Trip to Stafford / Newport 04-05-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67146	Fenton, Victoria Place	Hanley BS	6	First Potteries
67158	Hanley BS	Stafford, Deanshill Close	101	First Potteries
3782	Stafford, Deanshill Close	Newport BS	5	Arriva Midlands
3771	Newport BS	Stafford, Railway Station	5	Arriva Midlands
67158	Stafford BS	Hanley BS	101	First Potteries
44511	Hanley BS	Longton, stop B	11	First Potteries
113	Longton, stop C	Fenton, adj Travers Court	1A	D&G Bus

Today Matthew was in residential and he was going out on the bus and to visit Stafford. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We saw Shelton Care Group YP70 JYJ outside. We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We waited for a bus towards Hanley. We continued along Christchurch Street. We onto City Road. At the top we crossed over Victoria Road to wait for the bus at the bus stop. We got to the bus stop in time we saw Travel Express GN14 DVX. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was dud First Potteries 67146 on a #6 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67146 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked the Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down Victoria Road and towards Joiners Square. At the roundabout we went forwards onto Lichfield Street. We turned left onto the ring road. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street and into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we went to the stop to wait for a bus to Stafford. A few minutes later we saw a bus come around the corner. It was First Potteries 67158 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 67158 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Stafford before sitting 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 past the roundabout where the new KFC has been built. 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 DKN. 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 turned right onto Gaolgate Street and past the Market Square to the Guildhall shopping centre. After a quick stop at Cash Converters. We continued through the Market Square and forwards onto Greengate Street. We crossed over onto Mill Bank and we ran down to Victoria Park. We walk northwards through the park and into the North West corner to the sensory play area. We walked through the park. We sat down and Matthew ate his a can of Coke and a Manchester Tart. After spending a while there we walked back to the South East corner of the park. We returned back into Station Road and we waited for a bus to Newport. Whilst we waited we saw Select Bus 26 on a #9 to Highfields.

Select Bus 40 in Stafford

Also seen was First Potteries 35938 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35938 in Stafford

We walked along Railway Street and we saw Guru Travel GX53 MWJ.

Guru Travel GX53 MWJ in Stafford

We turned right onto Castle Street and we walked down the path onto Martin Drive and we walked onto Kingsway. We turned right onto the A518 to wait for a bus to Trentham. A few minutes later we saw a bus come around the corner. It was Arriva Midlands 3782 on a #5 to Telford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off down the A518 under the M6 and into Billington. We ran through Haughton and we headed up through Gnosall and up over Coton and we continued into Coley and we ran out into open countryside. We climbed the hill into Newport into the Stafford Road and onto Stafford Street and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We decided to do a bus up back to Stafford. We went to the toilet and walked down the bus station. We turned left onto Stafford Street. We turned left onto High Street to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and had a glass of Coke. He also had chocolate fudge cake and ice cream. When we had finished we walked along High Street. We turned right onto Stafford Street and into the bus station. Whilst we waited we saw Arriva Midlands 3771 on a #5 to Stafford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off set off out of the bus station and onto Audley Road. We turned right onto Stafford Road. We crossed the roundabout onto the A518 and headed through Coley. We headed up through Coton and up over Gnosall and we continued through Billington into Castle Bank. We ran into Stafford. We ran down onto Newport Road. We went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. Near to the railway station we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over Church Street to wait for a First bus back up to Fenton. We saw Select Bus 30 on a #9 to Highfields.

Select Bus 30 in Stafford

We continued to the park and and Matthew decided he wanted to go to the toilet. Once out of the staion we had finished eating we went back past St Mary's into Tenterbanks and we turned right onto Water Street and we went into Mill Street. We walked over Church Lane and forwards onto St Mary's Place. We turned left onto Earl Street and we saw Chaserider 610 on a #826 to Lichfield.

Chaserider 610 in Stafford

Also seen was Chaserider 180 on a #841 to Uttoxeter.

Chaserider 180 in Stafford

We walked over market Square onto Gaolgate Street. We walked through the shopping centre and back onto Broad Street we visited Wilko and we continued to Home Bargains. We brought a bottle of Coke. Once we had finished we crossed over Gaolgate Street. At the top we turned right and we stopped at the bus station. In the bus station we saw Select Bus 9 on a #8 to Parkside.

Select Bus 9 in Stafford bus station

Also in the bus station was Select Bus 16 on a #9 to Highfields.

Select Bus 16 in Stafford bus station

In the meanwhile we saw Select Bus 11 which came into the bus station and afterwards went out of service.

