had a can of Irn Bru. We waited for a few more minutes and we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva NW&W 4815 on a #79 to Netherley.

Arriva NW&W 4815 in Belle Vale

We got on the bus and we placed the Liverpool Plus Duo Day tickets under the scanner before we went upstairs asnd we sat down. We set off along the B5178 and we ran past the Bell Vale shopping centre. We continued South Eastwards and we followed the B5178 to the left and through the housing estate. We turned right onto Wood Lane and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we made a decision to go back West and head off a #79C back to Widnes. Before we crossed the road we saw Arriva NW&W 4474 on a #79 to Halewood.

Arriva NW&W 4474 in Netherley

We crossed the road and we waited for a Westbound bus. Whilst we waited Matthew had another Bakewell slice. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva NW&W 4442 on a #79 to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 4442 in Netherley

We got on the bus and we placed the Liverpool Plus Duo Day tickets under the scanner. The lower saloon was empty so Matthew took inside Arriva NW&W 4442.

Inside Arriva NW&W 4442

We went upstairs and Matthew took a picture inside of Arriva NW&W 4442 before we sat down.

Inside Arriva NW&W 4442

We set off along Wood Lane and we turned left onto the B5178. We ran through Belle Vale past the shopping centre and we continued past Lidl and under the railway line. We ran up the hill towards Childwall and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 4442 as it continued towards Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 4442 in Childwall

We crossed over the road and we waited for the bus back to Widnes. We had already seen on the map that it was going to be the bus we had earlier. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. It was Arriva NW&W 3023 on a #79C to Runcorn.

Arriva NW&W 3023 in Childwall

We got on the bus and we placed the Liverpool Plus Duo Day tickets under the scanner for the final time today before we sat down towards the front of the bus. The bus was very full and had to sit apart. We set off along the B5178 and we ran out of town. We went out into open countryside and we ran through Tarbock and over the A5300. We ran into Hough Green and we turned left onto Hough Green Road. We turned right onto Arley Drive and we ran though the estate. We turned left onto Hough Green Road and we we ran back down to the A5178. We passed Hough Green railway station and we ran through Ditton and into the West end of Widnes. We reached the roundabout and we turned right onto the road to the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we spotted Arriva NW&W 3049 on a #82A to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 3049 in Widnes

We crossed over the road. It had been the plan to take Matthew to the toilet, but the gents toilet was out of order and the disabled toilets were blocked off. I asked a member of staff and the directed me to a baby changing room that had no toilet in it. We went back to the car and the plan had been to take Matthew to a pub but it was raining really heavily. In the end we drove around to Morrisons and we parked up close to the shop and mum took him to the toilet. Afterwards we brought a cake. We returned to the car and we set off out of Morrisons onto Green Oaks Way. We did a u-turn at the roundabout and we headed Southwards onto Lugsdale Road. We stopped at the chip shop and we got Matthew had 2 small sausages chips and gravy. We turned around in Major Cross Street and we headed North up Lugsdale Street. We parked up at Widnes Shopping Park and Matthew ate his 2 small sausages, chips and gravy with a buttered bap that mum had bought earlier. When we had finished eating we we off onto Ashley Way and we joined the Northbound A557. We headed Northwards up to the motorway. We travelled North for around 3 mile before we turned right onto the Eastbound M62. Traveling back along the M62 we saw Arriva NW&W 2961. At junction 10 we got onto the Southbound M6 and we headed Southwards through Cheshire. On the M6 we saw an unidentified Just Go Holidays coach. At junction 16 we went South down the A500 through Longport and Etruria into Stoke. We came off the A500 and we diverted onto Wheildon Road. We dropped off uncle Dave and Matthew got out to use the toilet. He also had some of uncle Rob's Irn Bru. We updated uncle daves calendar to show recent activity. 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 watched TV 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 Widnes / Runcorn 15-09-2018

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
2539	Widnes, Green Oaks	Runcorn BS	110	Arriva NW&W
3136	Runcorn BS	Norton, Runcorn East	X1	Arriva NW&W
2542	Norton, Eanley Wood, Runcorn East, Busway	Halton Lea South	1	Arriva NW&W
2544	Halton Lea South	Runcorn BS	110	Arriva NW&W
W828 PFB	Runcorn BS	Halton Lea South	52	Ashcroft's Travel
5004	Halton Lea South	Runcorn BS	500	Arriva NW&W
3138	Runcorn BS	Speke, Western Avenue	X1	Arriva NW&W
4829	Speke, Tarbock Road	Speke, Morrisons	82	Arriva NW&W
4814	Speke, Morrisons	Woolton, Allerton Road	81	Arriva NW&W

