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.

Trip to Stafford / Penkridge 02-04-2016

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67601	Blurton, adj Crowcrofts Road Grove	Hanford, adj Mayne Street	22	First Potteries
32080	Hanford, adj Mayne Street	Stafford, Chell Road (Stand B1)	101	First Potteries
2372	Stafford, Gaol Square	Parkside, adj Primary School	8	Arriva Midlands
2377	Parkside, adj Primary School	Moss Pit, opp School Lane	8	Arriva Midlands
2738	Moss Pit, adj School Lane	Penkridge, Adj Crown Bridge	76	Arriva Midlands
3756	Penkridge, Opp Crown Bridge	Stafford, Chell Road (Stand B1)	75	Arriva Midlands
65041	Stafford, Chell Road (Stand B1)	Stafford, Gaol Square	101	First Potteries
2296	Stafford, Gaol Square	Stafford, adj Radford bank Inn PH	2	Arriva Midlands
3701	Stafford, opp Radford bank Inn PH	Stafford, Guildhall Shopping Centre (Stand 2)	74	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Stafford. Matthew had been unwell on Thursday, and we decided to stay fairly local. As such we decided to catch a bus down to Stafford, and to get another ticket to cover the Arriva Buses once we got there. It would also be the first time we had visited Stafford since the Arriva Stafford garage became an outstation of Cannock. We checked the weather for today it was for a wet start with sunshine moving in from the South East. Matthew got up around 10:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. Around 11:40 we set off foot to the bus stop on Magdalen Road. It was still raining, so we decided to go to the bus stop on the A5035 by Crowcrofts Road. 11:52 came and went and the bus did not turn up. We saw required First Potteries 67601 on the #22 towards Longton. As time went on it looked likely that the bus had been delayed or had broken down. At least the following service was running on time! After waiting more than 30 minutes, required First Potteries 67601 came around the corner off Magdalen Road on the #22 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 67601 in Blurton

We got on the bus and we booked A Network First Day ticket at £5.20 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off along the A5035 and as the seats opposite were empty so Matthew took a picture inside First Potteries 67601.

Inside First Potteries 67601

We continued along the A5035 and we turned right onto New Inn Lane. We passed First Potteries 41514 on a Trentham bound #21 and we also overtook First Potteries 53063 which was stopped outside the man in Space on a #21A to Hanley. We turned right onto 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 67601 as it carried on towards Newcastle.

First Potteries 67601 Hanford

We crossed the lane that joins Church Lane to the A34 and we turned to see First Potteries 53064 again on the #21A towards Hanley.

First Potteries 53064 Hanford

We now had around a 15 minute wait for the next #101 to Stafford. Whilst we waited we saw P&M Coaches N559 SJF going Northwards up the A34.

P&M Coaches N559 SJF Hanford

The 15 minutes passed quickly and bang on time we saw an ALX400 double decker approaching on the other side of the A500. As it got closer we saw that it was dud First Potteries 32080.

First Potteries 32080 Hanford

We got on the bus and we flashed the Network First Day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside First Potteries 32080.

Inside First Potteries 32080

The bus set set off down the A34 and past Trentham Gardens. We went down the fast section of the A34 towards Tittensor and the bus put in a goo turn of speed. Just before the Darlaston Hill we went into the roadworks section and down to the George & Dragon and when we got to the double roundabout we turned left onto the B5027. We ran down into Stone and we joined the one-way system. The bus called at Granville Square and ran around the town clockwise along Radford Street & Christchurch Way. when we past The Star we saw an unidentified Parrott Motors minibus parked outside. We continued down the A520 and we crossed over the A34 towards Walton. We went around Stone Business Park and we saw an unidentified Routemaster in the Stafford Bus Centre. We went past Flip Out and we turned right back onto the A34. We then ran fast down the A34 for just over 5 miles. Past the Staffordshire Fire Service headquarters, past then end of Beaconside and Stafford Common and into the centre of town. At the large roundabout at the North end of the town centre we turned right onto Chell Road where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 32080 before it carried on around the town.