Select Bus 11 in Stafford bus station

After a short while the bus back to Hanley appeared. It was First Potteries 67158 on a #101 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down. 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 we continued along onto Barracks Road and we crossed the roundabout onto the A53 and we went onto the one-way system on the A52. We veered left onto George Street and at the roundabout we went onto Shelton New Road. We crossed over the A500 and we ran up to Snow Hill. We ran up Broad Street and we turned right onto the anti-clockwise ring road. We turned left onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street. We climbed the hill and up into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew visited the toilet. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. It was First Potteries 44511 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 44511 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Longton we sat down. We set off up set off onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We turned left onto the ring road and left onto Lichfield Street and we turned right onto Birch Terrace. We followed the road around onto Charles Street and we turned right onto Old Hall Street. We crossed over the ring road onto Bucknall New Road. We ran down the hill through Limekiln lights and we turned right onto Dividy Road. We turned left onto Beverley Drive and right onto Dawlish Drive. We ran through the estate and back onto the A5272. We ran up to Adderley Green and we saw First Potteries 67148 parked in the garage. At the roundabout we turned right onto Anchor Road. We turned left onto Market Street and right onto Commerce Street past the former Co-op Bank. We went around the roundabout and turned right onto The Strand where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we went down The Strand and we entered the shopping precinct and we stopped at Poundland. We came out of the market and we crossed over The Strand and we waited for a bus back to Fenton. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 113 on a #1A to Audley.

D&G Bus 113 in Longton

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down The Strand. We turned left into Baths Road and we entered Longton Transport Interchange. After a brief stop we ran out onto Baths Road and we turned left under the railway line onto King Street. We ran through Foley into Fenton and forwards onto City Road. We went past KFC. As we approached the flat we got up and got off the bus. We walked back up Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room to chill out and use the computer. For tea tea had Pizza followed by a butterfly cake. We chilled out on his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Newport / Caerphilly 13-07-2023

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
47815	Newport BS	Caerphilly, Castle	50	Stagecoach South Wales
47906	Caerphilly, Castle	Newport BS	50	Stagecoach South Wales
BV22 VTN	Newport BS	Birmingham Coach Station	111	Edwards
BV23 ZXC	Birmingham Coach Station	Hanley BS	551	Selwyns

Today Matthew was in Newport and he was going out on the bus later on. Later on he was returning to the residential unit. Matthew got up around 06:50 and we got dressed and ready to go down for breakfast. We had full English breakfast and orange juice. After breakfast we returned to the hotel bag. After getting ready we set off onto foot down Corporation Road and we headed onto Coverack Road. We crossed over the Newport City Footbridge and went under the A4042 onto Friars Walk onto Market Square. We continued onto Market Square and we headed down to supercuts where Matthew used the toilet. When we had finished eating we waited for a bus to Caerphilly. Whilst we waited we saw Stagecoach South Wales 26199 on a #151 to Blackwood.

Stagecoach South Wales 26199 in Newport bus station

As short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Stagecoach South Wales 47815 on a #50 to Bargoed. We got on the bus and we booked MegaRider tickets at £4.60 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off onto Queensway and we turned left onto Bridge Street. We ran forwards onto North Street and we turned left onto Havelock Street. We turned right into Stow Hill and we turned left onto Bassaleg Road. We turned left onto Oxford Road and we ran forwards into Bassaleg and we ran around through the housing estates before running into the A468 and we travelled through Lower Machen up to Trethomas. We went up the B4600 and we crossed over Caerphilly. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Stagecoach South Wales 47815 before it continued towards Bargoed.

Stagecoach South Wales 47815 in Caerphilly

We continued up the B4263 and we headed into the Caerphilly Castle Gift Shop. We visited The visitors centre and Matthew needed to toilet. Once we let the bus go we walked up the B4600 towards Castle Court Shopping Centre and we stopped at the Pound Bakery. Matthew had a couple of gingerbread man and a bottle of Coke. We went outside and we saw Stagecoach South Wales 27691 on a #120 to Blaenrhondda.

Stagecoach South Wales 27691 in Caerphilly

Once we had finished we walked through B4600 and we saw Harris 26 on a C17 to Bargoed.

Harris 26 in Caerphilly

Also seen was Harris 29 on a H to Trethomas.

Harris 29 in Caerphilly

It pulled onto the stand and we saw that it was Stagecoach South Wales 47906 on a #50 to Newport. 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. We set off along the B4263 and left onto the A468 and we ran through Bedwas and and Trethomas. We continued through Lower Machen and we ran around through the housing estates before running into the A468 . We continued parrallel to the M4 into Duffryn and past Tredegar Park. We turned left onto the B4237 and we ran past Belle Vue Park. On the edge of the city centre we ran forwards onto Kingsway and we turned right onto Emlyn Street. We ran Northwards up the A4042 and we pulled into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We set off onto Market Street and we turned right onto High Street and we stopped at McDonalds. Matthew had a burger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. Once we had finished we walked down High Street and we walked up Commercial Street and we crossed over the footbridge and went under the A4042. We continued along Corn Street and we visited a pub and Matthew had a glass of Coke. Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we walked back onto Corn Street and we walked aroubd to Newport Market. We visited The Cheesecake Guy and Matthew had a biscoff cheesecake in a jar and a glass of Coke. Afterwards Matthew used the toilet. We still had some time to kill before the coach was due so we went for a walk. We headed Southwards down the A4042 near to the river. We saw Newport bus 439 running out of service.