Today we decided to re-visit Widnes. We had checked the weather for today and it was for mainly dry weather with some sunshine and the small chance of a shower. We gave Matthew a list of destination in the Midlands and North West and from the list Matthew chose Widnes. Research for the trip consisted of looking at Arriva Mersey Plus Day Saver ticket. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We set off around 11:45 onto the A5035. We turned right onto Stanley Matthews Way and near to the BET365 stadium we passed D&G 173 on a #14 to Stafford. We joined the Westbound A50 and at Sideway roundabout we turned right to join the Northbound A500. Travelling up the A500 we saw an unidentified Swans Travel coach and Belle Vue A15 VUE. We joined the M6 at junction 16 and as we joined the motorway we saw Rolfe Street Garage YP10 XGN. Going up the M6 we saw an unidentified Alba Travel coach, an unidentified Mostonian coach, Kier YS15 CRJ, Park's of Hanmilton LSK 832, an unidentified Swans Travel coach, an unidentified national Holidays coach, Llew Jones (NX) LJ67 LLJ(#375), an unidentified Barnes coach, Stanton's of Stoke 5658 RU, an unidentified Esk Valley coach, an unidentified 18 Mayne coach (in a firework style livery). 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 Arriva NW&W 2549 on a #110 to Murdishaw.

Arriva NW&W 2549 in Widnes

We crossed over the road and we headed into the market. Matthew went to the toilet and then we went into the Market Cafe. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. Once we had finished eating we said goodbye to mum and we set off outside to the bus station. We saw Halton Transport 82 on a #62 to Halebank.

Halton Transport 82 in Widnes

We crossed over the road to wait for a bus towards Runcorn. Whilst we waited we saw Halton Transport 24 on a #14C to Hough Green.

Halton Transport 24 in Widnes

A few minutes later we saw an Arriva bus approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was dud Arriva NW&W 2539 on a #110 to Murdishaw.

Arriva NW&W 2539 in Widnes

We got on the bus and we brought Arriva NW&W Merseyside Plus Day Saver tickets at £4.40 each before sitting down towards the back of the bus. As we sat down we saw Stagecoach Merseyside 15585 on a X5 to Liverpool. We set off out of the bus station and we turned right onto Gerrards Street. We ran forwards onto Milton Road and we turned left onto the B5419. We went through the old town and across the roundabout onto Victoria Road where we saw an unidentified Ambassador coach parked down a side street. We got onto the new A533 and we crossed over the new Mersey Gateway Bridge. We then headed back Westwards and then joined Leiria way to run into Runcorn town centre. We ran onto the High Street we ran past the bus station before turning right into the bus station so we were pointing the right way to go towards Halton Lea. We got up and got off the bus and we saw Anthony's Travel D19 ANT on a contract service to Capita.

Anthony's Travel D19 ANT in Runcorn bus station

A few minutes later we saw Arriva NW&W 3136 on a X1 to Windmill Hill.

Arriva NW&W 3136 in Runcorn bus station

We decided to do this bus so we got on and flashed the Arriva NW&W Merseyside Plus Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off Westwards and we crossed under the A557 and Southwards down Greenway Road. We turned left onto Moughland lane and we continued forwards onto Clifton Road. We turned left onto one of the busways and we ran under the A533 before stopping outside the library. WE continued up to Halton Lea Hospital and we ran fast up to Murdishaw. We had planned on getting up by the Co-operative food store but we didn't ring the bell expecting the bus would stop and we went sailing by. We continued a few stops further round and we decided to get off by Runcorn East railway station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 3136 as it continued towards Windmill Hill.

Arriva NW&W 3136 in Norton

Once off the bus we crossed over the road to the bus top opposite. We weren't sure how long we were going to have to wait for a bus but only a couple of minutes later we saw an Arriva NW&W Cadet approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was dud Arriva NW&W 2542 on a #1 Halton Lea circular service.

Arriva NW&W 2542 in Norton

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Merseyside Plus Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus turned around the turning circle and we ran West up the busway to Halton Lea hospital. We pulled up in Halton Lea South. Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 2542 as it continued around the Halton Lea circular route.

