Trip to Hanley / Stafford 25-01-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
63362	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Stoke, adj stop Q	11	First Potteries
35947	Stoke, adj stop N	Hanley BS	25	First Potteries
67147	Hanley BS	Stafford, Chell Road	101	First Potteries
63177	Stafford, The Sun PH	Newcastle BS	101	First Potteries
67177	Newcastle BS	Fenton, Smithpool Road	11	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to Stafford on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw Temple Street Church RX18 GZW. We went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. On the way to the bus stop we saw Afford rent-a-car RO74 BWZ.

Afford rent-a-car RO74 BWZ in Fenton

A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63362 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 63362 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street. We got off the bus and we crossed obver the road to the stop opposite to wait for a #25 to Hanley. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As soon as it cam into view we knew it was First Potteries 35947 on a #25 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35947 in Stoke

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down. The bus set off out of Stoke town centre and across the A500. We crossed under the railway line before turning left onto the A52 and we ran past the railway station to joiners Square. We turned left onto Lichfield Street and we turned left onto the ring road and we turned right onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street and into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. A short time later we saw First Potteries 67159 on a #7A to Biddulph. As it got closer we saw that it was First Potteries 67147 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 67141 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus bus and we booked to Stafford before We sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off through the bus station. 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. We ran down through Etruria an up into Hartshill before joining the A52. We ran into Newcastle down George Street. We joined the one way system and we turned left on the roundabout onto Barracks Road. As we got to the bus station onto Barracks Road. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we ran down through Trent Vale and into Hanford. We continued down through to Trentham and then we got onto the fast section of the A34. We ran through Tittensor to Darlaston and we continued down to the North end of Stone. We Veered left onto Newcastle Road and we ran into Stone town centre. After going around the one-way system and onto Stafford Road. We crossed over the A34 onto Eccleshall Road. We turned left onto Tilling Drive and we ran onto the industrial estate. We saw former Wolverhampton Council minibus WX07 UJT. We rejoined the A34 at the roundabout where the A51 goes Eastwards and we ran Southwards through the fast section on the A34 to the A513 roundabout. We ran the last couple of miles into town down the A34 onto Foregate Street and we turned right onto Chell Road where we got up and got off the bus. We set off along the path through to Mount Street and we continued onto Princes Street. We continued through the Hunters Row and we walked Westwards along Gaolgate Street. We stopped at pub. For dinner Matthew had a buttermilk chicken and waffle washed down with a glass of Coke. For afters Matthew had a slice of chantilly honeycomb cheesecake with ice cream. Once we had finished eating we set off onto Greengate Street and we went in the Katharine House Hospice Shop. We went on Salter Street and we walked over to Bank Psge. We ran up Market Square and Greengate Street and we passed old Hailfax bank. We crossed over the roundabout onto Bridge Street. We crossed over the Bridge Street and forwards onto Newport Road. We waited for the next bus towards Newcastle. Whilst we waited we saw Chaserider 630 on a #828 to Lichfield.

Chaserider 630 in Stafford

A short time later we saw Chaserider 670 on a #74 to Cannock.

Chaserider 670 in Stafford

Also seen was Select Bus 40 on a #7 to Moss Pit.

Select Bus 40 in Stafford

A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63177 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63177 in Stafford

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus.We set off onto the A34 and we tirned left onto South Walls. We followed the one way system on to Cope Street and left onto Eastgate Street. We ran forwards onto Salter Street and we turned left onto North Walls. We headed Northwards and we ran into the bus station. We left the bus station onto the A34 and we ran Northwards to the edge of town. We continued up the fast section of the A34 to the edge of Stone and then we turned left onto the industrial estate. We ran around the estate and onto Tiling Drive. We turned right onto Eccleshall Road and we crossed the A34 onto Stafford Road. We turned left onto Crown Street and we stopped at the main stop in Stone. We ran North up Newcastle Road and we re-joined the Northbound A34. We ran North through Meaford and Tittensor and up into 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 D&G Bus 33 on a #85 to Nantwich. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 63357 on a #22 to Longton.