Newport bus 439 in Newport bus station

We headed back to the bus station and we waited for the coach back North. As short time later we saw it was Edwards BN64 FKZ.

Edwards BN64 FKZ in Newport bus station

A short time later the bus appeared and it was Edwards BV22 VTN on a #111 to Birmingham.

Edwards BV22 VTN in Newport bus station

We got on the coach after putting the cases in the luggage compartent and we sat down. We set off Northwards up the A4042. We hoined the Eastbound M4 and we came off at juntion 24 before heading North Eastwards up the A449. We ran for about 12 miles up to Raglan and we joined the Eastbound A40. We ran through Monmouth and to the North of Ross-on-Wye before we joined the M50. We ran Eastwards to the other end of the M50 before joining the Northbound M5. We ran Northwards through Gloucestershire and Worcestershire and we came off the M5 at junction 3. We ran Northwards up the Quinton Expressway up to Quinton Island and we joined the Eastbound A456. At Fiveway we tuned right onto the A4540. We crossed the A38 before turning left onto Sherlock Street. We ran forwards onto Barfors Street and we entered Digbeth coach station where we got up and got off the coach. Once of the coach we found a local chip shop and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Coke. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we waited for the coach back to Stoke. A short time later the coach appeared on stand and it was Selwyns BV23 ZXC on a #550 to Liverpool.

Selwyns BV23 ZXC in Birmingham

We got on the coach after putting the cases in the luggage compartemtn and we sat down. We set off our of the coach station and we ran along the B4100 onto the A47. We joined the Northbound A4540 before joining the Northbound A38. We re-joined the motorway and we continued up through Staffordshire. We ran North to junction 15 where we cam off onto the A500. At the junction of City Road we saw Copeland's Tours new coach MIB 783 about turn right onto City Road. We continued along the A500 to the Stoke Road junction and we turned right onto Stoke Road. We went under the railway line and up the hill through Shelton and forwards onto Snow Hill We ran under the railway line and up through Shelton. We ran up Broad Street and we turned right onto the anti-clockwise ring road. We turned left onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street. We climbed the hill and up into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew visited the toilet. We crossed over Lichfield Street. We called for a Lucky Seven taxi. We got in the taxi and we set off down Lichfield Street and over the ring road. We ran down to joiners Square and we went over the roundabout onto Victoria Road past Adsa and the B&M. We turned right onto Manor Street and we turned right onto City Road and we ran down the hill to Smithpool Road. We turned left and left again onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room and chilled out on his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Newport / Cardiff 12-07-2023

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
317	Newport BS	Cardiff, Stop HF	30	Cardiff Bus
735	Grangetown, Pentre Street	Cardiff Bay Mermaid Quay	8	Cardiff Bus
768	Cardiff Bay, Millennium Centre	Cardiff, Philharmonic JP	6	Cardiff Bus
419	Cardiff, Churchill Way HM	St Mellons, Willowdene Way	44	Cardiff Bus
417	Old St Mellons, Wern Fawr Lane	Newport BS	30	Newport Bus

Today was the second day of the short break in Newport. Research for today consisted of looking up the various day tickets for the local operators and checking the weather. Matthew woke up around 07:00 and had toast for breakfast. A little later on he had a glass of Coke. After getting ready we set off onto foot down Corporation Road and we headed onto George Street Bridge onto the A4042. We went into the bus station and we had a look around to see what we could catch. The plan was to go to Cardiff. Whilst we waited we saw Newport bus 309 on a #73 to Chepstow.

Newport bus 309 in Newport bus station

Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards waited for the bus. A short time later we saw it was Cardiff Bus 317 on a #30 to Cardiff. We got on the bus and we booked a Network Rider day tickets £9 each before we went upstairs. The top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Cardiff Bus 317.

Inside Cardiff Bus 317

We set off out off the bus station and we headed Southwards down the A4042. We turned right onto Emlyn Street and we ran forwards onto Kingsway. We turned right and we headed South Westwards down the B4237. We passed the hospital and Bell Vue Park and we headed out of town. We crossed the Ebbw River and we headed Westwards along the A48 past Tredegar Park. The road turned South Westwards and we ran for a few miles alongside the A48(M) before going forwards onto the B4487. We ran through St Mellons and Rumney and we crossed over the Rhymney River and we ran forwards onto the A4161. We continued into Cardiff past the hospital and we turned left onto Guilford Street. We ran past Cardiff Queen Street station and we turned left onto Churchill Way. We turned right onto the A4160 and we stopped outside of the Unison office where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took a picture of Cardiff Bus 317 before it went off out off service.

Cardiff Bus 317 in Cardiff

Once off the bus we set off towards the new interchange outside of the railway station. We walked past the Vue cinema and we saw Cardiff Bus 147 on a #8 to Cardiff Bay.