Arriva NW&W 2542 in Halton Lea

Once of the bus we headed down to the Shopping City shopping centre. We walked through the shopping centre and Matthew used the disabled toilet which appear to have been upgraded since our last visit. Once we had finished we headed back through the shopping centre and up to the bus station. When we got there we saw Stagecoach Merseyside 19056 on a X2 to Chester.

Stagecoach Merseyside 19056 in Halton Lea

A few minutes later we saw another Arriva Cadet Approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was required Arriva NW&W 2544 on a #110 to Warrington.

Arriva NW&W 2544 in Halton Lea

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Merseyside Plus Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We travelled back through Castlefields via the busway. We headed back into Runcorn via the busway through Astmoor. When we got back into Runcorn Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 2544 before it carried on towards Warrington.

Arriva NW&W 2544 in Runcorn bus station

Across the way we spotted required Ashcroft's Travel W828 PFB on the #52 Beechwood circular service.

Ashcroft's Travel W828 PFB in Runcorn bus station

We decided to pay extra and do this bus as it was a required one. We got on the bus and we booked single fares to Halton Lea South at £1.10 each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. There was a short wait for departure time, and at 15:20 we set off out of the bus station. We went Eastwards onto the B5155. We crossed the canal and we turned left onto Halton Road. We travelled around 1/2 mile and we turned left onto Halton Brow, running under the A533. At the end of Halton Brow we turned right onto Main Street through and old part of the town with older building that you typically find in a rural village in Cheshire. The road curved around to the East ans we turned right onto Holt Lane. We ran through part of 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 the bus and Matthew took another picture of Ashcroft's Travel W828 PFB before it carried on around the Beechwood circle.

Ashcroft's Travel W828 PFB in Halton Lea

We decided to keep moving and we saw a gas powered bus approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was required Arriva NW&W 5004 on a #500 to Widnes.

Arriva NW&W 5004 in Halton Lea

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Merseyside Plus Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and along the busway. THe #500 takes the same route as the bold #79C service used to take. We carried on West onto Grangeway. At the end we ran forwards onto Linkway and right onto Laburnum Grove. We turned right onto Windsor Grove and we followed the road around. We ran North up Norleane Crescent and we turned left onto Heath Road. We then did a loop around Langdale Road and Ivy Street before we rejoined Heath Road, this time going Northwards. We continued up the B5155 and we followed the road to the left over the canal. We then travelled via Lena Way into the town centre and into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 5004 as it carried on towards Widnes.

Arriva NW&W 5004 in Runcorn bus station

Once off the bus Matthew decided he wanted a drink and to go to the toilet. We left the bus station and crossed the road and went to The Ferry Boat. Matthew went to the toilets and afterwards we waited at the bar to get a drink. Matthew had a small Coke with ice and after we had finished drink we went outside to meet up with uncle Dave. We decided to take a few pictures before we carried on. We saw Halton Transport 10 on a #61A to Huyton.

Halton Transport 10 in Runcorn bus station

A few minutes later we saw Arriva NW&W 3138 on a X1 to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 3138 in Runcorn bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Merseyside Plus Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we headed to the A533. We ran fast over the river Mersey on the new bridge and we joined the Westbound A562. We ran at speed for around 2 miles and the we veered left to join the A561. We ran the last mile or so into Speke and we could see a small bus terminal outside of Morrison as we went past. After crossing over Western Avenue we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture picture of Arriva NW&W 3138 as it carried on towards Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 3138 in Speke

We walked around the corner onto Western Avenue to wait for a bus toward Speke. A few minutes later we saw a hybrid double decker approaching. As it got closer we saw it was required Arriva NW&W 4829 on a #82 to Speke.

Arriva NW&W 4829 in Speke

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Merseyside Plus Day Saver ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off down Western Avenue and past Paul McCartney's first home. We turned left onto Central Avenue and we ran Eastwards through the estate. We ran clockwise around the South Parade and we continued Eastwards onto Central Way. We turned left onto Eastern Avenue and we ran Northwards for around 1/4 of a mile. We turned left onto Millwards Road and we ran Westwards to Morrisons and the end of the run. We got up and we went into Morrisons. Matthew went to the toilet and we came out of the supermarket. We decided to wait for the next #81 towards Woolton. The bus pulled up and we saw it was required Arriva NW&W 4814 on a #81 to Bootle.

