Trip to Hanley / Trentham 25-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67142	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Hanley BS	23	First Potteries
35941	Hanley BS	Trentham Gardens	101	First Potteries
521	Trentham, Poachers Cottage PH	Hanley BS	100	D&G Bus
67141	Hanley BS	Bentilee, Tyson Green	11	First Potteries
44511	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Stoke, stop Q	11	First Potteries
44511	Stoke, adj stop M	Fenton, Smithpool Road	11	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the dentist and we saw Roseville BV60 BAA. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Newcastle. At the Afford garage we saw Afford rent-a-car CN68 JXE parked up. We continued to the stop outside the flats and we waited for a bus to Newcastle. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67142 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67142 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we joined the A52 and ran under the railway line. After crossing over the A500 we ran into Stoke town centre along Church Street. We turned right onto Shelton Old Road. We ran forwards onto Stoke Road. 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 waited for a bus back towards Fenton. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35941 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 35941 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus bus and we booked to Stafford before We sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off through the bus station. and onto John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and left onto Broad Street. We ran down the hill and over the ring road onto Snow Hill Before we turned right onto Shelton New Road. We ran down through Etruria an up into Hartshill before joining the A52. We ran into Newcastle down George Street. We joined the one way system and we turned left on the roundabout onto Barracks Road. As we got to the bus station onto Barracks Road. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we ran down through Trent Vale and into Hanford. We continued down through to Trentham and when we got opposite to the old Trentham Gardens entrance we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed the road and we entered the gardens opposite to the A5035. We went into the actual gardens and we walked anti-clockwise around the lake. We walked to the Tea Room and we stopped for dinner. Matthew had a burger and fries washed down with a glass of Coke. Once we had finished eating we walked back through the main gate and onto the A34 opposite the A5035. We turned left and walked along the A34 to the old Gardens entrance where the bus stop is situated. We waited for a bus back towards Hanley. A few minutes later we saw First Potteries 35932 on a #101 to Hanley. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 521 on a #100 to Hanley.

D&G Bus 521 in Trentham

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down. We set off Northwards up through Hanford along the A34 and we got to the Northbound A500. The A50 appeared to be busy so we carried onto the Stoke and we turned right onto Church Street and under the railway line. We followed the A52 and we ran past the railway station to joiners Square. We turned left onto Lichfield Street and we turned left onto the ring road and we turned right onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street and into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Afterwards we waited for a bus towards Fenton. The bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67141 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 67141 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Bentilee before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We 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. we turned right onto Dividy Road. We turned left onto Beverley Drive and right onto Dawlish Drive. We got up and got off. We walked down Dawlish Drive and we got in a City Cabs taxi and we set off along onto Dawlish Drive. We turned left onto Beverley Drive and we turned right onto Malthouse Road. We turned right onto Wooliscroft Road and left onto Corneville Road. We turned right onto Ruxley Road and right onto the A52 and and we turned left onto Eaves Lane. We turned left onto Greasley Road and continued onto Greasley Road. Before we joined the A5009 and we ran past the Cemetery to Milton and we turned left onto Millrise Road and we ran forwards onto Maunders Road and we crossed over the old railway line. We turned right onto Newford Crescent and left onto the A53. We turned into the retail park. We headed through Cobridge and we ran past the site of the new Wrights Pies shop. At the lights we turned left onto Waterloo Road. We ran down to the ring Road and then we ran around Hanley before going onto Lichfield Street. We ran down to Joiners Square and we continued onto Victoria Road. We ran up to the top and we turned sharp right onto City Road. We ran down to Smithpool Road and we turned left. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and chilled out in his room to use his computer and watch buses. We went downstairs and we set off onto City Road and we saw First Potteries 63347 on a #11 to Hanley. We waited for a bus to Stoke. We continued to the stop outside the flats and we waited for a bus to Newcastle. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was First Potteries 44511 on a #11 to Newcastle. We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street. We got off the bus and we crossed over Church Street and we walked around the corner onto Campbell Place and we walked up to Sainsbury's. Matthew brought a valentine's day card in Sainsbury's and afterwards we walked back along Campbell Place and we turned right onto Church Street. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw that it was First Potteries 44511 on a #11 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off onto Church Street out of Stoke and over the A500. We ran under the railway line and we continued onto City Road. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. We walked 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 Etruria / Wolstanton 24-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
BG61 KTK	Fenton	Westbury Park	Charter	Travel Express
BG61 KTK	Westbury Park	Fenton	Charter	Travel Express