First Potteries 63357 in Newcastle bus station

A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67177 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67177 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran up to the Jubilee roundabout. We ran onto the A53 and around the one-way system onto the A52. We ran up George Street into Hartshill and we ran down the hill into Stoke town centre. After a brief stop we continued along Church Street out of Stoke and over the A500. 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 cut through to the residential unit. We went upstairs and to his room to chill out. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road. We stopped at the kebab shop and we brought burger and fries. When we brought the food we walked back down City Road and we turned left into Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and use the computer. For tea Matthew had Pizza followed a couple of slices of syrup sponge puddinge. Later on Matthew went downstairs. We set off onto Temple Streeet and onto Christchurch Street and into the Co-operative food store. Matthew brought a Milky Way before setting off back to the house. We went onto Christchurch Street and onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went back to his room to chill out. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Crewe / Northwich 03-08-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
31	Crewe BS	Winsford, Guildhall	31	D&G Bus
30	Winsford, Guildhall	Northwich Interchange	37	D&G Bus
118	Northwich Interchange	Tarvin Sands, Shay Lane	82	D&G Bus
58	Tarvin Sands, Shay Lane	Northwich Interchange	82	D&G Bus
4	Northwich Interchange	Devanham, Bulls Head	31	D&G Bus
30	Devanham, Green Lane	Sandbach Common	37	D&G Bus

Today we decided to re-visit Crewe. Matthew chose this earlier in the week. We did no research fot this trip other than to check the weather which was for mainly cloudy with some unny intervals. Matthew woke up at 08:00 to have his medication. Matthew got up at 10:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We got ready and we set off just after 12:00 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 passing silver minibus Y661 TNS. 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. As we travelled up the A500 we saw Britannia Travel S10 KKE, blue minibus WG18 EEM, Turners 10 and silver minibus WX21 UTR. We continued past the M6 and over the West coact main line before we turned right onto the B5071. We ran past the DRS depot and under the railwy line and past the football ground. We turned left onto Catherine Street but we weren't able to park as there was a car right behind us. We ended up continuing Catherine Street and turning right onto Wood Street. There was a small free car park so we parked up there. I went to Benny's and I fetch some food. Matthew had a sausage bap and a can of Irn Bru. After we had finished eating we set off along Wood Street and we turned left onto the A534. We turned right onto Edelstone Road. We turned left onto Wistaston Road. We turned right onto Flag Lane and left onto Hightown. We turned right onto West Street and we turned right into the Asda Car park. We paid for parking and we said goodbye to mum. We walked across the the bus station and Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we walked out of the other end of the bus station to take a few pictures. We saw First Potteries 63174 on a #3 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63174 in Crewe bus station

We walked through the bus station, but as it was warm inside we walked out the other end. We saw D&G Bus 574 on a #38 to Macclesfield.

D&G Bus 574 in Crewe bus station

Matthew indicated that he wanted to do the #31. Whilst we waited we saw D&G Bus 47 on a #12 to Leighton Hospital.

D&G Bus 47 in Crewe bus station

Wetherspoons are open to returning to Crewe should a site be available. A short time later we saw D&G Bus 582 on a #84X to Nantwich. Eventually our bus appeared. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 31 on a #31 to Northwich.

D&G Bus 31 in Crewe bus station

We got on the bus and we booked D&G Network Duo Day tickets at £10.50 before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station. We turned left onto Victoria Street. We turned right onto Hightown and we ran forwards onto Broad Street. We crossed the railway line and we turned left onto the B5076. We followed the road right at the roundabout and we turned left onto a new road that goes into Leighton Hospital. At the hospital there was a small bus station. We left the bus station area and we crossed turned right onto A530. We turned left onto Eardswick Lane and we turned left onto Cross Lane. We turned right and we headed Northwards up the B5074. We continbued to Glebe Green and we turned left onto Swanlow Drive. We turned right onto Darnhall School Lane and left onto Glebe Green Drive. We ran forwards onto Durham Drive and we turned left onto Dover Drive. We continued onto Mount Pleasnt Drive and we turned right onto Denbigh Drive. We turned left onto Beeston Drive and we re-joined the B5074. We turned right onto the A54 and when we got to the centre of Winsford we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 30 as it continued towards Northwich.

D&G Bus 31 in Winsford

Once off the bus we went under the A54 and we headed towards Costa. On the way we saw D&G Bus 530 on a #37 to Crewe.