Arriva NW&W 4814 in Speke

Whilst we waited for the bus to be readied for service we saw HTL Bus YJ11 EKN on a #3A circular service. When the bus was ready we got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Merseyside Plus Day Saver ticket to the driver for the final time today. The lower saloon was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Arriva NW&W 4814.

Inside Arriva NW&W 4814

We went upstairs and Matthew took a picture inside the upper saloon of Arriva NW&W 4814 before we sat down.

Inside Arriva NW&W 4814

We set off out of the bus terminal onto Millwood Road and we headed Eastwards. We turned right onto Eastern Avenue and we ran Southwards before turning right onto Central Way. We ran anti-clockwise around South Parade and we joined Central Avenue. We turned right onto Western Avenue and we ran Northwards up to the main road. We turned left onto the A561 and we ran Westwards towards Liverpool. We turned right onto Speak Hall Road. We ran Northwards towards Woolton and as we crossed over the railway line we saw 2 class 08 shunters and 4 old coaches parked adjacent to them. We turned right onto the A562. We ran Eastwards to Hunts Cross and we turned left onto Speke Road. We ran Northwards for around 3/4 of a mile and we crossed over the B5171. We ran into Woolton and we got up and got off the bus. Behind us was Arriva NW&W 4438 on a #89 to St Helens.

Arriva NW&W 4438 in Woolton

Once off the bus we crossed over the street and we went down the passageway to Sainsbury's. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we met up with mum. Matthew brought a bottle of Coke and a pack of Crunchies. Once we had paid for the stuff we got in the car where mum had brought Greggs sausage rolls and a small bottle of Irn Bru. We set off onto Kings Drive and we ran to Halewood Road. We turned left onto Lydiate Lane and forwards onto Church Road. We turned left onto Greensbridge lane and left onto the B5178. We ran into Netherley and we turned left onto the B5171. We turned right onto Besford Road and we stopped at Morrisons for petrol. Once we had filled up we headed back onto the B5171. We turned right onto the B5178 and we turned left onto Whitefield Lane. We turned right onto the A5080 and we joined the Eastbound M62. We continued to the M6 and then we headed Southwards. As we travelled Eastwards we saw grey minibus KN54 NLL. Seen on the M6 were an unidentified Esk Valley coach, an unidentified Alba Travel coach, An unidentified tri-axle Alpine Travel coach. As we ran through Cheshire we were passed by Airshuttle BX62 BFP.

Airshuttle BX62 BFP on the M6

Continuing down the M6 we saw an unidentified MJ Travel minibus & white minibus SH12 FDN. We came off the M6 at junction 16 and we headed Spouthwards down the A500. Seen on the A500 was grey minibus YP18 SVX. At Sideway we went went Eastwards along the A50 to Longton. We came off the A50 at Longton and we ran along the high level road. We stopped at the Z Carz depot to see what was parked up this evening. The spare ground was empty so we turned left nto Willow Row to see what was in the compound. We saw Z Carz's new grey minibus WX55 OHU.

Z Carz WX55 OHU in Longton

Also see was Z Carz white Mercedes minibus CE02 LYX.

Z Carz CE02 LYX in Longton

We went West along the A50 to Heron Cross and we turned left onto Blurton Road. We continued up to Church Road and we turned right into Beaconsfield Drive and we got back home at 19:30. When we got back for a late tea Matthew had bangers and mash with carrots followed by a jam filled shortbread biscuit. We did an e-mail and we wrote some of the Blog. Matthew went to bed around 00:00.... Mark.

Trip to Widnes / Speke 06-01-2018

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
5007	Widnes, Green Oaks	Runcorn BS	82A	Arriva NW&W
5018	Runcorn BS	Halton Lea, opp Hospital	79C	Arriva NW&W
3136	Halton Lea, adj Hospital	Speke, Western Avenue	X1	Arriva NW&W
4813	Speke, Tarbock Road	Speke, Morrisons	82	Arriva NW&W
4563	Speke, Morrisons	Woolton, Allerton Road	81	Arriva NW&W
4618	Woolton, Kings Drive	Liverpool John Lennon Airport	89	Arriva NW&W
5007	Liverpool John Lennon Airport	Widnes, Chesnut Lodge	82A	Arriva NW&W