Today Matthew was going out for dinner and going to do his weekly shop. Later on he was returnming to the residential unit. Matthew got up around 10:20 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. After getting ready we went to pick up uncle Dave. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned right onto Finstock Avenue and right onto Emsworth Road. We returned to the house to check the door was locked and afterwards we ran through Blurton and onto Finstock Avenue. We turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road past the former Coral shop which is new going to be flats. We ran through Blurton and into Heron Cross and over the A50. At Heron Cross lights we turned left onto Grove Road. We ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. Once we had picked up uncle Dave, we continued down Wheildon Road and we joined the Northbound A500. We came off the A500 at Shelton New Road and we turned right as if we were going to re-join the Siouthbound A500. We turned right onto Garner Street and we stopped near to the food truck. For dinner Matthew had a cumberland ring with bacon and egg on a bap, washed down with a can of Coke. Whilst we ate we saw Travel Express YN11 AHJ go past. When we had finished we got back into the car and we set off along Garner Street. We joined the Eastbound A53 and we saw First Potteries 63179 on a #4A to Hanley. We turned left onto Forge Lane and we turned left onto Shelton Boulevard. We crossed over the railway line on the new Etruria Valley Link Road and we ran under the A500 and turned left into the retail park. We parked up near to Asda and we saw maroon minibus BT60 XZA. We went into Asda and Matthew used the toilet. Afterwards we went around and picked up his weekly shopping. When we had finished we went to the till and we paid for the shopping. We went back to the car and we set off out of the retail park. We joined the Southbound A500 and we ran through Stoke to Sideway. We joined the Eastbound A50 and we came off by the BET365 statdium and headed Southwards down Stanley Matthews Way. We turned left onto the A5035 and we got back to Blurton around 13:40. We chilled out at Blurton and we did some of the BLog. Matthew had a can of Irn Bru. Later on we returmed to the residential unit. We got in the car and we set off therough Blurton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive and we saw First Potteries 63111 on a #22 to Newcastle. We turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road past the former Coral betting shop. We went through the traffic lights onto Heron Steeet. We carried on forwards onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned left onto Masterson Street and we saw Stafford & District Community Link RX72 EAC. We turned right onto Watkin Street and we continued onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room and we put all his shopping in his cupboard or in the kitchen. Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke. Matthew chilled out on his computer and watched buses out of the window. we saw black minibus ONZ 1340.

ONZ 1340 in Fenton

For tea Matthew had shepperds pie followed by a cake bar. After a few minutes we saw First Potteries 67148 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 67148 in Fenton