First Potteries 32080 in Stafford

It was now time to get some dinner. On the way we saw Arriva Midlands 2378 on a #9 service to Highfields

Arriva Midlands 2378 in Stafford

This was followed by Arriva Midlands 2289 on a #11A Stafford circular service.

Arriva Midlands 2289 in Stafford

We had already planned to visit Theo's Cafe on the corner of Mount Street. On the way we stopped at the toilet block and Matthew used the facilities. In the Cafe we ordered a breakfast and a can of Coke. After we had finished eating we headed back onto Chell Road. On the way we bumped into our ice cream man :). When we got onto Chell Road we decided to walk around to the Gaol Square bus station. On the way around we saw a procession of buses coming around the corner. The first bus we saw was required Arriva Midlands 2375.

Arriva Midlands 2375 in Stafford

We also saw D&G Buses 135 on a #15 to Market Drayton.

D&G 135 in Stafford

As we entered the bus station area we saw required First Potteries Scania 65041 on a #101 to Hanley. At the other end of the Gaol Square bus station the site of the new Morrison's supermarket were we saw required Arriva Midlands 2704 leaving on a #76 to Wolverhampton.

Arriva Midlands 2704 in Stafford

We saw required Arriva Midlands Dart 2372 come in on a #8 to Parkside.

Arriva Midlands 2372 in Stafford

We decided to do this bus so we waited for the driver change and we got on the bus. We booked a Midland Day Saver at £6.20 before we sat down towards the rear of the bus. Whilst we waited for the bus to depart we saw Arriva Midlands 3784 on a #5 to Telford and Arriva Midlands 2368 on a #12 to Doxey. When it was time to go the bus set off out of the bus station onto the A34. We traveled North past the junction for Eccleshall and further up we went West onto Holmcroft Road. We weaved our way through the estate to the west of the A34 and we saw Arriva Midlands 2292 on a #8 to Moss Pit. we went past the Co-operative food store before we re-joined the A34 further North from Crab Lane. We then we North to the next roundabout before we turned right onto Beaconside. Having gone past the first entrance to Parkside Avenue we turned into the second one. The bus in front became empty so Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 2372.

Inside Arriva Midlands 2372

As we went down Parkside we saw a cluster of shops, so we got up and got off the bus. Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 2372 before it carried on South towards Moss Pit.

Arriva Midlands 2372 in Parkside

There was a 15 minute frequency on the #8, so we decided to go over to the shops. In the convenience store at far end of the row, Matthew had brought a can of Coke and a small bottle of Coke & some Irn Bru. He also had a couple of chocolate bars. After we had paid we went back to the bus stop. Matthew ate a bag of Milky Stars and drank a small bottle of Cola. A few minutes later required Arriva Midlands 2377 appeared on the following #8 to Moss Pit.

Arriva Midlands 2377 in Parkside

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver to the driver and Matthew took a picture inside the empty Arriva Midlands 2377 before we sat down towards the back of the bus.

Inside Arriva Midlands 2377

The bus set off along Parkside Avenue and we rejoined Beaconside before we went South down the A34. We turned right onto Redhill and we traveled through the estate to the West of the A34. As we traveled through the estate we passed required Arriva Midlands 2373. We rejoined the A34 and we turned right onto Chell Road. Whilst we were stopped we saw Arriva Midlands 2291 on a #1 service and Arriva Midlands 2368 on a #825 to Lichfield as well as National Express West Midlands 852 on a #54 to Wolverhampton. 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 we saw Select Bus Services double decker 10 going North on the #878 to Staford. 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. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2377 as it stood ready to return to Parkside.

Arriva Midlands 2377 in Moss Pit

As we considered what we could do, we saw a bus stopped down the road heading our way. There was a break in the traffic so we went across the road to see what it was. It was a #76 service to Wolverhampton. As it got closer we saw that it was required Arriva Midlands 2738.

Arriva Midlands 2738 in Moss Pit

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 along Moss Pit the A449. 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. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2738 before it carried on towards Wolverhampton.

Arriva Midlands 2738 in Penkridge

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. Whilst we ate National Express West Midlands 854 made an appearance on the #54 to Stafford.

NX West Midlands 854 in Penkridge

A few minutes later we saw National Express West Midlands 852 on the Wolverhampton bound #54 to Wolverhampton.