Today we decided to re-visit Widnes. We gave Matthew a list of places in the Midlands and North-West and from the list Matthew chose Widnes. We checked the weather for today and it was for cool dry weather turning colder later on. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We set off around 11:30 and we stopped outside the Co-operative Food store on Finstock Avenue so mum could post a parcel. Once she had completeed the task we continued up to Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Road and we continued to the mini roundabout where we veered left onto Blurton Road. We ran down the hill past the petrol station and and we climbed up the other side into Heron Cross where we saw BX04 VKL at the Lightning house. At Heron Croiss we joined the Westbound A50 and we ran down the hill to Sideway where we turned right onto the Northbound A500. We made good time up to the M6 and we passed white minibus OU55 GFZ. We got on the M6 at junction 16 and today the motorway was relatively clear. As we travelled North we saw an unidentified Aston Manor Coaches coach, an unidentified white yellow & blue minibus, an unidentified Belle Vue coach, an unidentified Minsterley Motors coach, Grey Gull Inn EU54 TTE, Eavesway YJ12 CKA and an unidentified Aziz coach. As we left the M6 onto the Westbound M62 we were passed by Holmeswood VIP coach PO12 EOC. We travlled westwards for a few miles until we came off the M62 and went Southwards down the A557 to the edge of town. We turned right onto Ashley Way and and at the roundabout we went right onto Green Oaks Way. We parked up in the car park near to the market and bus station and we walked over to the market to have dinner. Matthew used the toilet and then we sat down and mum went to order the food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a small bottle of Coke. When we had finished eating we said goodbye to mum and we walked out of the market to the bus station. It seemed very busy today and there were plenty of buses passing through. We saw dud Arriva NW&W 2532 on a #110 to Warrington.

Arriva NW&W 2532 in Widnes

We also saw Link Network MX12 CFU on a #110 to Warrington.

Link Network MX12 CFU in Widnes

On the opposite side of the road was required Halton Transport 27 on a #27 service to the town centre.

Halton Transport 27 in Widnes

A few minutes later we saw dud Arriva NW&W 5008 on a #110 to Warrington.

Arriva NW&W 5008 in Widnes

We considered doing Halton Transport 26 which was on the #27 to Weates Close. We queued up to get on but the people who we though were in the queue weren't so the bus pulled off. Whilst we considered our options we saw required Arriva NW&W 714 on a #17 to the town centre.

Arriva NW&W 714 in Widnes

A few minutes later we saw required Arriva NW&W 5007 on a #82A to Halton Lea which we decided to do.

Arriva NW&W 5007 in Widnes

We got on the bus and we brought Arriva NW&W Day Saver tickets at £5.50 each before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we turned right onto Gerrards Street. We ran forwards onto Milton Road and we turned left onto the B5419. We went through the old town and across the roundabout onto Victoria Road where we saw required Arriva NW&W 5017 on a #79 to Hough Green. We got onto the new A533 and we crossed over the new Mersey Gateway Bridge. We then headed back Westwards and then joined Leiria way to run into Runcorn town centre. We ran onto the High Street we ran past the bus station before turning right into the bus station so we were pointing the right way to go towards Halton Lea. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 5007 as it continued towards Halton Lea.

Arriva NW&W 5007 in Runcorn bus station

We also saw required Arriva NW&W 709 on a #3A to Halton Lea.

Arriva NW&W 709 in Runcorn bus station

A few minutes later we saw required Arriva NW&W 5018 on a #79C to Murdishaw which we decided to catch.

Arriva NW&W 5018 in Runcorn bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Day Saver ticket to the driver before sitting down towards the rear of the bus. We set off out of town along the B5155 and we followed the road to the right and over the canal. We went under the A533 towards the town hall and we turned right into Ivy Street and left into Langdale Road. We ran through Halton Lodge Norleane Crescent and Linkway. We ran clockwise around Grangeway and we joined the busway and we ran though Halton Lea North close to the library. We decided to go a bit further East to Hospital so continued along the busway for a further 1/2 mile or so. When we got to the hospital we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 5018 as it carried on towards Murdishaw.

Arriva NW&W 5018 in Halton Lea

Directly behind us was Arriva NW&W 5007 which had come a different route and had now caught back up with us. 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 Halton Transport 42 on a #62 to Halebank.