Cardiff Bus 147 in Cardiff

We crossed over the river and we walked along Tudor Street. We turned left onto Clair Road and we headed Southwards. We went under the railway line and we walked for about 1/4 mile to a bus stop. We waited for a Southbound bus. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Cardiff Bus 735 on a #8 to Cardiff Bay.

Cardiff Bus 735 in Grangetown

We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Rider day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off Southwards along Clare Road and at the 6 way juntion we veered slight left onto Corporation Road. We joined the A4119 and we crossed over the river Taff. We turned right onto Adelaide Street and we turned left onto Stuart Street. We arrived at Mermaid Quay and we got up and got off the bus. Once off bus we waled towards the quayside and we had a walk around. We went to a cafe and Matthew had a burger washed down with a coke. Afterwards we stopped for some ice cream and we headed up Bute Street and we headed to the bus stop by the Millenium centre. We waited for a bus towards Cardiff. A short time later we saw one approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Cardiff Bus 768 on a #6 to Cardiff.

Cardiff Bus 768 in Cardiff Bay

We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Rider day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto the Northbound A470 and we headed Northwards into Cardiff city centre. We turned left onto the A4160 and we turned right onto St Mary Street. We ran under the railway line and we crossed over Penarth Road before we got up and got off the bus. Behind us we saw Stagecoach South Wales 26102 on a #122 service to Tonypandy.

Stagecoach South Wales 26102 in Cardiff

We set off on foot along Sy Mary Street and we continued onto the High Street. At the end of the high Street we could see Cardiff Castle. We stopped to use the toilet before we headed down to Churchill Way to wait for a #44 to St Mellon. On the way we saw Cardiff Bus 351 on an inbound #52 service from Cyncoed.

Cardiff Bus 351 in Cardiff

We arrived at Churchill Way and we waited for our bus. Whilst we waited we saw Cardiff Bus 306 on a #11 to Pensarn Green.

Cardiff Bus 306 in Cardiff

A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Cardiff Bus 419 on a #44 to St Mellons.

Cardiff Bus 419 in Cardiff

We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Rider day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Churchill Way and we turned right onto North Edward Street. We turned left onto station Terrace and we turned right onto the A4161. We headed Eastwards out of the town and we crossed over the river Rhymney. We turned right onto New Road and we continued Eastwards. We continued onto Greenway Road crossing over the B5239 and we headed Northwards. We turned right onto Trowbridge Road and we headed into a housing estate. We turned left onto Aberdaron Road and right onto Glan-Y-Mor Road. We turned left onto Brymbala Way and left onto Hendre Road. We turned right onto Tresigin Road and left onto Crickhowell Road. We turned left onto Willowbrook Drive we we headed clockwise around a massive housing estate. We turned right onto Crickhowell Road. andn we ran throu the middle of the estate. We turned left onto Willowbrook Drive and we ran anti-clockwise around the estate. When we got to Crumlin Fields we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Cardiff Bus 419 as it ran back towards Cardiff.

Cardiff Bus 419 in St Mellons

We set off on foot across to the main road to catch a #30 back to Newport. We headed Westwards along Willowbrook Drive and we crossed over the road and went into the park. We walked through the park onto Vaendre Lane and onto the B4487. We crossed over the road and we waited at the Eastbound bus stop. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Newport Bus 417 on a #30 to Newport.

Newport Bus 417 in St Mellons

We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Rider day tickets to the driver for the final time today before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off North Eastwards up the B4487 and at the roundabout we ran forwards onto the A48. We ran parrallel to the A48(M) past St Mellons golf course and through Castleton. We continued parrallel to the M4 into Duffryn and past Tredegar Park. We turned left onto the B4237 and we ran past Belle Vue Park. On the edge of the city centre we ran forwards onto Kingsway and we turned right onto Emlyn Street. We ran Northwards up the A4042 and we pulled into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we visited Newport Market and Matthew went to the toilet. When we had finished we walked Southwards alongside the river Usk and we crossed over the river on George Street bridge. We turned right onto Corporation Street and we stopped at the apparment. We chilled out at the appartment and Matthew wrote some of his Blog and checked e-mails. For tea Matthew had a burger and a cup of Coke. Later on Matthew went out. We walked into town and we visited the shopping centre. We visited a pub and Matthew had a glass of Coke. Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we walked back out of town over the river and onto Corporation Street and back to the apartment. Matthew chilled out and used his computer before going to bed at 00:00... Mark

Trip to Newport 11-07-2023

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
BV23 ZWA	Hanley BS	Birmingham Coach Station	551	Selwyns
BV17 GTF	Birmingham Coach Station	Newport BS	112	Edwards

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was later on we were travelling up to Newport. Matthew got up around 06:00. He chilled out in his room in the morning and waited for us to taxi. As the coach was leaving from Hanley. We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. In the distance we saw Temple Street church minibus RX18 GZW. We carried on along Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We went to coach in a Lucky Seven taxi. We set off Christchurch Street. We crossed over City Road and we ran along Manor Street. We ran down the hill through Fenton and at Joiners Square. We turned left onto Lichfield Street and we got out of the taxi and we walked up Lichfield Street. We continued onto Tontine Street Tontine street and onto Lichfield Street and back to the bus station. We visited the toilet and afterwards. We had arranged with coach to London up near to the bus station. As we walked through the bus station we saw First Potteries 67174 on a #7A to Biddulph. A short time later the bus appeared and it was Selwyns BV23 ZWA on a #551 to London.