NX West Midlands 852 in Penkridge

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 Arriva Midlands 3756.

Arriva Midlands 3756 in Penkridge

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 and we ran over the railway line to the Lichfield Road Gyrator roundabout. We came back up through town and past the railway station where we saw First Potteries 32080 again on a #101 to Hanley. We ran up to the windmill and we turned right into Broad Street and right again into Earl Street where we got up to get off the bus. the bus was now empty so Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 3756.

Inside Arriva Midlands 3756

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 First Potteries 65041 on a #101 to Hanley, and as we had a ticket we thought we might as well catch it around the town to Gaol Square.

First Potteries 65041 in Stafford

We got on the bus and we flashed the First Day ticket to the driver before we sat down near to the back of the bus. The bus went along Chell Road past the windmill and to the railway station. The bus topped there for a while, but because it's a circular around town it didn't empty. So Matthew took a picture of the empty seats across from us.

Inside First Potteries 65041

Once it was time the bus set off down through town to down to the Lichfield Road gyrator and we joined the A34 up to the next roundabout. We then turn bank into town and we ran up to Gaol Square via Eastgate Street and North Walls. When we got to the Square we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 65041.

First Potteries 65041 in Stafford

When we got to the bus station the service where starting to thin out. On stand was Arriva Midlands 2367 on a #9 to Higherfields.

Arriva Midlands 2367 in Stafford

We also saw Arriva Midlands 2296 on a #2 to Baswich & Wildwood.

Arriva Midlands 2296 in Stafford

The driver got off and had a short break and we saw an unidentified Moffat & Williamson coach going South down the A34. The driver got back on and we flashed the Arriva Midlands day Saver ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus left town vbia Chell Road and Earl Street and we went onto the Lichfield Road Gyrator before going down the A34 as we got close to the edge of town the driver realised that this service should of called at the railway station too, so he went back around via Riverway, the A518, the A34 Chell Road and back to the station. we didn't pick anyone up the, but we picked up a passenger by Newport Road that we would have missed. We went around the big roundabout and down the A34 and we passed Arriva Midlands 3900 on the #825, which we would have probably caught had we not done an extra lap around town! When we got to Radford Bank we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2296 as it carried on towards Baswich.

Arriva Midlands 2296 in Stafford

We crossed the road and almost immediately we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was dud ariva Midlands 3701 on a #74 to Stafford.

Arriva Midlands 3701 in Stafford

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Day Saver tickets to the driver for the final time today before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off up the A34 and into town past the railway station before turning in at broad Street and turning right onto Earl Street where we got up. Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 3701.

Inside Arriva Midlands 3701

Matthew used the toilet at the toilet block for the final time and we waited for mum to arrive. We had got back quicker than we thought we would so we had to wait. We walked along broad Street and onto Chell Road where we saw NX West Midlands 853 on a #54 to Wolverhanpton.

NX West Midlands 853 in Stafford

We then saw required Arriva Midlands 2155 on a #76 to Wolverhampton.

Arriva Midlands 2155 in Stafford

Mum arrived and we walked to the car park by Wilkinsons where she picked us up. Matthew had a couple of Wrights mini sausage rolls washed down with a small bottle of Irn Bru. We drove back along Chell Road and North up the A34. as we went North we passed First Potteries 65037 on a #101 to Stafford and we saw D&G 174 emerging from the side on a #14 service. At Trenthan Gardens we turned right onto the A5035. At the corner of Stanley Matthews Way we saw South Wales Transport minibus KX64 AAY parked up by the Hem Heath pub. Stoke had just drawn 2-2 with Swansea which would probably Account for the presence of that minibus. We followed First Potteries 41498 to longton Through Dresden, which had just finished a day on the #21/21A service. At Longton we went to Z Carz to see what was parked up there this evening. There were quite a few tonight. We saw Z Carz FP06 WTW.

Z Carz FP06 WTW in Longton

We also saw Z Carz Volkswagen minibus S973 OVP.

Z Carz S973 OVP in Longton

On the end of the row was Z Carz Ford Minibus NA06 SUO.