D&G Bus 530 in Winsford

We continued to Costa and Matthew used the toilet. Matthew had a slice of Millionaire's Shortbread and a bottle of Coke with ice. After we had finished we went outside to wait for a bus towards Crewe. As we waited we spotted a bus to Northwich on the map. Matthew indicated that he wanted to do this. We crossed back under the A54 and we waited at the bus stop. As short time later we saw the bus come around the corner. As it got closer we saw that it was D&G Bus 30 on a #37 to Northwich.

D&G Bus 30 in Winsford

We got on the bus and we flashed the D&G Network Duo Day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the High Street and we ran down the hill towards the big roundabout. We ran forwards onto Wharton Road and we continued Northwards out of Winsford. We ran up the A5018 and we turned right onto the Northbound A533. We ran fast up the A533 for around 1/2 mile and we turned left onto Jack lane. We ran into Moulton and we followed Jack Lane to the right and towards Mere Heath. We turned left onto London Road and we headed Northwards into Davenham and we crossed over the A556 and A533. We continued through Leftwich before joining the Northound A533. We ran forwards onto Dane Street and we turned right onto Watling Street before stoppping at the interchange where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 30 before it worked a #31 to Crewe.

D&G Bus 30 in Northwich Interchange

Once off the bus we had a look around. We saw D&G Bus 33 which was on layover and a bout to work the #89 to Knutsford.

D&G Bus 33 in Northwich Interchange

We had a walk into town through the open spcxe that used to be a market hall and toilets, WE headed down an alley and on the corner of the main street was a pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we had a glass of Coke. We sat in the bar and we watched some TV. When we had finished we walked back the same way towards the Interchange and we saw a mural of David Bowie. Back at the Interchange we saw D&G Bus 118 on layover.

D&G Bus 118 in Northwich Interchange

Matthew wanted to do this bus and we had around 30 minutes to wait for the next #82. We had a walk around. We went down Watling Street and we turned right onto High Street. We turned right onto Apple Market Street and we walked past an old pub. We stopped at a shop and Matth bought a small bottle of Cola and a twin Milky Way. We turned right by the pub we had neen in and back along the passageway and empty land to the Interchange. On an adjacent stand we saw Network Warrington 212 on a Cat9 to Warrington.

Network Warrington 212 in Northwich Interchange

Matthew expressed a wish to do the Warrington bus but we didn't have the right ticket. We said he could go to Warrington again in the near future. We decided to wait for 118 on the #82. Whilst we waited Matthew shared his Mailky Way with me and uncle Dave. The bus driver readied the bus for service and we got on the bus and we scanned the Network Bus Duo ticket before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off along Watling Street and then turned right into Chester Way. We crossed over the weaver and we turned left onto the A559. We ran West out of town and as we passed some minibuses parked up off Milner Road adjacent to Greenbank railway station. We continued out past Hartford station and we joined the Westbound A556. We turned right onto Weaverham Road and we ran through the Cuddington housing estate before we joined the Southbound A49. We turned right by the petrol station to re-join the A556 and we carried on Westwards. We then continued on along one of the fast parts of the route through Oakmere until we joined the Westbound A54. We continued for a further 500m and then we turned left into Kelsall village. After running through the village we re-joined the A54. It wsa going to be a dead time in Tarvin village, so we got up and got off the bus in Tarvin Sands. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 118 as it headed towards Chester.

D&G Bus 118 in Tarvin Sands

We crossed over the road and we waited for the bus towards Northwich. A short time later we saw it appear over the hill. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 58 on a #82 to Northwich.

D&G Bus 58 in Tarvin Sands

We got on the bus and we scanned the Network Bus Duo ticket before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off along the A54 we turned right again to run through Kelsall. We rejoined the A54 and we ran through Oakmere before we veered left onto the A556. At the crossed roads we turned left onto the A49 and we entered the estate in Cuddington along Ash Road. We ran through the estate and we rejoined the A556 and ran East to Harford where we came off and went onto the A559. We ran past Hartford and Greenbank railway stations and we entered Northwich from the West end crossing over the Weaver before coming into the interchange on Watling Street. Once we got off the bus we had to quickly walk down to stand G so we didn't get stranded at Northwich. The bus was already on stand and as we got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 4 on a #31 to Crewe.

D&G Bus 4 in Northwich Interchange

we got on the bus and we scanned the Network Bus Duo ticket before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Watling Street and we turned right onto the ring road. We followed the A533 out of town for about 1/3 of a mile before we veered left onto London Road. We crossed the A533 and we went over the roundabout over the A556. We continued Southwards into Davenham and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 4 as it continued towards Crewe.