Selwyns BV23 ZWA in Hanley bus station

e got on the coach after putting the cases in the luggage compartemtn and we sat down. The bus waited for time before setting off out of the bus station. We went down John Street and onto Bethesda Street and left onto Broad Street. We ran down the hill and over the ring road onto Snow Hill. We ran forwards onto Stoke Road and down the hill through Shelton into Stoke. We crossed over the A500. At Sideway and we ran Southwards towards the motorway. We joined the M6 and we ran Southwards through Staffordshire into the West Midlands. We came off the M6 at junction 6 and we joined the Aston Expressway. We ran into Birmingham and forwards onto the A4400. We turned left onto Wrentham Street and we turned onto Rea Street and into Digbeth coach Station. We got off the coach and Matthew visisted the toilet. Once off the bus we set off onto Digbeth and we stopped at Subway and Matthew had a chicken Sub with a cup of Coke and a cookie. After a short wait we saw National Express West Midlands 4466 on a #97 to Birmingham. We continued along Digbeth and we cut through onto Digbeth coach Station. As it got closer we saw that it was required Edwards BV17 GTF on a #112 to Haverfordwest. We got on the coach after putting the cases in the luggage compartemtn and we sat down. We set off along Sackville Street and onto Bradford Street. We turned right onto the B4100 and left onto the A4540. We went down the fast section of the B4100. At the roundabout we turned left onto the ring road and then right at the next roundabout onto the A456. As we left town it started to rain a little. We ran through West Hagley and Hagley. We joined the Northbound M5. At junction 15 we came off the M50 and we turned right onto the A40 and we ran down the hill through Ross-on-Wye and up into Greytree. We continued up towards Pencraig. We ran around the estate and we crossed over the A449. We ran along the normal route through Cat's Ash and we rejoined the M4 and then we went North up the A4042 to Newport. We got up and got off the coach. Matthew took another picture of Edwards BV17 GTF as it continued Northwards towards Haverfordwest.

Edwards BV17 GTF in Newport bus station

We crossed the lane that joins A4042 and we saw Newport Bus 311 on the #73 to Chepstow.

Newport Bus 311 in Newport

We crossed over the footbridge and went under the A4042 onto George Street Bridge. We turned right onto Corporation Road and at the appartment. We came in and we settled down. Matthew had a chicken, bacon potatoes and carrots and a can of orange Fanta. We decided to go out and get a couple of walk in. We set off along Corporation Road and we ran forwards onto the A48. We turned right onto the Queensway Meadows and forwards onto Seven Stiles Ave. We got out of the taxi When we walked along Seven Stiles Ave and we went to Cineworld. Matthew had a and cup of Coke. He went to the toilet and afterwards he saw Spider-Man Across The Spider-Verse. Movie at the cinema. When he had finished we set off back down Seven Stiles Ave We turned right onto Queensway Meadows and left to stay on the A48. At the roundabout we turned right onto Corporation Road at the appartment. We came in and we settled down. After a late tea will chilled out in the room. Matthew watched TV and we did some work on the Blog. We did some more of the Blog and we wrote e-mails. Matthew went to bed around 00:30... Mark

Trip to Stafford / Penkridge 10-07-2021

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
18	Stafford Chell Road	Moss Pit, School Lane	7	Select Bus
12	Moss Pit, School Lane	Penkridge, Crown Bridge	878	Select Bus
30	Penkridge, Crown Bridge	Stafford BS	875	Select Bus
3784	Stafford BS	Newport BS	5	Arriva Midlands
3749	Newport BS	Stafford, Railway Station	5	Arriva Midlands
3741	Stafford BS	Oakengates BS	5	Arriva Midlands
3748	Oakengates BS	Telford BS	5A	Arriva Midlands

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to Stafford. New road leads the way for Stafford Station Gateway Masterplan. 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.

Temple Street Church RX18 GZW in Fenton

Matthew chilled out in his room before going out. We saw red minibus BJ12 OAN.