Halton Transport 42 in Halton Lea

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 X1 towards Speke and we saw Arriva NW&W 5004 & 5015 on X30 services. We also saw Ashcroft's Solo YX04 KWJ turn the corner towards the shopping centre on the #52 Beechwood circular service. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was dud Arriva NW&W 3136 on the X1 to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 3136 in Halton Lea

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Day Saver ticket to the driver before sitting down towards the rear of the bus. We set off along the busway towards the Halton Lea shopping centre and we just beyond the shopping centre we stopped for a driver change. We ran through Castlefields and we turned right onto Tyrrell Way. We turned left onto Castlefields Avenue East and we joined the Westbound A558. 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 and then we headed back to the A533. We ran fast over the river Mersey on the new bridge and we joined the Westbound A562. We ran at speed for around 2 miles and the we veered left to join the A561. We ran the last mile or so into Speke and we could see a small bus terminal outside of Morrison as we went past. After crossing over Western Avenue we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture picture of Arriva NW&W 3136 as it carried on towards Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 3136 in Speke

Once we had let the bus go we set off towards Western Avenue to catch a bus to either the Aiport or to Morrisons in Speke. As we walked back towards the road we saw Arriva NW&W 4820 on a #82 to Liverpool.

Arriva NW&W 4820 in Speke

We cut the corner along a path and we walked to the first bus stop on the Southbound side of the road. We didn't have to waiy for more than a couple of minutes when we saw an Arriva hybrid double decker coming around the corner off the A561. As it got closer we saw it was required Arriva NW&W 4813 on a #82 to Speke Morrisons.

Arriva NW&W 4813 in Speke

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Day Saver ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off down Western Avenue and past Paul McCartney's first home. We turned left onto Central Avenue and we ran Eastwards through the estate. We ran clockwise around the South Parade and we continued Eastwards onto Central Way. We turned left onto Eastern Avenue and we ran Northwards for around 1/4 of a mile. We turned left onto Millwards Road and we ran Westwards to Morrisons and the end of the run. We got up to get off and Matthew took a picture inside the top deck of Arriva NW&W 4813.

Inside Arriva NW&W 4813

We got off the bus and we headed into Morrisons. Matthew visited the toilet and then we went into the shop. Matthew brough a cpolpe of small bottles of Coke, a double Milky Way and a Drumstick lolly. We paied for the things and we headed back outside to the small 3 stand bus terminal. We went outside and Arriva NW&W 4813 was still on layover.

Arriva NW&W 4813 in Speke

We saw Arriva NW&W 4563 arrive into the terminal. It went on layover before working the next #81 to Bootle.

Arriva NW&W 4563 in Speke

Whilst we waited for the bus to be readied for service we saw Arriva NW&W 4853 on the #80 to Liverpool and Arriva NW&W 4817 & 4824 on the #82 Liverpool. Whilst we waited for the bus to be readied Matthew ate his Drumstick Lolly. When the driver was ready we got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Day Saver ticket to the driver. The downstairs saloon was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Arriva NW&W 4563.

Inside Arriva NW&W 4563

We went upstairs and Matthew got a picture of the upper saloon in Arriva NW&W 4563.

Inside Arriva NW&W 4563

We set off out of the bus terminal onto Millwood Road and we headed Eastwards. We turned right onto Eastern Avenue and we ran Southwards before turning right onto Central Way. We ran anti-clockwise around South Parade and we joined Central Avenue. We turned right onto Western Avenue and we ran Northwards up to the main road. We turned left onto the A561 and we ran Westwards towards LIverpool. We turned right onto Speak Hall Road. We ran Northwards towards Woolton and as we crossed over the railway line we saw 2 class 08 shunters and 4 old coaches parked adjacent to them. We turned right onto the A562 and we saw HTL Buses YJ16 DYG on a #166 to Garston and YJ11 EKP on a #188 to Halewood. We ran Eastwards to Hunts Cross and we turned left onto Speke Road. We ran Northwards for around 3/4 of a mile and we crossed over the B5171. We ran into Woolton and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva NW&W 4563 as it continued on towards Bootle.

Arriva NW&W 4563 in Woolton

We over the road and we walked over to the Southbound stop to wait for an airport bound service. We had a few minutes before the next #89 service so Matthew ate a bag of Milky Stars. A few minutes later as expected we saw a double decker approaching, As it got closer we saw that it was required Arriva NW&W 4618 on a #89 to Liverpool Airport.