Z Carz NA06 SUO in Longton

Behind that was Z Carz Green Ford Minibus T418 WYJ.

Z Carz T418 WYJ in Longton

We turned into Willow Row to see what was in the compound this evening. At the front we saw Z Carz Ford minibus HK57 LGW.

Z Carz HK57 LGW in Longton

We got back onto the high level A50 and we crossed the A50 to go to Tesco to get some fuel. After we had done we got back onto the westbound A50 which we did up top Heron Cross, passing Scraggs coach 5437 VT going the other way. We traveled through Blurton along Blurton Road and forwards onto Church Road. We turned right into Beaconsfield Drive, getting home around 19:00. For a late tea we had bangers and mash with carrots followed by an egg custard. Matthew then chilled out on his computer until bedtime around 01:00... Mark

Trip to Cannock / Rugeley 23-01-2016

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
3718	Cannock BS	Hednesford BS	26	Arriva Midlands
2748	Hednesford BS	Cannock BS	19	Arriva Midlands
3740	Cannock BS	Penkridge, Opp Crown Bridge	75	Arriva Midlands
3721	Penkridge, Adj Crown Bridge	Cannock BS	75	Arriva Midlands
3702	Cannock BS	Rugeley BS	70	Arriva Midlands
2736	Rugeley BS	Cannock BS	70	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Cannock. We check the weather for the North West and Midlands, and it was for mild cloudy weather until around 17:00 when rain was due to move in from the West. We gave Matthew a choice of destination from the North West and Midlands and from the list Matthew chose Cannock Hi, thanks for this blog, i was having trouble finding out whether the 154 was national express west midlands or arriva, many thanks, cheers!. Matthew got up around 10:00 and had toast and strawberry juice. We set off a fraction before 12:00 and we went onto the A5035. We went over thr raiway line into Trentham and we conrinued down to the A34 where we went North. Turning left at Whitmore Road We then joined the A519 for a few hundred yards before going onto the South bound M6. Travelling down the M6 we saw several national Express coaches going Northwards... One of these was Selwyns YN10 FKP. We also saw a silver mini coach Passenger Plus+ with black and orange decals. We came off the M6 at the A5 and we went Eastwards to to Southern end of Cannock. We then we into town up the final Km or so along the A4601. At the top of the ringway we turned into the Multi-storey car park and we parked on the roof in one of the long stay spaces. Once we had parked up we went down to the shopping centre and Matthew used the toilet. We carried on through the shopping centre and we went to the The Copper Kettle cafe which overlooks the bus station. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a bottle of Coke. Whilst eating we saw required Arriva Midlands 3718 on the #25 Pye Green circular and national Express west Midlands 851 which was on the relatively new #154 service from Hednesford to Wolverhampton. We also saw plain white coach Happy Days Coaches H1 HDC arrive to pick up West Brom fans for their home match against Aston Villa. When we had finished eating we said goodbye to mum and we walked down to the bus station. As we entered the bus station we saw required Arriva Midlands 3721 on the #75 to Stafford and required Arriva Midlands 2748 on the #19 Cannock outer circular service.

Arriva Midlands 2748 in Cannock bus station

We also saw required Arriva Midlands 3718 now on the #26 Pye Green circular.

Arriva Midlands 3718 in Cannock bus station

We asked Matthew which of the buses he wanted to do and he chose Arriva Midlands 3718. We decided we were going to do this bus up to Hednesford. We got on the bus and we booked a Midlands Day Saver ticket for £6.20. We sat down towards the back of the bus and the bus set off out of town eastwards and onto the A4601. We traveled North Eastwards parallel to the railway line before we turned left onto Crab Lane. We turned right onto Moss Road before we joined the main road, turning right onto Cannock Road. We crossed the roundabout and we continued North for another few hundred yards before we turned right onto Market Street and then left into Victoria Street where we decided to get up an off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 3718.

Arriva Midlands 3718 in Hednesford bus station

We checked the timetable and we saw that there was a #19 service due in a few minutes followed by a #70 to Rugeley. Whilst we waited we saw National Express West Midlands 850 arriving on the #154 to Wolverhampton.