BJ12 OAN in Fenton

Matthew put his camera and we got some batteries and his bag and we went downstairs to the car. Just after 10:30 we set off to Stafford in a car. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. We turned right onto Station Bridge Road and we continued onto Heron Street. We went through the traffic lights and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton along Blurton Road and we turned right onto Church Road. At the light we turned right onto the A5035 We continued over the railway line into into Trentham and at the A34 we turned left to go South. For dinner today we stopped at the lay-by opposite to the Monkey Forest and Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a bottle of Irn Bru. After we had finished eating we continued South through the roadworks and past Stone. As we passed to the West of Stone near to The George & Dragon. South of the A51 we had a good fast run down to Beaconside and we ran the last couple of miles into Stafford town centre. At the big roundabout we went right onto Chell Road and we went passed Sainsbury's. We turned left by the College and we parked at the car park next to Wilkinson's. Matthew visited the toilet and then we said goodbye to mum before we walked onto Chell Road. We saw First Potteries 65035 on a #101 to Hanley. As it got closer we saw that it was dud Select Bus 18 on a #7 to Moss Pit. We got on the bus and we booked Knot Day ticket at £5.95 each before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off through the town along Broad Street and Earl Street. We went around the Lichfield Road Gyrator and onto the A449. As we traveled towards the railway line. When we got to Rising Brook we turned right onto John Amery Drive and we ran through the estate and forwards Burton Banks Lane. At the end we turned left onto Moss Pitt where we got up and got off the bus. As we considered what we could do, we saw a bus stopped down the road heading our way. As it got closer we saw that it was required Select Bus 12 a #878 service to Wolverhampton. We got on the bus and we flashed the Knot Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off along Moss Pit the A449. We ran through Acton Gate we went past McDonald's. We crossed the railway line and we went under the M6. We ran fast along the a road to the North edge of Penkridge where we hit the 30mph section of the road. About a 1/2 a mile later we got up and got off the bus in the town centre. The public toilets were actually open today, so Matthew used the facilities. Once he had finished we crossed the main road and we went in the Festival garden to have something to eat. Matthew shared a double Milky Way with me and Uncle Dave and he also had a drink of Cherryade. when to bus back to Stafford was due we left the Festival Garden and we stood at the stop. A few minutes later we saw the bus turn out of the side Street. As it got closer we saw that it was dud Select Bus 30. The bus set off up the A449 and as we left the village the bus went fast up to the M6. On the other side we slowed down as we got to the residential Moss Pit area. We continued forwards onto Rising Brook. We turned right onto Rickerscote Road. We continued through Rickerscote. We turned left onto Silkmore Lane. We turned left onto Sidney Avenue. We turned right onto Exeter Street. We turned left onto Silkmore Lane. We ran down into Queensville. At the big roundabout we got onto the A518 before turning into Station Road. we turned right onto Bridge Street. We turned right onto South Walls. We turned left onto Cope Street. We ran up Eastgate and along North Walls and into the Gaol Square bus station. We left the bus station where we got up to get off the bus. We walked back to the toilet block and Matthew used the toilet here again. After he had done we set off onto Chell Road to walk around to the bus station. As we got there we saw required Arriva Midlands 3784 on a #5 to Telford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Knot Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off bus set off along Chell Road and we ran down to the railway station past the new cafe in Victoria Park. We turned right onto Newport Road. We continued into Castle Bank. We continued Westwards along the A518 under the M6 and into Billington. We ran through Haughton. We headed up through Gnosall and up over Coton. As we travelled up we saw Arriva Midlands 3755 on a #5 to Stafford. We continued into Coley and we ran out into open countryside. We climbed the hill into Newport into the Stafford Road and onto Stafford Street and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We decided to do a bus up back to Stafford. A few minutes later we saw Arriva Midlands 3119 on a #519 to Shrewsbury. We went to the toilet and walked down the bus station. We turned left onto Stafford Street. We turned left onto High Street to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and had a glass of Coke. He also had chocolate fudge cake and ice cream. When we had finished we walked along High Street. We turned right onto Stafford Street and into the bus station. Whilst we waited we saw Arriva Midlands 3749 on a #5 to Stafford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off set off out of the bus station and onto Audley Road. We turned right onto Stafford Road. We crossed the roundabout onto the A518 and headed through Coley. We