D&G Bus 4 in Devanham

We had already arrange for mum to come and meet us in Sandbach. We had around 30 minutes here so we went to the pub across the road. Matthew went to the toilets and afterwards had a glass of coke. We sat in a small room in the front and whilst Matthew had his drink we watched the TV and I threw a few darts into the dartboard. When we had finished we went outside and met up with uncle Dave. We walked up another stop and by this time we only had about 5 minutes to wait. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 30 that we had been on earlier in the day.

D&G Bus 30 in Devanham

We got on the bus and we scanned the Network Bus Duo ticket for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We continued through the village of Davenham. We turned right onto Jack Lane and we ran through Moulton. We joined the Southbound A533 and we turned right onto Bostock Road. We ran forwards onto the B5355. We ran forwards onto Whaton Road and we crossed over the big roundabout at the bottom of Winsford onto the High Street. Whilst at one of the stops we saw Anthony's Travel coach ANT 856T going the other way. We turned left onto Dingle Lane and we turned right onto The Drumber. We turned right onto Dene Drive and we turned right onto the High Street. After a short wait at the stop outside the Guildhall. We ran down the High Street and we crossed the main roundabout onto the Southbound A54. We veered left onto Station Road and we ran along the narrow street towards Middlewich. At the roundabout we ran forwards into Winsford railway station. We did a lap of the car park and back out onto the main road. We turned right onto the A54 and we crossed over the railway line. We continued East for around 2 miles and we came into the West end of Middlewich. We ran around the one-way system and left onto the A54. After a brief stop at the main bus stop we turned right onto the A533. We turned right onto Long Lane South and right onto Warmingham Lane. We ran through the estate and we turned left Cross Lane. We turned right and we re-joined the Southbound A533. We ran alongside of the canal and into Sandbach through Elworth. We turned left Hightown and at the next roundabout we ran forwards on Congleton Road. We turned right onto The Commons and we ran onto the other side of the triangle where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 30.

D&G Bus 30 in Sandbach

We walked across the common and into a pub. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards he had a glass of Coke. We headed back to the car and I went to the chip shop. Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a bottle of Cherry Coke. When I had finished eating, we ran down the Western edge of town and we turned left onto the A534. We turned left onto the A533 and we continued over the M6 and through Thurlwood past the Royal Oak pub which is being refurbished. We continued through Rode Heath and onto the A5011. We ran down to Talke and we joined the Southbound A34. We ran about 2 miles to the A500 and we joined the Southbound side. We ran through Longport and Etruria and we came off the A500 in Stoke. We veered left onto Wheildon Road and we stopped at uncle Dave's house. Matthew drank some of uncle Rob's Irn Bru and we updated the calendar with today's trip. We said goodbye to uncle Dave and we got back in the car. We set off onto Wheildon Road past the former Regent which is back up for sale. We ran forwards onto Grove Road and we turned right onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton and at the roundabout we veered right onto Church Street. We turned right onto the A5035 and back to Blurton. Later on we did some more of the Blog and wrote an e-mail. Matthew ate a doughnut and we chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark

Trip to Newcastle / Stafford 29-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
23	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	1	D&G Bus
35946	Newcastle BS	Stafford, Chell Road	101	First Potteries
35935	Stafford BS	Newcastle BS	101	First Potteries
67153	Newcastle BS	Fenton, Smithpool Road	11	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus. A new link road has opened in the Little Horton area of Bradford. 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 Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Hanley. Behind us we saw First Potteries 44514 on a #11 to Hanley. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was D&G Bus 23 on a #1A to Wood Lane.

D&G Bus 23 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre. We continued along Church Street onto Hartshill Road and into the centre of Hartshill. We turned left into the Avenue and left again onto Hilton Road before turning right into the City General Hospital. hospital. As we travelled through the hospital we saw Safeguard YJ19 ARU. Once through the hospital we turned right onto the A34 and we ran into Newcastle. We crossed the roundabout and we ran up Barracks Road and into the bus station from the South end. Once we got to the bus station we got up and got off the bus. We walked out of the bus station and we waited for a bus towards Trentham Gardens. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 35941 on a #25 to Keele.