Matthew then went out to catch a bus to Westbury Park. We went downstairs and we saw it was Travel Express BG61 KTK. We got on the bus and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we crossed over City Road. We ran down the into Stoke and we went under the railway line. We crossed over the the A500 and we turned left onto Southbound A500. We ran past Sideway to Hanford. We turned right onto the A519 and we turned left onto Westbury Road and to the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and then had a a glass of Coke. After we had finished in the pub we returned to Fenton in Travel Express BG61 KTK. We set off onto Westbury Road and we turned right to run anti-clockwide around the estate. We turned right onto Wye Road and we crossed over Seabridge Lane and we turned left onto the Northbound A519. We ran into Newcastle and we went around the roundabout onto Barracks Road and past the bus station. We crossed the Jubilee Roundabout onto the A53 and we ran through Basford to Etruria. We got onto the Southbound A500 at Stoke. We turned left onto City Road and we went under the raileay line and up into Fenton. We continued up City Road before turning right onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room and chilled out in his room and use his computer and watch buses out of the window. Matthew also drank a can of Cherry Coke. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Leicester / Loughborough 22-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
4566	Leicester, (Stop CM)	Leicester, St Margarets BS	84	Arriva Midlands
4432	Leicester, St Margarets BS	Quorn, Quorndon Fox	127	Arriva Midlands
4554	Quorn, Quorndon Fox	Loughborough, stop FA	127	Arriva Midlands
4760	Loughborough, stop FA	Shepshed, Bullring	127	Arriva Midlands
3106	Shepshed, Bullring	Loughborough, (Stand LB)	16	Arriva Midlands
4434	Loughborough, (Stand LB)	Leicester, St Margarets BS	127	Arriva Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Leicester. In the week Matthew had suggested nthat we go to Loughborough, to which I said it might be better to go to Leicester and travel up son that there would be more for mum to do whilst we were on the bus. Matthew agreed to this. Research consisted of looking at the weather which was for dry weather with some sunshine. We also looked at the Arriva tickets that we could buy. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. We got up at 10:20 and Matthew had toast and orange juice for breakfast. After getting dressed we set off around 11:50 to pick up uncle Dave. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned right onto Finstock Avenue and right onto Emsworth Road. We returned to the house to check the door was locked and afterwards we ran through Blurton and onto Finstock Avenue. We turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road and at the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road past the former Coral shop which is new going to be flats. We ran through Blurton and into Heron Cross and over the A50. At Heron Cross lights we turned left onto Grove Road. We ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we picked up uncle Dave. Once we had picked up uncle Dave, we continued back up Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and at the roundabout we joined the Eastbound A50. We ran through Longton and Meir. We turned right to continued along the Blythe Bridge bypass and we were passed by SAS BT 15 NLE. We went near to uttoxeter and we continued along the A50 for a few more miles. Passing former EWS locomotive 60078 on the back of a Reids Truck parked up in a holding area. We came off the A50 and we and we headed towards Hatton on the A511. We deciedd to try something new today. We stopped at a cafe called Rascals for dinner. It was quite warm and sunny so we sat outside on a bench. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a bottle of Coke. He also used the toilet which was in a barn. When we had finished we headed back along the A511 and we re-joined the A50. We continued Eastwards for a few miles before joining the Southbound M1. Whilst travelling down the M1 we saw Skills (NX) BV73 ZTT(#450), white coach BK15 AJU, blue minibus YR60 LHM, an unidentified RML Routemaster and Travel Xpress RE22 ETT. We came off the motorway onto the A50 and we headed through Groby into Leicester the last 7 or so miles. We turned left onto Blackbird Way. We followed the road around onto St Margarets Way and we turned left onto Burleys Way. We turned we did the flyover and we ran onto St Matthews Way. We turned left onto Humberstone Road and we did a u turn just after the railway bridge. We went back along St Matthews Way and we turned left onto Gelgrave Gate. We ran forwards onto Haymarket and we we went into the car park. After we had parked up we said goodbye to mum and we went down the stairs into the shopping centre. We came out onto Charles Street and we headed into the bus station. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we ha a walk around to see what we could see. In the bus station was First Leicester 63567 on a #88 to Eyres Monsell.

First Leicester 63567 in Leicester bus station

We continued down Charles Street to see what was in the bus station. As we walked down Charles Street we saw First Leicester 36615 on a #54 to the Beaumont Leys Centre.

First Leicester 36615 in Leicester bus station

At the other end of the bus station we saw First Leicester 63550 on a #38A Nether Hall circular.

First Leicester 63550 in Leicester bus station

We planned to catch a bus from Charles Street down to the St Margarets bus station. Walking back up Charles Street we saw Centebus 775 on a #20 to Blackmore Drive.

Centebus 775 in Leicester bus station

As we walked up Charles Street we could see a #84 service at the bus stop. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4566 on a #84 to St Margaret's bus station.

Arriva Midlands 4566 in Leicester

We got on the bus and we booked Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo at £12.50 before we went upstairs and we sat down. The bus set off along Charles Street and we ran through the bus station. We ran forwards onto Abbey Street and we entered the bus station from the South Eastern corner. We pulled onto the stand and we got up and got off the bus. We looked at the departure board and we saw there was a departure in 3 minutes from stand SC at the other end of the bus station. We had a brisk walk and we spotted the bus on stand. As we approached the stand we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4432 on a #127 to Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4432 in Leicester bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Gravel Street. We turned right on Abbey Street and left onto Belgrave Gate. We crossed over the ring road and we headed North Eastwards up the A607. We started to go along the Golden Mile before we turned left onto Loughborough Road. We ran Northwards for just under a mile and we crossed over the A563 and joined the Northbound A6. We ran through Birstall where we saw West Yorkshire Travel BX14 OMP. We continued past the park and ride site and we crossed over the A46. We turned left towards a housing estate and we tured right onto Loughborough Road. We ran Northwards into Rothley and we turned left onto Helifields Lane. The road turned leftwards to head North and we ran forwards onto North Street. We continued Northwards onto Mountsorrel Lane and we continued onto Rothley Road. We turned right onto The Green and at the roundabout we turned left onto. Loughborough Road. We passed the Buttermarket we reached the Southernmost point that we reached on out trip to Loughborough back in January 2022. We continued Northwards out of Market Place and we ran Northwards through Quorn. We decided to get off and go to a pub so we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 4432 before it continued Northwards towards Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4432 in Quorn

Once the bus had departed we headed into the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we had a small bottle of Coke with some ice in a glass, When we had finished our drinks we headed out to the bus stop and met up with uncle Dave. Whilst we waited for the bus we saw Arriva Midlands 4400 on a #127 to Leicester. A short time later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4554 on a #127 to Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4554 in Quorn

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus set off up the Northbound A6 and we headed into the centre of Loughborough. We ran forwards onto High Street and we turned right into Baxter Gate. After a brief stop we set off along Baxter Gate and we rejoined the Northbound A6. We ran around town to Tesco and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 4554 which sat at the bus stop for a few minutes awaiting time.

Arriva Midlands 4554 in Loughborough

We headed up the step and we spotted a cafe. Matthew had a slice of red velvet cake washed down with a bottle of Coke. When we had finished eating Matthew went to the toilet. We met up with uncle Dave and we went back down the step to the bus stop. We didn't have to wait long before the bus appeared. As it approached the stop we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4760 on a #127 to Shepshed.

Arriva Midlands 4760 in Loughborough

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. After a short wait for time, the bus set off along the A6 and we turned left onto The Rushes and right onto Derby Square. We ran forwads onto the A512 and we ran out of town. We turned right onto the Northbound A6004. We turned left onto Alan Moss Road and right onto Garendon Road. We turned right onto Garendon Gardens and we ran forwards onto Blackbrook Road. We turned right onto Schofield Road and left onto Old Ashby Road. We ran to the end and we joined the Westbound A512. We crossed over the M1 and we continued Westwards. We turned right onto Leicester Road and we ran into Shepshed. We went forwards onto Kirkhill and onto the roundabout in the centre of town where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 4760 before it returned on a #127 to Leicester.

Arriva Midlands 4760 in Shepshed

We set off on foot onto Queen Street and we cut through the Co-op car park onto Hall Croft. We visited the Hall Croft Tap and we had a glass of Coke. After we had finished our drinks Matthew used the toilet. We walked back along Hall Croft and we cut through the Co-op car park onto Queen Street. We sat in the space behind the bus stop and Matthew chose and ate a Milky Way. Whilst we waited for the bus Matthew made friends with the resident Shepshed Bullring cat. A short time later we saw Arriva Midlands 4437 arrive on a #127 service and go out of service.

Arriva Midlands 4437 in Shepshed

We chattd to one of the locals and we realised that we could do the #16 to Loughborough and get on the following #127 service. We waited for the bus to appear. As short time later we saw the bus approaching. We saw it was Arriva Midlands 3106 on a #16 to Loughborough.

Arriva Midlands 3106 in Shepshed

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. After a short wait for time, the bus set off onto Kirkhill, and we ran forwards onto Leicester Road. We turned left onto the A512 and we crossed over the M1. We continued along the A512. When we stopped at bus stops the engine shut down. We ran inti the West end of Loughborough and we turned left onto Greenclose Lane. We turned left onto The Rushes and we turned righ onto the A6. We ran around the East side of the town past Tesco and when we got to next stop we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we saw Kinchbus 128 on a Skylink service to the Airport.

Kinchbus 128 in Loughborough

A few minutes later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 4434 on a #127 to Leicester.

Arriva Midlands 4434 in Loughborough

We got on the bus and we placed the Arriva East Midlands Day Saver Duo on the scanner for what turned out to be the fianl time today before we went upstairs and sat down. After a brief stop we continued Left onto Leicester Road. We ran Southwards out of town and we crossed over the Great Central Railway. We ran forwards onto Loughborough Road and we ran a further 1/2 mile or so into the centre of Quorn. We Continued Southwards out of the centre of Quorn and we headed down into Mountsorrel. We turne right onto The Green and we stopped behind the library before continuing onto Rothley Road. We continued onto Moutsorrel Lane and into Rothley. We followed the road to the left onto Halifields Lane and we continued onto Cossington Lane. WE joined the Southbound A46 and after crossing the A46 we ran past the park and ride site through Birstall. We tookm a diversionary route down the A6 and we passed the First Leicester depot. We turned left onto the B5327 and past Abbey Park before turning right onto the A607. We crossed the roundabout onto Belgrave Gate and we turmed right onto Abbey Street before entering the St Margaret's Bus Station from the South Eastern corner. We pulled into a stand and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we had a walk around. Matthew visited the toilet and we walked around the outside of the bus station as there wasn't a bus back to Charles Street for a long time we decided to walk. We walked down to the South West corner and we saw Woods Coaches BX65 WBD on a National Express #230 sercvice to Derby.

Woods Coaches BX65 WBD in Leicester bus station

We did a lap around the bus station and as we got to the junction of Abbey Street and Gravel Street we saw Stagecoach Midlands 26204 on a #148 to Coventry.

Stagecoach Midlands 26204 in Leicester bus station

We walked along Abbey Street and we turned right onto Belgrave Gate. We continued onto Charles Street and past the Haymarket Bus Station. A the Southern end we saw First Leicester 63563 on layover in between runs on the #16 to the General Hospital.

First Leicester 63563 in Leicester bus station

We walked to the entrance of the shopping centre but the door was closed! We turned right onto Humberstone Gate and right onto Haymarket. There was an entrance by the theatre, but you needed the ticket or had to declare your ticket lost, which I did not want to do. We ended up walking up the ramp to get back into the car park. We walked to where the car was but mum had moved it to by one the pay stations. After paying for parking we set off out of the car park onto Haymarket. We ran forwards onto Belgrave Gate and we turned left onto Burleys Way. We turned right onto the A50 and we ran through Frog Island. We spotted a chip shop on the A50 so we turned left onto Dunton Street and turned around. THe chip shop was closed so we looked up directions to another one. We continued onto the A50 and we did a u turned and turned left onto Buckminster Road. We stopped at Bucks Chip shop and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Irn Bru. It created a bit of a stir in the chip shop when I paid, becasue un beknown to me I paid with a couple of the new Charles III £10 notes! We ate the chips in the car and when we were ready we set off onto Buckminster Road. We turned left onto Medina Road and we turned right to re-join the A50. We ran North through Groby and we re-joined the Northbound M1. We came off the M1 and junction and we headed Westwards along the A50. As we travelled along the A50 we saw an unidentified Ausden Clark double decker coach, blue minibus SJ59 UAN, an unidentified Diamond Bus on a #401 to Burton and silver minibus YX09 HFK. We came off the A50 and we turned right onto Blurton Road. at the traffic lights we turned left Grove Road. We ran ran forwards onto Wheildon Road and we stopped at uncle Dave's. Matthew went in as he was desperate for the toilet. He also updated uncle Dave's calendar with the details of today's trip. Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke. We said goodbye to uncle Dave and we set off back to Blurton. We set off onto Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton and we turned right onto Church Road. We turned right onto the A5035 and we got back to Blurton around 21:10. Matthew chilled out on his computer and we did some of the Blog. We also wrote a few emails and generally used the computer to entertain ourselves. We watched TV and Matthew got ready for bed. Matthew settled down around 00:30... Mark

Trip to Hanley / Newcastle 21-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67146	Hanley BS	Fenton, Victoria Place	6	First Potteries
67175	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	11	First Potteries
35946	Newcastle BS	Newcastle, o/s The Cherry Tree PH	25	First Potteries

Today Matthew was going to Blurton, but first he was going out on the bus and afterwards going to Grandma's. Matthew g ot up at 08:00 and had his medication. For breakfast Matthew had toast and cranberry juice. Later on Matthew went out. We went downstairs and we cut through onto City Road. On the way down City Road we saw Afford rent-a-car DL21 NVR parked up at the garage.

Afford rent-a-car DL21 NVR in Fenton

We waited for a Lucky Seven taxi and we went to Shelton. We got in the taxi and we set off down City Road. We ran down the hill into Stoke and we turned right onto the A52. We ran past the end of Station Road which is currently partially closed for work on the new bus gate installation. We continued along the A52 and we turned left onto Cauldon Road. We turned right onto Boughey Road and we stopped outside of the park. We cut through the park and we crossed over the canal and we went to the play area. After spending time in the play area Matthew went out of the park onto Cleveland Street. We continued onto Regent Road and we turned left onto Hinde Street and we saw First Potteries 33693 on layover. Also seen was First Potteries 33696 on layover. Another vehicle seen was First Potteries 33700 on layover. Afterwards we saw First Potteries 35938 parked up on layover. We walked back to Regent Road and we continued to the end onto Lichfield Street. We crossed over and went to the chip shop. matyew had sauasge chips and gravy washd down with a can of Coke. When we had finished eatjing we set off across the ring road and up Lichfield Street. We went forwards onto Tontine Street and across Tontine Square to Primark. Matthew did some clothes shopping and afterwards we walked across Tontine Square onto Tontine Street. We went forwards onto Lichfield Street and back to the bus station. We waited for a bus back to Fenton. A short time later we saw a bus come onto the stand. We saw kt was First Potteries 67146 on a #6 to Parkhall.

First Potteries 67146 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We turned left onto the ring road and we turned right onto Lichfield Street and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout onto Victoria Road. and we ran up the hill into Fenton. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off on foot up Victoria Road and we went sharp right onto City Road. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and back to his room. Matthew used his computer and watched television in his room. Around 15:00 I came to pick Matthew up. Matthew came downstairs and we set off onto City Road. We walked to the bus stop by the flats.. I asked Matthew if he wanted to do First Bus. Whilst we waited we saw D&G Bus 23 on a #1A to Wood Lane.

D&G Bus 23 in Fenton

Alos seen was First Potteries 67147 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67147 in Fenton

A short time later we saw our bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67175 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 67175 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street. After a brief stop in Stoke we continued along church Street and forwards onto Hartshill Road. We ran up the hill and into Hartshill. We ran forwards onto George Street and we ran down the hill into Newcastle. We turned left at the roundabout onto Barracks Road and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We walked to the bottom of the bus station to wait for something towards Grandma's house. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35946 on a #25 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35946 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to the hospital before we went upstairs and sitting down. We set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we got up and got off the bus by the Cherry Tree. We got off the bus and Matthew took a picture of First Potteries 35946 as it continued towards Hanley.

First Potteries 35946 in Newcastle

Once off the bus we headed along the A34 and we went up the hill towards Grandma's. At Grandma's Matthew had toast and a can of Irn Bru and used her computer. When it was time to go we went to the pub in the car via uncle Daves house. We set off just after 17:30 and we set off onto Victoria Street. We joined the Southbound A34 and we turned left onto The Avenue. At the end we turned right onto Hartshill Road. We ran down to Stoke and onto the one way system. We turned right onto Elenora Street and we followed the road around onto Copeland Street. We ran forwards onto Glebe Street and we followed the one way system onto Church Street. We crossed over the A500. We turned right onto the A500. We veered left into Fenton to pick up uncle Dave. We set off back down towards Stoke and onto the A500. We turned left onto Church Street and and we went around the one-way system. We turned left onto London Road and we headed into the West End, and we ran past the former Oak Tree pub which has now been demolished. We ran to the end of London Road and we sat at the light waiting to turn right onto the A34. We continued up to the pub and we parked up. We walked into the pub and Matthew had a brunch with oatcakes followed by toffee sponge pudding with ice cream. Whilst we ate highlights of the passing buses included First Potteries 67144 on a #101 to Stafford and Stanton's of Stoke 82 HBC. Once we had finished eating we set off. We carried on along the A34. We turned left onto London Road and we ran through Oak Hill and the the West End before running into Stoke Town centre and Campbell Place and onto the one way system. We followed the one-way system to the left onto Church Street. We ran up Hartshill Road into Hartshill and I stopped at work to drop off some keys. When returned back down to Stoke and onto the one way system. We turned left onto Shelton Old Road and we saw Travel Express LG68 PSZ paeked up th the depot. We joined the Southbound A500 at Sideway and onto the Eastbound A50. On the A50 we saw a couple of Edinburgh Coach Hire coaches as we as white coach GL16 PUL. We came off the A50 onto Stanley Matthews Way and we turned left onto the A5035 and we came back to Blurton. In them afternoon we chilled out writing the Blog. Matthew had a can of Irn Bru. Later on we took uncle Dave home. We got in the car and we set off through Burton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive. We turned left onto Church Street and left onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We ran through Blurton and at the roundabout we veered right onto Church Street. We turned right onto the A5035 and back to Blurton. Later on we did some more of the Blog and had a Twister lolly. We chilled out on the sofa until bedtime around 00:00... Mark

Trip to Hanley / Kidsgrove 20-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67151	Fenton, Lordship Lane	Hanley BS	6	First Potteries
67143	Hanley BS	Kidsgrove, Queen Street	7	First Potteries
63115	Kidsgrove, Town Hall	Hanley BS	3	First Potteries
63250	Hanley BS	Fenton, Victoria Place	6	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus. He was also going to visit uncle Dave later on. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw First Potteries 65728 on a #11 to Newcastle. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto City Road and we saw Afford rent-a-car DS71 NCY outside there yard. We crossed over the old Leek railway line and we turned right onto the private road on which the baths are situated By the baths we saw Copeland's Tours MIB 992. We continued onto Victoria Road and we saw First Potteries 44514 on a #6A to Blythe Bridge. As it got closer we saw that it was dud First Potteries 67151 on a #6 to Hanley. 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 and 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 Matthew got a picture of First Potteries 67151 before it returned towards Leek.

First Potteries 67151 in Hanley bus station

Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards Matthew visited the shop and brought a bottle of Coke and a toffee Crisp. We waited for a bus to Kidsgrove. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67143 on a #7 to Kidsgrove.

First Potteries 67143 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Kidsgrove before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and we ran down John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and we crossed Broad street onto Marsh Street. We turned right onto Trinity Street and we stopped on Stafford Street to to pick up more passengers before we left town along Quadrant Road. We crossed over the ring road and we headed out of town towards Sneyd Green along Town Road and we continued to Smallthorne roundabouts and we continued forwards onto High Lane. At the end of High Lane the end we turned left onto the A527 where we saw Lucky Seven YC20 EBL. We turned right onto Turnhurst Road and we ran up to Packmoor. We continues into Newchapel and onto the High Street. We turned left onto Pennyfields Roads and at the roundabout we went onto Newchapel Road. We ran through the estate via Galleys bank and we ran into Kidsgrove and the bus terminated on King Street where we got up and got off the bus. We continued along Market Street and we went to Dougie Mac charity shop. Matthew brought a can of Coke and a couple of chocolate bars. When we had finished we went out and Matthew decided he needed the toilet. There was a pub next door so we visited the pub. Matthew used the toilet and then we brought a glass of Coke. After Matthew had finished his drink we went outside to wait for the next bus back to Hanley. We walked back onto Market Street and we turned left onto Attwood Street and we turned left onto Liverpool Road and up to the bus stop. We crossed over the road and we saw DHR Coaches HV70 LXK.

DHR Coaches HV70 LXK in Kidsgrove

After a short time we saw First Potteries 63178 on a #4A to Butt Lane.

First Potteries 63178 in Kidsgrove

Whilst we waited we saw D&G Bus 115 on a #95 to Biddulph.

D&G Bus 115 in Kidsgrove

A short time later the bus appeared. It was First Potteries 63115 on a #3A to Hanley.

First Potteries 63115 in Kidsgrove

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down. We set off along the A50. We ran up the hill into Goldenhill and then forwards through Sandyford past the new retail park into Tunstall. We ran down the High Street. We continued down the High Street and we ran past the former Co-operative bank. We turned left onto Williamson Street. At the roundabout we turned right onto Scotia Road and past the the old bus garage before running up the hill into Burslem Town centre. We ran through the light onto Waterloo Road and up the hill into Cobridge. We ran down the hill towards Hanley and then up into town along Hope Street and Stafford Street. We turned right at the end past the town hall and onto Bagnall Street before entering the bus station where we got up got off. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards waited for a bus back to Fenton. A short time later the bus appeared. We saw it was First Potteries 63250 on a #6 to Coalville.

First Potteries 63250 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We turned left onto the ring road and we turned right onto Lichfield Street and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout onto Victoria Road. and we ran up the hill into Fenton. At the top of the hill we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we set off on foot up Victoria Road and we went sharp right onto City Road. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and we turned right onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs and back to his room. Matthew used his computer and watched television in his room. We went downstairs and we set off We walked onto Temple Street and left onto Christchurch Street. We onto City Road and we stopped at the Doctor. After seeing the doactor Matthew returned to the residential unit. We set off along City Road and we cut through onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew chilled out in his room. 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. For tea Matthew had chicken potatoes and carrots with gravy followed by a slice of toffee cheesecake. Later on he had a drink of Fanta orange and a few digestive biscuits. 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 Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Temple Street the Queen Elizabeth II Court. We continued back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and watch buses out of the window. He also ate the a can of Irn Bru and a golden crunch creams. 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 Newcastle / Blurton 19-06-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
112	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	1A	D&G Bus
63116	Newcastle BS	Hanley BS	4	First Potteries
67180	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	11	First Potteries
35945	Newcastle BS	Stoke, Lytton Street	25	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to Belper he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to Belper and we saw First Potteries 67181 on a #11 to Hanley. After tea Matthew went for a walk to Aldi to get some shopping. We set off onto City Road and we crossed over and onto Manor Street. At the end of manor Street we turned left onto Victoria Road and we went down the hill to Aldi. Matthew brought his shopping and then we got a lucky Seven taxi back to the residential unit. We set off onto Victoria Road and we turned onto Manor Street. We turned right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street past the new building under construction and back to the residential unit. Matthew went back upstairs to his room to wait for us to come and pick him up. He watched buses out of the window. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Newcastle. As it got closer we saw that it was D&G Bus 112 on a #1A to Wood Lane.

D&G Bus 112 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre. We continued along Church Street onto Hartshill Road and into the centre of Hartshill. We turned left into the Avenue and left again onto Hilton Road before turning right into the City General Hospital. hospital. As we travelled through the hospital we saw ABC Supreme YA67 VBB. Once through the hospital we turned right onto the A34 and we ran into Newcastle. We crossed the roundabout and we ran up Barracks Road and into the bus station from the South end. Once we got to the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Once we got off the bus. We walked out of the bus station onto Castle Walk and up onto Ironmarket and we went to Queens Gardens where Matthew had a chicken sandwich washed down with can of Irn Bru. Once we had finished the drink we set off onto Ironmarket and right onto Castle Walk. Matthew went to the toilet. We continued onwards to the bus station and we saw First Potteries 63364 on a #11 to Hanley. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63116 on a #4 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63116 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down near to the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto Barracks Road. We crossed the Jubilee Roundabout and onto the A53. We ran into Basford and over the A500. We ran down into Etruria and over the A500. We continued along the A53 and we turned left onto Forge Lane. We ran out along the Lane and we crossed over the canal before we returned back into Etruria along festival Way. We crossed under the A53 onto Etruria Road. We turned right onto the ring road and we ran around anti-clockwise to Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we ran up the hill to the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. When we got to Hanley we called for a taxi to Blurton. The taxi appeared and it was a Z Carz taxi. We got in taxi and we set off along onto Lichfield Street and we ran down the hill to Joiners Square. We crossed the roundabout onto Victoria Road and we turned onto Manor Street. We turned right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Wheildon Road and we ran forwards onto Grove Road. In Heron Cross we turned right onto Blurton Road. As we travelled through Blurton we passed First Potteries 67145 on a #22 to Longton. We continued through Blurton and we turned right onto Church Street and right onto Beaconsfield Drive. We got home. We finished off the Blog and then we went back to the residential unit in the car. We set off through Blurton onto Finstock Avenue and we turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive where we saw silver minibus C11 HTC parked up. We turned left onto Church Road and left again onto Blurton Road. We went through the traffic lights onto Heron Street. We carried on forwards onto Station Bridge Road and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Masterson Street and we turned right onto Watkin Street. We continued onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs to his room and we put all his shopping in his cupboard or in the kitchen. Matthew had a can of Irn Bru. He chilled out in his room using his computer and watching buses out of the window. Before tea We went downstairs out for a walk to fetch his tea. we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We ordered sausages and chips gravy and then we walked back along Smithpool Road and onto and back to the residential unit. We went upstairs and Matthew went to his room to chill out. Matthew went into the living room to have tea. Matthew ate his sausages and chips gravy followed by a Butterfly cake. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto City Road and we saw Afford rent-a-car CA70 BHZ outside there yard.

Afford rent-a-car CA70 BHZ in Fenton

A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67180 on a #11 to Newcastle.

First Potteries 67180 in Fenton

We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill over the old railway line to Leek and onto the A52. We ran under the railway line and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street. After a brief stop in Stoke we continued along church Street and forwards onto Hartshill Road. We ran up the hill and into Hartshill. We ran forwards onto George Street and we ran down the hill into Newcastle. We turned left at the roundabout onto Barracks Road and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. We set off onto Hassell Street and we turned right onto High Street and we visited a cash machine. We turned left into Church Street and we turned left onto Bridge Street and we went under the subway on to the A34. We turned left Dunkirk and we saw white minibus SN56 FCL. We walked up Castle Hill Road and we right onto Stanier Street. When we got into the building Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards Matthew went outside and went on the slide. Matthew waned to go inside for a glass of Coke. He also spent time in the soft play area. When we had finished we said goodbye and we returned to Fenton in a bus. We set off onto Stanier Street and we turned left onto the A525. We turned right onto the Southbound A34 and we went under the subway and we walked up Stubbs street and into the bus station. We waited for a bus back to Hanley. A short time later we saw D&G Bus 136 on a #85 to Nantwich. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 35945 on a #25 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35945 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station onto barracks Road and we ran down onto the Southbound A34. We turned left into the hospital and we ran through the grounds and onto Hilton Road. We continued onto Albany Road and we turned right onto The Avenue. At the end of the road we turned right onto the A52 and we ran through Hartshill and down the hill into Stoke town centre. We went forwards onto Church Street and the bus topped in the town centre. After a brief stop we continued over the A500 and we got up and got off the bus just before the railway bridge. We walked up City Road and we cut across onto Temple Street and into the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to chill out on his computer and watch music videos on his television. later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.