headed up through Coton and up over Gnosall. As we travelled up we saw Arriva Midlands 3780 on a #5 to Telford. We continued through Billington into Castle Bank. We ran into Stafford. We ran down onto Newport Road. We went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. Near to the railway station we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus We set off onto Victoria Road. We turned left onto Tenterbanks. We turned right onto Water Street and we turned right into Mill Street. We walked onto Greengate Street and forwards through Market Square onto Gaolgate Street. At the top end we turned right and into the bus station. After a while we saw Arriva Midlands 3741 on a #5 to Telford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Knot Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off bus set off along Chell Road and we ran down to the railway station past the new cafe in Victoria Park. We turned right onto Newport Road. We continued into Castle Bank. We continued Westwards along the A518 under the M6 and into Billington. We ran through Haughton. We headed up through Gnosall and up over Coton. As we travelled up we saw Arriva Midlands 3734 on a #5 to Stafford. We continued into Coley and we ran out into open countryside. We climbed the hill into Newport into the Stafford Road and onto Stafford Street and into the bus station onto Stafford Street and we headed into the centre of town. We turbed right onto Wellington Road and we ran South West for a short distance before turning left onto Granville Road. We turned right onto Ashworth Way and we ran into Aston. At the end of the road we turned right onto The Dale before we re-joined Wellington Road. At thr roundabout we joined the A518 and we went West for one junction before turning left into Lilleshall village. As we entered the village. We ran through the village and then we ran forwards onto Wellington road into the village of Muxton. We got close to the A518 again and we turned left onto the A4640. We turned right onto School Road and we ran forwards onto Queens Road. We turned right onto Wrekin Drive and near to the shops we turned left onto Winifreds Drive. We turned left onto West Avenue and right onto Park Road. We turned left onto Furnace Lane and under the B4373 onto Moss Road. We continued Southwards into Oakengates along Gower Street and at the end we turned right onto West Street. We ran forwards onto Station Hill and under the A442. We turned right onto Uxacona Way and around the North end of town before entering the bus station. We got off the bus bus we walked into town and we visited the Co-operative food store. Matthew had a small can of Coke and a few chocolate bars. We paid for our stuff and we headed back to the bus station. We sat in the bus stop and Matthew had a Bounty whilst we waited for the bus. A few minutes later we saw required Arriva Midlands 3748 on a #5A to Telford. We got on the bus and we placed the Knot Day tickets under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We ran down Uxacona Way and by the railway station we turned left onto station Road. We crossed over the A442 and we ran East along the B5061 until we got to the A5. We went South over the M54 and we headed to Telford railway station. There we nobody there to get on or off the bus so we came straight back out and onto the roundabout. We crossed over the A442 and onto Hollinsgate before going forwards onto Grange Central. We turned right onto Northfield street and we ran into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once of the bus we saw Arriva Midlands 3734 on layover. Matthew used the toilet. The toilets were right by the entrance. Once we had used the facilities we walked back into the bus station. A few minutes later we saw Chase 52 on a X14 to Hawks Green. In the end mum ran out time on the car park so she came to pick us up outside the bus station. We got in the car and Matthew had a Greggs sausage roll and a can of Irn Bru. We set off onto Northfield Street and we turned left onto Grange Central. We joined the Northbound A442 and we ran northwards to the edge of town. We turned righ onto the Eastbound A518 and we ran northwards up to Newport. At the Southern end of town we joined the Northbound A41 which by-passes the town centre to the East. At Forton we got onto the Northbound A519 and we did this through Eccleshall up to the edge of Stoke-on-Trent. Near to the A500 we turned right onto Whitmore Road. We turned right onto the A34 and by Trentham Gardens we turned left onto the A5035. We ran over the railway into Blurton and forwards into Dresden. We went to Longton to check out what was parked at Z Carz this evening. There was nothing on the spare ground again and we turned left into Willow Row to see what was in the compound. We saw Z Carz Ford minibus PY08 KDX. We returned onto the A50 and we ran up to Heron Cross onto Heron Street and we followed the road around onto Station Bridge Road. We turned left onto Christchurch street and left again onto Masterson Street. We turned right onto Watkin Street and right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew had a can of Irn Bru. For a late tea Matthew had a chickenburger and fries washed down with a cup of Coke. Matthew went back to the room and went on his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Trip to Stafford / Penkridge 15-08-2020