First Potteries 35941 in Newcastle bus station

A few minutes later a bus appeared and it was First Potteries 35946 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 35946 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Stafford before we went upstairs and down towards. We set off out of the bus station and onto Barracks Road. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we ran down through Trent Vale and into Hanford. We continued down through to Trentham and then we got onto the fast section of the A34. We ran through Tittensor to Darlaston and we continued down to the North end of Stone. We Veered left onto Newcastle Road and we ran into Stone town centre. After going around the one-way system and onto Stafford Road. We crossed over the A34 onto Eccleshall Road. We turned left onto Tilling Drive and we ran onto the industrial estate. We saw former East Riding Council minibus DG63 MXT. We rejoined the A34 at the roundabout where the A51 goes Eastwards and we ran Southwards through the fast section on the A34 to the A513 roundabout. We ran the last couple of miles into town down the A34 onto Foregate Street and we turned right onto Chell Road where we got up and got off the bus. In Stafford we saw Select Bus 33 on a #7 to Moss Pit.

Select Bus 33 in Stafford

Once off the bus we walked Westwards along Chell Road and we turned right onto Gaolgate Street and past the Market Square. We stopped at Greggs on Greengate Street and Matthew had a sausage roll and and a bottle of Coke. Once we had finished in the shop we walked back to the square and we ate the sausage roll and drank the Coke. Once we had finished eating and drinking we walked through the shopping centre and back onto Gaolgate Street. At the top we turned right and we stopped at the bus station. In the bus station we saw Chaserider 64 on a #74 to Cannock.

Chaserider 64 in Stafford bus station

A short time later we saw Select Bus 6 on a #9 to Highfields.

Select Bus 6 in Stafford bus station

Another vehicle seen was Select Bus 27 on a #877 to Wolverhampton.

Select Bus 27 in Stafford bus station

A short time later we saw Select Bus 5 on a #12 to Doxey.

Select Bus 5 in Stafford bus station

We waited for a bus back towards Newcastle. A short time later we saw Select Bus 40 on a #875 to Cannock.

Select Bus 40 in Stafford bus station

Afterwards we saw Chaserider 625 on a #828 to Lichfield.

Chaserider 625 in Stafford bus station

A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35935 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35935 in Stafford bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We left the bus station onto the A34 and we ran Northwards to the edge of town. Due to roadworks on the A34 roundabout we turned left onto the M6 link road and at the first roundabout we did a 180' turned and rejoined the A34. We continued up the fast section of the A34 to the edge of Stone and then we turned left onto the industrial estate. We ran around the estate and onto Tiling Drive. We turned right onto Eccleshall Road and we crossed the A34 onto Stafford Road. We turned left onto Crown Street and we stopped at the main stop in Stone. We ran North up Newcastle Road and we re-joined the Northbound A34. We ran Morth through Meaford and Tittensor and up into 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. Once we got ot the bus station we got up and got off the bus. In the bus station we stopped at the toilet. Afterwards we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67153 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67153 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran up to the Jubilee roundabout. We ran onto the A53 and around the one-way system onto the A52. We ran up George Street into Hartshill and we ran down the hill into Stoke town centre. After a brief stop we continued along Church Street out of Stoke and over the A500. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over city Road and walked back to the residential unit. Matthew went back upstairs to chill out in his room and use his computer and watch buses out of the window. Later on Matthew went downstairs to do his shopping. Outside we saw Shelton Care Group DY08 FFX. We went to do the shopping. transport for the trip was a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off onto City Road and we crossed over and onto Manor Street. At the end of Manor Street we turned left onto Victoria Road and we continued down Victoria Road and we stopped at McDonalds. Matthew went to the toilet and had a burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. We got an ABC Supreme taxi back to the residential unit. We set off up Victoria Road. We turned right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room and chilled out in his room and use his computer and watch buses out of the window. 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 Stafford / Cannock 12-11-2022

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
44514	Blurton, Magdalen Road	Hanford, Mayne Street	22	First Potteries
171	Hanford, Mayne Street	Stone, Radford Street	100	D&G Bus
65036	Stone, Radford Street	Stafford, Chell Road	101	First Potteries
704	Stafford BS	Rugeley BS	828	Chaserider
169	Rugeley BS	Cannock BS	63	Chaserider
18	Cannock BS	Moss Pit, Opp School Lane	875	Select Bus
33	Moss Pit, Opp School Lane	Stafford, Gatehouse Theatre	7	Select Bus
37157	Stafford, Chell Road	Walton, Eccleshall Road Shops	101	First Potteries
65034	Walton, Eccleshall Road Shops	Stone, Stafford Road	101	First Potteries
171	Stone, Stafford Road	Trentham, Barlaston Old Road	100	D&G Bus
67179	Trentham, Barlaston Old Road	Blurton, Magdalen Road	22	First Potteries