NX West Midlands 850 in Hednesford bus station

A few minutes later we saw required Arriva Midlands 2748 on the #19 outer Cannock circular.

Arriva Midlands 2748 in Hednesford bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands day Saver tickets to the driver before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down to the roundabout and we turned around and headed back up Victoria Street. We turned left onto Market Street and then right onto Anglesey Street. At the end we turned left onto Stafford lane and we went across the roundabouts over the A460. We carried on Hill Stree and we traveled South for a round a thousand yards before we turned left into Langholm Drive. We wound trough the estate up to Wimblebury and we came back South onto Hednesford Road down Bank Street. On Hednesford Road we took the second left and went down Gorsemoor Road. We turned right onto Meadow Way and we went North up to and into Tesco. After turning around in Tesco we went South down Heath Way and right onto the A5190. At the A460 we turned right and headed South. After a few hundred yards we turned left into the Orbital Retail Park. We whizzed around the park and we came back onto the A460 further South. We joined the main road Junction to the South East of town where we saw an engineering train on the railway above. We then headed bcak into town up the A34 and along the Ringway before coming into the bus station. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 2748.

Inside Arriva Midlands 2748

We had a bit of a walk around now to see what buses were about We saw Arriva Midlands 3308 on a #1 service to Walsall.

Arriva Midlands 3308 in Cannock bus station

Coming into the bus station running out of service we saw required Arriva Midlands 2741.

Arriva Midlands 2741 in Cannock bus station

A bus came and parked up outside the bus station in the layby for bus parking. It was required Social Travel Dart Social Travel Y338 FJN on layover between runs on the #74 to Stafford.

Social Travel Y338 FJN in Cannock bus station

A few minutes later we saw required Arriva Midlands 3740 arrive about to work the next #75 to Stafford.

Arriva Midlands 3740 in Cannock bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands Day Saver ticket to the driver. The bus was empty so Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 3740 before we sat down.

Inside Arriva Midlands 3740

We decided we were going to do the bus up to Penkridge. We set off out of the bus station and we traveled North up the A34. We went through Huntington and when we got to the edge of Cannock Chase we turned right onto Pottal Pool Road. We went West for a couple of miles and we crossed over the M6. We turned left into a housing estate and we went along Wolgarston Way. We turned right onto Vale Gardens and then forwards onto Filance Lane. We turned left into Francis Green Lane and the we paused for a few second to wait time. We then went left onto New Road and right onto Wolverhampton Road. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 3740 before it carried on towards Stafford.

Arriva Midlands 3740 in Penkridge

The bus back to Cannock was due in just a few minutes. We crossed the road and we tried the toilet which was locked. Almost immediately the bus turned up and it was required Arriva Midlands 3721.

Arriva Midlands 3721 in Penkridge

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. The bus set off Southwards down Wolverhampton Road and we turned left into New Road. We whizzed around the estate and back onto Cannock Road. We carried on straight onto Pottal Pool Road and we went right onto the A34. We headed South through Huntington and down into town. When we got into Cannock bus station we let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 3721.

Inside Arriva Midlands 3721

We were going to go to the toilet. On the way we stopped to photograph Select Bus Services Dart 1 which was on the #67 to Wolverhampton.

Select Bus Services 1 in Cannock bus station

We walked into the shopping centre and Matthew used the facilities. After we had finished we walked back into the bus station and we took a few pictures. We saw required Arriva Midlands 4201 come in on the #74 service and then go on layover.

Arriva Midlands 4201 in Cannock bus station

We also saw National Express West Midlands 853 on the #154 to Hednesford.

NX West Midlands 853 in Cannock bus station

A few minutes later we saw dud Arriva Midlands 3702 on the #70 to Rugeley.

Arriva Midlands 3702 in Cannock bus station

We decided to do this bus so we waited for the bus to start loading. 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. The bus set out of the bus station and went North out of town onto Brunswick Road. At the end of Brunswick Road we turned right onto Old Fallow Road. At the double roundabout we veered left onto Huntington Terrace Road at the end of the road we turned right onto Belt Street. We joined onto Cannock Road and we headed North up to Market Street. We turned left onto Victoria Street and we stopped briefly in the bus station area. We joined the Northbound A460 and we continued for around 5 miles before going into Queensway. We whizzed around a small estate and we came back out of Queensway before continuing up the A460 into town. At the main roundabout we went straight ahead into the bus station. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 3702.