Arriva NW&W 4618 in Woolton

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva NW&W Day Saver ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off down Speke Road and we went past Hunts Cross railway station and over the A562. We continued along Woodend Avenue and we travlled around 1/3 of a mile before we crossed over the A561. We continued onto Western Avenue and we turned left onto Central Avenue and we ran anti-clockwise around the South Parade. We ran forwards onto Central Way and we turned right onto Eastern Avenue. We ran Southwards to Hale Road and we turned right to head towards the airport. We entered the airport through the 2 barriers and then we pulled on on the end stop and we got up and got off the bus. Once Matthew had taken a couple of pictures we headed into the airport terminal and Matthew used the toilet. We had around 20 minutes to wait for a #82A back to Widnes so Matthew had a double Milky Way and a can of Fanta orange whilst we waited. Whilst we waited for our bus we saw required Arriva NW&W 4477 on the #500 to Liverpool, required Arriva NW&W 4564 on a #86A to Liverpool and Selwyn's 265 on a #3A to Huyton. A few minutes later we saw a gas bus approaching and as it got closer we saw that it was dud Arriva NW&W 5007 rthat we had been on earlier in the day on a #82A to Halton Lea.

Arriva NW&W 5007 in Liverpool Airport

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. We set off out of the airport onto Speke Hall Avenue and we turned right onto Dunlop Road where we saw silver taxi minibus W11 RTU. We turned left onto Western Avenue and we saw taxi minibuses NX59 TTZ, MK15 KTT & BL56 UUR. We ran Northwards for a short distance and then we turned right onto Central Avenue. We ran anti-clockwise around South Parade and forwards onto Central Way. We turned right onto Eastern Avenue and we ran down to Hale Road. We headed Eastwards into Hale passing Arriva NW&W 2540 on a #82A to Liverpool Airport. We ran out of Hale along Town Lane and into Halebank. At the turning circle we saw Halton Transport 44 on a #62 to Halton Lea. We contin ued North up Hale Road and we crossed over the railway line and under the A672 that we flew over when we went towards Speke. We continued up to the B5178 and we continued East into Widnes town centre. We ran past the North end of the town and we turned right into the Green Oaks bus station. Matthew wanted to travel further towards Runcorn but as it was already dark and getting cold we persuaded him it wuld be in his best interest to call it a day at this point. Reluctantly Matthew got off the bus and took another picture of Arriva NW&W 5007 as it carried on towards Halton Lea.

Arriva NW&W 5007 in Widnes

Mum had moved the car to an adjacent space and was waiting with Greggs sausage rolls and a can of Irn Bru. We set off out of the car park onto the Northbound Green Oaks way and we did a u-turn at the roundabout so we could headec back to the A557. We got onto the Northbound A557 and we ran Northwards for around 3 miles up to the M62. We went Eastwards along the M62 and as we travelled towards the M6 we saw an unidentified Ashcroft's coach. We joined the Southbound M6 and as we travelled through the night we saw taxi minibus OU17 AUV and an unidentified Abbot Travel coach. At junction 16 we left the M6 to get onto the Southbound A500 which we did to Sideway. We got onto the Eastbound A50 and we climbed the hill we were passed by Ausden Clark white coach CNZ 1541. We stopped at Tesco to fill up with petrol where we saw grey taxi minibus SB66 FZW. When we were at the petrol station Matthew decided he needed the toilet. We drove as close as we could to the main shop and Matthew used the facilites. Once we had finished we walked back to the car and we saw Lucky Seven PO11 CGG. We drove back onto Baths Road and we saw Warrington's of Ilam SCZ 9652 which was returning from Coventry with fans from thr Stoke City FA Cup game. We headed over to the other side of the A50 to see what was on the spare ground Z Carz this evening. It was empty as expected so we turned left into Willow Row where we saw Z Carz minibus SFZ 7846.

Z Carz SFZ 7846 in Longton

We also saw Z Carz Iveco minibus YJ53 WPD.

Z Carz YJ53 WPD in Longton

We set off onto the Westbound A50 and we came off at Heron Cross. We turned left onto Blurton Road and as we ran through Blurton we saw Roseville EX57 HKT. We continued onto Church Road and we turned right onto beaconsfield Drive where we saw Lucky Seven SM12 HGX. We got home around 19:00. For a late tea we had bangers and mash with carrots followed by a jam filled shortcake biscuit. Matthew chilled out on his computer until bedtime around 23:30. Mum went bed a little ealier as she had to go to work tomorrow... Mark