Today we decided to go to Stafford as mum was at work. Research for today consisted of checking the weather which was a for a mild dry day with some sunshine. I also researched the times of the D&G #100 service from Hanford. Matthew got up around 09:15 and had toast for breakfast. We had seen there was a #100 bus from Hanford around 11:39, so we decided to go for the 11:00 departure from Blurton. We set off just before 11:00 and we walked to the stop all the way over on Magdalen Road. We waited for the bus and a short time later it turned the corner. It was as expected First Potteries 44514 on a #22 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 44514 in Blurton

We got on the bus and booked Knot Day ticket at £7. This ticket is a multi-operator ticket valid throughout the Staffordshire area. We sat down ear to the back of the bus and the bus set off onto the A5035. We went past the Trentham Hotel we turned right into New Inn Lane where we passed the building site where new housing is being built. At the top of the hill we turned right into Hanford along Wilson Road and left onto Church Lane. When we got to the bottom of Church Lane we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 44514 as it carried on towards Newcastle.

First Potteries 44514 in Hanford

We decided to not catch the next #101 which was due in a few minutes and we would wait for the #100. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 65042 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 65042 in Hanford

Whilst we stood at the bus stop waiting for the #100 service, we saw 4 unidentified Leon's coaches, an unidentifed Happy Days coach, an unidentified Daish Holidays coach, Cabability SB15 PJY and Tidy Team YT08 WKD. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. It was D&G Bus 171 on a #100 to Stone as expected.

D&G Bus 171 in Hanford

We got on the bus and we placed the Knot tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the A34 past Trentham Gardens and we turned left onto the A5035. We turned right by Bod onto Barlaston Old Road and we headed Southwards past Strongford water treatment centre and Wedgwood. We continued into Barlaston village and we contnued Southpast the site of Meaford power station before joining the A34 near to Darlaston. We continued along the A34 for a short while and we Veered left onto Newcastle Road and we ran into Stone town centre. We stopped in the square and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 171 before it returned to Hanley.

D&G Bus 171 in Stone

Once off the bus we had a short wait for the next #101 to Stafford. We went in the pub and Matthew used the toilet. Afterwards we had a glass of Coke. When we had finished in the pub we crossed over the road to visit the cash machine. Whilst we waited we saw Bennetts Travel SJ16 BGU go past.

Bennetts Travel SJ16 BGU in Stone

We crossed back over the road and we waited for the bus to Stafford. A short time later we saw First Potteries 65036 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 65036 in Stone

We got on the bus and we scanned the Knot day tictes before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off around the one-way system past Morrisons and we saw Star MX13 APK. We continued down the A520 and we crossed over the A34 onto Eccleshall Road. We turned left onto Tilling Drive and we ran onto the industrial estate. We saw former Newcastle International Airport YJ16 DXP. We rejoined the A34 at the roundabout where the A51 goes Eastwards and we ran Southwards through the fast section on the A34 to the A513 roundabout. We ran the last couple of miles into town down the A34 onto Foregate Street and we turned right onto Chell Road where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 65036.

First Potteries 65036 in Stafford

Once off the bus we headed towards the market. We stopped at the toilet block oppsite to the market. One of the toilets wasn't open so Matthew had to use the other. We continued into the market up to the top corner and we stopped at The Chef's Cafe. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Dr Pepper. When we had finished eating we headed across to the bus station. We came out of the side entrance into the old guildhall shopping centre and we headed onto Chapel Street. We continued onto Broad Street and we turned right onto the passage through to Princes Street. We went forwards onto Hunters Row and we crossed Gaolgate Street past the Butler's Bell which is currently up for sale. We continued into the bus station and we saw Chaserider 194 on a #74 to Cannock.

Chaserider 194 in Stafford bus station

We asked Matthew which direction he would like to go in and he said Rugeley. There was a Lichfield bus in that direct in about 10 minutes. Whilst we waited we saw Select Bus 26 on a #9 to Highfields.