Inside Arriva Midlands 3702

As we came into the bus station we noticed a minibus parked up. We got off the bus and we walked over to the minibus which was William's Coaches MX08 NCA.

William's Coaches MX08 NCA in Rugeley bus station

We decided to got to the toilet straight away. The tardis toilet was closed so we walked over to the Burger King/Subway across the road. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we purchased a couple of medium portions of fries from Burger King.We walked back across to the bus station and we sat down and ate the fries between the three of us. Afterwards we walked into the market and we purchased £1's worth of pick and mix from the sweet stall. Back outside we saw required Arriva Midlands 2745 on the R1 free Tesco bus service.

Arriva Midlands 2745 in Rugeley bus station

We decided to go back across the road and visit the petrol station to get a few supply to stock up the trip bag. Matthew had a can of Coke and and a bottle of Irn Bru as well as some chocolate. After we had paid for the things we crossed back over the road. Back in the bus station we saw Arriva Midlands 3757 on a #825 to Stafford.

Arriva Midlands 3757 in Rugeley bus station

A few minutes later the next #70 service to Wolverhampton cam into the bus station. It was required Arriva Midlands 2736.

Arriva Midlands 2736 in Rugeley bus station

We got on the bus and we flashed the Arriva Midlands day Saver tickets to the driver for the final time today. The bus sat in the bus station awaiting time. When it was time we set off out of the bus station and straight onto the A460. We turned left onto Queensway and we and we whizzed around the estate before returning onto the A460. We traveled South for 5 miles and we entered to up Victoria Street. We passed through the bus station and we joined the Southbound Cannock Road. At the roundabout we turned right onto Belt Street. We turned left onto Huntington Terrace Road. At the double roundabout we veered right onto Old Farrow Road and we turned left onto Brunswick Road. We came into town and we entered the bus station. The bus emptied and Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 2736.

Inside Arriva Midlands 2736

When we got back into the bus station mum was waiting for us. We walked through the shopping centre and matthew visited the toilets. We went down the escalator and out of the shopping centre and across to the stairs for the car park. We climbed the stairs and mum was waiting for us as she had taken the lift. Once we got out of the car we drove out of the the car park and we went West on the Ringway. At the roundabout we did a 180' and went back East on the Ringway and the we went down the A34. As we did the #19 earlier in the day we had seen a Sainsbury petrol station selling diesel at 97.7p. At the big roundabout we went North up the A460 and into the Orbital Retail Park and we stopped for some Diesel. Once we had toppd up we went back to the big roundabout and we joined the Westbound A460. We traveled West for a couple of miles before joining the Northbound M6. It was now raining quite hard and we drove up to junction 15 of the M6 before taking the Northbound A500. At Sideway we went East on the A50 up to Longton, where we came off to check out what was at Z Carz this evening. In the first row we saw Z Carz X599 WDY

Z Carz X599 WDY in Longton

Next to this was Z Carz green Ford minibus T418 WYJ.

Z Carz T418 WYJ in Longton

At the near end of the first row was Z Carz minibus BU04 GYW

Z Carz BU04 GYW in Longton

Closest minibus in the second row was Z Carz FP06 WTW.

Z Carz FP06 WTW in Longton

At the back of the site we saw Z Carz Mercedes minibus M372 NWN.

Z Carz M372 NWN in Longton

We turned left into Willow Row to see what was parked up in the compound. At the front of the compound we saw Z Carz YJ53 WPD.

Z Carz YJ53 WPD in Longton

Also in the compound was Z Carz Y569 DSF.

Z Carz Y569 DSF in Longton

We rejoined the A50 and we went West to Heron Cross where we left the A50 and we went onto Blurton Road. We traveled up through Blurton and forwards onto Church Road before turning right into Beaconsfield Drive. We got home around 18:20. For a late tea Matthew had bangers and mash with carrots followed by jam filled shortbread biscuit. Matthew then chilled out until bedtime around 01:00... Mark