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
63117	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	11	First Potteries
65038	Newcastle BS	Stafford, Chell Road	101	First Potteries
3928	Stafford, The Sun PH	Penkridge, Crown Bridge	75	Arriva Midlands
3932	Penkridge, Crown Bridge	Stafford BS	75	Arriva Midlands
2511	Stafford Chell Road	Newport BS	5	Arriva Midlands
2518	Newport BS	Stafford, Railway Station	5	Arriva Midlands
32630	Stafford Chell Road	Stone, Stafford Road	101	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in residential and he was going to his day service. He was also going to Stafford on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Whilst he was waiting to out we saw First Potteries 63101 on a #11 to Hanley. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. We continued to the stop outside the flats and we waited for a bus to Newcastle. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63117 on a #11 to Newcastle. We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street. After a brief stop in Stoke we continued along church Street and forwards onto Hartshill Road. We ran up the hill and into Hartshill. We ran forwards onto George Street and we ran down the hill into Newcastle. We turned left at the roundabout onto Barracks Road and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we waited for a bus towards Stafford. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 65038 on a #101 to Stafford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of 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 London Borough of Enfield minibus DK58 HPY. 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 we walked Westwards along Chell Road and we turned left onto Broad Street. We continued onto Stafford Street and we turned right onto Gaolgate Street. We continued through the Market Square and forwards onto Greengate Street. We crossed over the roundabout onto Bridge Street and we saw Arriva Midlands 3755 on a #6 to Rickerscote. We crossed over the bridge. We stopped at a pub and Matthew had a chickenburger and fries washed down with a glass of Coke. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards had a chocolate fudge cake and custard. when we had finished we walked down Bridge Street and forwards onto Newport Road. We waited for the next bus towards Newcastle. Whilst we waited we saw Arriva Midlands 3928 on a #75 to Cannock. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off onto the A34. We turned right onto Silkmore Lane. We turned right onto Exeter Street. We turned left onto Sidney Avenue. We turned right onto Silkmore Lane. We continued through Rickerscote. We turned right onto Rickerscote Road. We turned left onto Rising Brook. We continued forwards onto Moss Pit the A449. We ran through Acton Gate past the site of new McDonald's. We crossed the railway line and we went under the M6. We ran fast along the a road to the North edge of Penkridge where we hit the 30mph section of the road. About a 1/2 a mile later we got up and got off the bus in the town centre. Once off the bus we walked across to the public toilets. Matthew used the toilet and I picked uo a couple of bus timetables. Once he had finished we crossed the main road and we went in the Festival garden to have something to eat. Matthew shared a double Milky Way and he also had a drink of Cherryade. Whilst we ate National Express West Midlands 852 on the #54 to Wolverhampton. A few minutes later we saw the bus turn out of the side Street. As it got closer we saw that it was dud Arriva Midlands 3932. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off up the A449 and as we left the village the bus went fast up to the M6. On the other side we slowed down as we got to the residential Moss Pit area. We continued forwards onto Rising Brook. We turned right onto Rickerscote Road. We continued through Rickerscote. We turned left onto Silkmore Lane. We turned left onto Sidney Avenue. We turned right onto Exeter Street. We turned left onto Silkmore Lane. We ran down into Queensville. At the big roundabout we got onto the A518 before turning into Station Road. we turned right onto Bridge Street where we saw Ridleys Coaches YT09 YHL. We turned right onto South Walls. We turned left onto Cope Street. We ran up Eastgate and along North Walls and into the Gaol Square bus station. We left the bus station where we got up to get off the bus. We walked back to the toilet block and Matthew used the toilet here again. After he had done we set off onto Chell Road to walk around to the bus station. As we got there we saw required Arriva Midlands 2511 on a #5 to Telford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off bus set off along Chell Road and we ran down to the railway station past the new cafe in Victoria Park. We turned right onto Newport Road. We continued into Castle Bank. We continued Westwards along the A518 under the M6 and into Billington. We ran through Haughton. We headed up through Gnosall and up over Coton. As we travelled up we saw Arriva Midlands 3734 on a #5 to Stafford. We continued into Coley and we ran out into open countryside. We climbed the hill into Newport into the Stafford Road and onto Stafford Street and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We decided to do a bus up back to Stafford. A few minutes later we saw Arriva Midlands 3119 on a #519 to Shrewsbury. We went to the toilet and walked down the bus station. We turned left onto Stafford Street. We turned left onto High Street to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and had a glass of Coke. He also had chocolate fudge cake and ice cream. When we had finished we walked along High Street. We turned right onto Stafford Street and into the bus station. Whilst we waited we saw Arriva Midlands 2518 on a #5 to Stafford. We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus before the bus set off set off out of the bus station and onto Audley Road. We turned right onto Stafford Road. We crossed the roundabout onto the A518 and headed through Coley. We headed up through Coton and up over Gnosall. As we travelled up we saw Arriva Midlands 3622 on a #5 to Telford. We continued through Billington into Castle Bank. We ran into Stafford. We ran down onto Newport Road. We went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. Near to the railway station we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus We set off onto Victoria Road. We turned left onto Tenterbanks where we saw Arriva Midlands 3734 on a #5 to Telford. we crossed the roundabout onto Chell Road. Matthew took a few bus picture waiting for a bus back to Stone. We decided not to do this bus and we waited for the next one. A short time later we saw required First Potteries 32630 on a #101 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we flashed the Network Day ticket to the driver for the final time today and we went upstairs we sat down. The bus set off along Chell Road and we ran down to the railway station past the new cafe in Victoria Park. 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 crossed the A34 onto Stafford Road. We turned left onto Crown Street. We got up and got off the bus. Matthew wanted to go to the toilet. We had a walk we set off onto Crown Street. We turned right onto Granville Square. We turned right onto High Street. We went into B&M and we brought a bottle of Coke and a few chocolate bars. Once we had finished we went out of the shop. We turned left onto the A520 and back to the Crown Street. We walked back to the other end of the bus station and we met up with mum and her friend at the car. We got in the car and mum was waiting with sausage rolls and a can of Irn Bru for Matthew. We set off out of the car park 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 crossed the roundabout onto Barracks Road and past the bus station. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A52 and we veered left onto Shelton New Road. We joined the Southbound A500 and we ran through Shelton and Stoke. We came off the A500 and we turned left onto City Road. We ran up the hill into Fenton and we turned right onto Smithpool Road, We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his roon to watch TV and chill out. Matthew went up to his room to use his computer and watch buses. For tea Matthew had a chicken burger from kfc. He also had some fries and a cup of Coke. Once Matthew had finished his breakfast he chilled out in his room until it was time to go to the day centre. We saw First Potteries 63101 on a #11 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63101 in Fenton

Another vehicle seen was First Potteries 65041 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 65041 in Fenton

whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw ABC Supreme VU63 LGL.

ABC Supreme VU63 LGL in Fenton

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