Select Bus 26 in Stafford bus station

A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Chaserider 704 on a #828 to Lichfield.

Chaserider 704 in Stafford bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Knot tickets to the driver. The bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Caserider 704 before we sat down towards the back of the bus.

Inside Chaserider 704

We set off out of the bus station and we joined the A34 and we turned left onto Chell Road. After a brief stop we continued onto Tenterbanks and we headed onto Bridge Street. We ran through the town centre and we crossed over the A34 onto the Northbound A518. We ran out of town for around a mile and we entered the hospital grounds. We returned to the A518 and we turned right onto Hydrant Way. We turned left onto Tixall Road and we crossed over Blackheath Lane. We continued into Tixall and we turned right onto Mill Lane. We turned right onto Main Road and we ran throught Great Haywood. We continued South through Little Haywood into Colwich and we joined A51. We travek South for 1/2 a mile or so and we turned right onto the A460. We turned right onto Plovers Rose and right onto Springfields Road. We followed the road around onto Crabtree Way and we turned left onto Green Lane. We turned right onto the A460 and we ran into town. We turned left onto Elmore Lane and we entered Rugeley bus station where we decided to get up and get off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Chaserider 704 before it continued towards Lichfield.

Chaserider 704 in Rugeley bus station

Already in the bus station was Chaserider 169 on a #63 to Cannock.

Chaserider 169 in Rugeley bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Knot tickets to the driver before we sat down towards back of the bus. The bus waited until departure time unil setting off onto Elmore Lane. We crossed the roundabout onto Sandy lane and we headed Southwards along the A460. We crossed over the Rugeley to Walsall line and we ran fast through the countryside to the North end of Hednesford. We turned right onto Victoria Road and we had a short wait at the main stops in Hednesford near to Tesco before continuing towards Cannock. We continued to the end of Victoria Street and we turned right onto Market Street. We crossed over the railway line and we turned left onto Cannock Street. We crossed over the roundabout and onto Belt Road. We turned left onto Huntington Terrace Road and we headed Southwards. We veered right onto Old Fallow Road and we turned left onto Pye Green Road. We joined the A34 and we ran Southwards into town. We turned left onto the B5012 and left into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Chaserider 169 before it returned to Rugeley on a #63 service.

Chaserider 169 in Cannock bus station

We walked down to the other end of the bus station and we saw Chaserider 611 on a #26 Pye Green circular.

Chaserider 611 in Cannock bus station

We headed into the shopping centre and Matthew used the toilet. Afterwards we headed back into the bus station and we had a look around to see what we could catch. We saw Chaserider 195 on a #74 to Stafford. Behind that was a Select Bus on a Stafford service. We saw it was Select Bus 18 on a #875 to Stafford.

Select Bus 18 in Cannock bus station

We got on and flashed the Knot ticket to the driver before we sat down. The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto the B5012 and we headed Westwards. We decided to go to Moss Pit and catch a #7 forward to Stafford. We crossed over the M6 and we turned left onto Woolgarston Way. We ran forwards onto Boscomoor Lane and we turned right into Vale Gardens.We ran forwards onto Filance Lane. We turned left onto Francis Green Lane and left onto Cannock Road. We continued onto New Road and we turned right onto the Northbound A449. We ran fast up the A449 and under the M6. We past Select Bus Services 31 on the #875 to Cannock. We crossed over the railway line and we climbed the hill up to Moss Pit where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Select Bus Services 18 before it continued towards Stafford.

Select Bus 18 in Moss Pit

We had just missed Select Bus 14 on a #7 to Stafford. The next bus that was due at the stop was the #878 to Stafford. Whilst we waited Matthew ate a rather squashed Fudge which I found in the bottom of the trip bag. We could see on the map that this was running a little late. We saw a bus turn the corner. As it got closer we saw it was Select Bus 33 on a #7 to Stafford.

Select Bus 33 in Moss Pit

When it was time for departure the bus set off up the A449. We ran Northwards over the railway line and we ran into Stafford. We crossed the big roundabout and we joined the Northbound A34. We turned left onto South Walls and rught onto Cope Street. We turned left onto Eastgate Street and where we got up an got off the bus. We got off the bus and crossed over the road. Matthew got another picture of Select Bus 33 as it went on a short layover.

Select Bus 33 in Stafford

We walked forwards onto Malt Mill Lane and we turned left onto North Walls and continued to the bus station. We saw Chaserider 62 on a #841 to Uttoxter.

Chaserider 62 in Stafford bus station

Also seen was Chaserider 610 on a #826 to Lichfield.

Chaserider 610 in Stafford bus station

We saw on the map that First Potteries 37157 was on it's way down the A34. so we decided to walk around the corner onto Chell Road and get on the bus there. A short time later as expected we saw First Potteries 37157 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 37157 in Stafford

We got on the bus and we the Knot ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off along Chell Road and we ran down to the railway station. Whilst we waited for time outside the railway station we saw an unidentified Borland Roadliner coach go past the end of the road on the A518. We set off from outside the railway station and we ran around the South end of town and over the river onto Cope Street. We ran up Eastgate and along North Walls and into the Gaol Square bus station. We left the bus station onto the A34 and we ran Northwards to the edge of town. We continued up the fast section of the A34 to the edge of Stone and then we turned left onto the industrial estate. We ran around the estate and onto Tiling Drive. We turned right onto Eccleshall Road and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 37157 before it continued on towards Hanley.

First Potteries 37157 in Walton

Once off the bus we walked along Eccleshall Road and we visited the Walton Fish Bar we brought sausage chipe and gravy and we went outside. We sat down outside the petrol station which is currently being refurbished, and we ate our sausage chips and gravy. Matthew washed down his food with a can of Coke. We set off back along Eccleshall Road and we waited for the next bus into Stone. A short time later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 65034 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 65034 in Walton

We got on the bus and we placed the Knot tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We worked out that we could intercept the #100 in Stone and reduce how far we had to walk. We set off along Eccleshall Road and we crossed the A34 onto Stafford Road. We turned left onto Crown Street and we got up and got off the bus by the toilet block. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 65034 before it continued on towards Hanley.

First Potteries 65034 in Stone

Matthew visited the toilet and afterwards he sat on the wall by the bus stop. Almost as soon as he sat on the wall the bus appeared from around the corner. It was as expected D&G Bus 171 on a #100 to Hanley.

D&G Bus 171 in Stone

We got on the bus and we flashed the Knot tickets to the driver. The bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside D&G Bus 171 before we sat down towards the back of the bus.

Inside D&G Bus 171

The bus set off along the one-way system and we veered left onto Newcastle Street. We continued up to the end and we joined the Northbound A34. We travleed about 1/3 mile Northwards and at the roundabout we turned right onto Meaford Road. We continued Northwards through Barlaston onto Barlaston Old Road and we ran Northwards to the end where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 171 as it continued Northwards towards Hanley.

D&G Bus 171 in Trentham

Once off the bus we crossed over Barlaston Old Road and walked past Bod before crossing over the A5035. We walked to the nearest stop and we saw that there was a #22 to Newstead due in a few minutes. We waited for a while and the bus turned the corner. We saw it was as expected First Potteries 67179 on a #22 to Newstead.

First Potteries 67179 in Trentham

We got on the bus and we placed the Knot ticket under the scanner for the fianl time today before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Longton Road towards Blurton. We crossed over the canal and the railway line and ran past the end of Stanley Matthews Way. We ran past the lay-by and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 67179 as it went back to the depot.

First Potteries 67179 in Blurton

We walked around the corner onto Magdalen Road and we got back to Blurton around 18:15. We chilled out and Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke. We uploaded pictures and we started to do some work on the Blog. Around 20:30 we went to take uncle Dave home via Aldi. We set off onto the A5035 and we turned right onto Stanley Matthews Way. We stopped st Aldi and we picked up some food for the weekend. When we had finished we set off onto Stanley Matthews Ways and we joined the Eastbound A50. We ran up to Heron Cross. We turned left into Grove Road and we ran forwards onto Wheildon Road. We stopped at uncle Dave's house. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards drank some of uncle Rob's pop. He also updated uncle Dave's calendar with the details of today's trip. We said goodbye to uncle Dave and we set off back to Blurton. We set off onto Wheildon Road and past the former Regent pub which is now up for sale. 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 at the roundabout we veered right onto Church Street. We turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive and left onto Finstock Avenue and back to Blurton. Later on we did some more of the Blog and wrote an e-mail. Matthew ate a peice of a scotch egg and a slice of cheesecake and we chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark