Saturday, 13 June 2026

Trip to Sutton Colfield / Great Barr 13-06-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



3805Sutton Coldfield, Stop SDErdington, Stop EH110Arriva Midlands
1788Erdington, Stop EGGreat Barr, Stop GD28NX West Midlands
1826Great Barr, Stop GDErdington, Stop EQ28NX West Midlands
E298Erdington, Stop EQSutton , Stop SJX3NX West Midlands


Today was the first full day of our weekend away. The plan was to go on a short bus trip and then to go to a party later on. Reaearch for the trip consisted of looking up places to park in Sutton Coldfield and to check the weather. The weather was forecast for dry weather with some sunshine. Matthew was alredy awake by 08:00 and he had his medication. Matthew got dressed and we headed to the bar to get fed. Matthew had a full English breakfast. After we had finisehd eating we returned to the room to get ready to go out. Around 09:30 we set off out of the hotel car park onto the B5404. We ram Westwards to Mile Oak and we turned left onto the Southbound A453. We ran though Bangley and past the HS2 building site. We crossed over the A38 at Bassett's Pole roundabout and we ran into Sutton Coldfield. We turned left onto the A5127 and we ran to the edge of town. We turned left into the car park and we parked up. Once out of the car, we said goodbye to mum and we headed down Mill Street where we saw National Express West Midlands E179 on a X3 to Lichfield.


NX West Midlands E179 in Sutton Coldfield
We continued left onto Victoria Road. We crossed over the road and we went around the corner onto Lower Parade. We saw an Arriva bus at the far end of the street. As we got closer we saw it was Arriva Midlands 3805 on a #110 to Birmingham.


Arriva Midlands 3805 in Sutton Coldfield
We got on the bus and we purchased a nBus family day ticket at £9.20 before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off dowm Lower Parade and we continued onto South Parade. We turned right onto the A5127 and we ran past Aldi. We followed the road to the left and we headed Southwards. We continued through Wylde Green and into Erdington where we decided to get up and get off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew got another picture of Arriva Midlands 3805 as it continued towards Birmingham.


Arriva Midlands 3805 in Erdington
We decided to catch a #28 next, as we had seen on Bustimes that there were quite a few old Scania on the service, A quick look at the bus stop and we saw there was a bus due in 5 minutes. Whilst we waited we saw National Express West Midlands 1816 on a #66 to Birmingham. Almost immediately behind this bus was our bus. As it got closer we saw it was National Express West Midlands 1788 on a #28 to Great Barr.


NX West Midlands 1788 in Erdington
We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus family day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down the A5127 and we turned right onto Summer Road. We veered right onto Graelly Lane and we turned left onto Station Road. We turned rigth onto Short Heath Road and we headed Westwards. We ran through Perry Common and continued onto Perry Common Road. We crossed over the A453 and we ran forwards onto Hawtorn Road. We crossed over the B4138 and we ran forwards onto Dyas Road. We turned left onto Aldridge Road and right onto Beeches Road. We turned left onto Hassop Road and we went under the M6. We turned right onto Thornbridge Avenue and we turned left onto Beeches Road. We turned right onto the A34. We headed Nortwards and just short of the A4041 we did a u-turn and stopped at the terminus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 1788 before it worked the next #28 to Alum Rock.


NX West Midlands 1788 in Great Barr
We set off up the A34 and we stopped at Poundland to buy some drinks for later on. After buying the drinks we crossed over the A34 and we headed into the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we went into the lounge and we had drinks. Matthew had a small glass of Coke. When we had finishd our drinks we went outside and we met up with uncle Dave. We battled over the difficult to cross A34 and back to th same bus stop. There was alredy a bus at the stop. As we got closer we saw it was National Express West Midlands 1826 on a #28 to Alum Rock.


NX West Midlands 1826 in Great Barr
We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus family day tickets to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down the A34 and we turned left onto Beeches Road. We turned right onto Thornbridge Road and we turned left onto Hassop Road. We went under the M6 and we re-joined Beeches Road. We turned left onto Aldridge Road and right onto Dyas Road.


NX West Midlands 805 in Erdington


NX West Midlands E298 in Erdington
We got on the bus and we placed flashed the nBus group ticket to the driver for the final time today before we went upstairs and sat down. The bus off Northwards up Sutton New Road. We ran through Wylde Green and into Sutton Coldfield. We followed the A5127 to the right past Aldi and we turned left onto South Parade. We turned right onto Lower Parade and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands E298 as it continued towards Lichfield.


NX West Midlands E298 in Sutton Colfield
Once off the bus we took a few more pictures before we went to find mum. We saw National Express West Midlands 4748 on a #5 to West Bromwich.


NX West Midlands 4748 in Sutton Colfield
We walked into the town cente and we spotted mum in Boots. As we walked back towards the car we spotted National Express West Midlands 2237 on a #5 to West Bromwich.


NX West Midlands 2237 in Sutton Colfield


YJ15 ENM in Bodymoor Heath

Friday, 12 June 2026

Trip to Hanley / Fazeley 12-06-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



63116Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS11First Potteries
63115Newcastle BSHanley, stop S739First Potteries
67156Hanley BSFenton, Victoria Place6AFirst Potteries


Today Matthew was going on a weekend break to Fazeley, but first he was going out on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 anf had his medication. Matthew had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went out on the bus he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre. Matthew got ready to go to Newcastle. Whilst getting ready we saw Stafford and District community transport LA72 DDU heading towards Stoke. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Newcastle. We stood at the bus stop and we waited for a first but to Hanley. Whilst we waited we saw First Potteries 63116 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 63116 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. Once off the bus we walked up Castle Walk and we vivted Home Bargain to pick up presents for me and grandad Alf. We went across the way to Card Factory to get cards. When we had finished we walked back down Castle Walk to the bus station. We waited for a bus towards Hanley. A short time later we saw a bus come on stand. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63116 on a #39 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63115 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. When it was time to go the bus 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 ran up the hill into Hanley and we ran forwards onto Trinity Street. We turned right onto Stafford Street and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked along Stafford Street and we went forwards onto Lichfield Street. We went into the bus station and Matthew visited the toilet. We left thr bus station and we crossed over Lichfield Street and the ring road. We went to the chip shop and Matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished we crossed over the ring road and over Lichfield Street. We headed into the bus station and we waited for a bus to Fenton. A short time later we saw a bus come on stand. As it got closer, we saw it was First Potteries 67156 on a #6A to Blythe Bridge.


First Potteries 67156 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. Whilst he waited he had a can of Irn Bru and a milky Way. We were a little late today, turning up at 15:25. Matthew came downstairs and got in the car. We set off to pick up uncle Dave. We set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Smithpool Road. We turned right onto Wheildon Road and we stopped to pick up Uncle Dave. We set off up Wheildon Road and forwards onto Grove Road. At Heron Cross we turned right onto Blurton Road. We accidentally turned left onto the A50 so we did a u-turn at the next roundabout and headed Westwards. We came off onto Stanley Matthews Way and we headed Southwards. We turned right onto the A5035 and we headed into Trentham. We turned left and we headed Southwards along the A34 through Tittensor and near to Stone. We saw D&G Bus 5025 on a #102 Stone town service. We continued Southwards and we joined the Eastbound A51. We headed through Sandon and Weston and through Worley Bridge. We continued North of Rugeley and we headed into Lichfield. We turned left onto The Friary and right onto St John Street. We passed Select Bus 36 on a #33 to Fradley. We ran forwards onto the A51 and we ran out of town. We ran forwards onto the A5206 past a new devlopment and we crossed a roundabout onto the Southbound A38. We continued for another couple of miles and we turned left onto the A5. We ran through the HS2 roadworks and continued for another couple of miles. We turned left onto the A51 and right onto Ventura Park Road. We turned right onto the A4091 and we headed Southwards under the A5 and into Fazeley. We turned left onto the B5404 and right onto Brook End. We turned right onto Coleshill Street. We turned left onto the B5404 and through the petrol station onto the car park. We parkde up and headed into the hotel. We booked in and we sat at a table. We ordered food and we chilled out in the bar whilst we waited. Matthew had burger and fries washed down with a can of Coke. After we had finished eating we headed to the room. We used the computer and Matthew chilled out. around 20:00 Matthew had his medication. We had a pastel de nata washed down with a cup of Cherry Coke. We wrote some of the Blog and Matthew hd a couple of custard creams. We settled down for the evening and Matthew went to bed around 00:00... Mark

Thursday, 11 June 2026

Trip to Newcastle / Kidsgrove 11-06-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67172Fenton, adj Travers CourtNewcastle BS11First Potteries
63114Newcastle BSTunstall, stop T199First Potteries
63359Tunstall, stop T3Kidsgrove, Mount Road39AFirst Potteries
63178Kidsgrove, St Johns RCHanley BS38AFirst Potteries
67178Hanley BSFenton, Albert Square23First Potteries


Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out on the bus and going to Goldenhill to play bingo. He did not go to see Uncle Dave today. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We onto City Road and we waited for a bus towards Hanley. After a short wait we saw Falcon Coaches YN18 SBZ. A few minutes later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67172 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 67172 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 and past the former pub where we are building a new convenience store. 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. After a short while we saw Stanton's of Stoke 6052 VT on the Go2 to Cheadle.


Stanton's of Stoke 6052 VT in Newcastle bus station
Also seen was First Potteries 63100 on a #39 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63100 in Newcastle bus station
A short time later we saw the bus approaching. It was First Potteries 63114 on a #99 to Chell Heath.


First Potteries 63114 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Tunstall before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station and onto Barracks Road. We crossed the Jubilee roundabout onto the A527 and headed through Wolstanton. Due to a burst watermain there was a diversion. We turned left onto Alexandre Road and right onto Knutton Road before re-joining the A527. We turned right onto Porthill Bank and we we went down the hill and over the A500. We went through Middleport. We continued up the road and at Trubshaw Cross past the site of Price's Teapots which is currently being restored. We went left onto Brownhills Road. We joined Tunstall High Street and at the top of the Road we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of First Potteries 63114 before it carried on towards Chell Heath.


First Potteries 63114 in Tunstall
A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63359 on a #39A to Butt Lane.


First Potteries 63359 in Tunstall
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We went down the High Street. We continued up the High Street past the City Centre Central depot and past the Tesco Express. We ran to towards Goldenhill and down the hill into Kidsgrove where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we walked around the corner onto the B5371 we walked onto the A50 and onto Heathcote Street and Matthew visited the toilet. As we walked through the A50 and we went into the Caffe Latte. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards he had sausage and cheese oatcake washed down with a can of Coke followed by madeire sponge. Once we had finished and we walked back onto the A50 and we walked around the corner onto the B5371 to the Hanley bus stop.


First Potteries 63178 in Kidsgrove
We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down the the B5371 and we turned right onto 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 we ran into Burslem town centre. We ran past the site of the new Kiln Gate Retail park and we continued into Cobridge and down into Hanley. We joined Hope Street and we ran forwards to Stafford Street. We turned right at the end past the town hall and onto Bagnall Street before entering the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. A short time later we saw First Potteries 67146 on a #101 to Stafford.


First Potteries 67146 in Hanley bus station
A short time later we saw a bus turn around the corner. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67178 on a #23 to Newstead.


First Potteries 67178 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat 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 and we crossed over the ring road and we ran down onto Regent Road and forwards onto Cleveland Road. We ran down though Shelton along College Road and we ran down to the railway station. We turned right onto Glebe Street and under the railway line an we ran around the one-way system in Stoke and stopped by Stoke Minster. We turned left onto Church Street and we crossed the A500 we ran under the railway line onto City Road. We ran up the hill and we turned right onto Christchurch Street. When we got to Albert Square we got up and got off the bus. We then walked back to the residential unit. we went upstairs and chilled out in his room. Hr used his computer and watched buses out of the window. We went downstairs to the car and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Christchurch Street and left onto City Road. We ran down the hill into Stoke and we joined the Northbound A500. We ran North up through Etruria and Longport and we joined the Eastbound A527. We ran up the hill to the top end of Tunstall and we turned left onto Chatterley Lane. We turned right onto Hollywall lane and at the end we turned left onto the A50. We stopped at the Goldenhill Community Centre and we went to a fun day. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards had chicken nuggets and chips for tea. Matthew had a can of Coke. For dessert Matthew had a piece of sponge cake with custard. When we had finished we got back into the car and we set off onto the A50. We ran North into Kidsgrove and we turned right onto Mount Road. We continued onto Pennyfield Road and we ran up through Harriseahead and towards Mow Cop. We continued up to the Edge of Biddulph and we turned right onto the A527. We ran Southwards through Brown Lees and Brindley Ford and we followed the road through Knypersley and Fegg Hayes up to Chell. We continued along the A527 through Pits Hill and Sandyford and down to the A500. We ran Southwards through Longport and Etruria and we came off the A500 at Stoke. We ran up the A52 under the railway line and we ran forwards onto City Road and into Fenton. We turned right into Manor Street and left into Victoria Road and we continued onto Victoria Road and we stopped at Buzz Bingo. Matthew went to the toilet and had a cup of Coke. We got an ABC Supreme taxi back to the residential unit. We set off up Victoria Road. We turned right onto City Road and left onto Smithpool Road. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room and chilled out in his room and use his computer and watch buses out of the window. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Tuesday, 9 June 2026

Trip to Newcastle / Trentham 09-06-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67155Fenton, Smithpool RoadStoke, Lytton Street23First Potteries
35950Stoke, Lytton StreetNewcastle BS25First Potteries
63358Newcastle BSTrentham, New Inn Lane22First Potteries
63178Trentham, Poachers Cottage PHHanley BS101First Potteries
63364Hanley BSFenton, Health Centre11First 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 Matthwe went into the living room and we saw Just Travel GV71 KVW. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road to wait a bus to Hanley. We stood at the bus stop outside the flats and we waited for a bus to Stoke. Whilst we waited we saw Travel Express ND21 YFL. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67155 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we booked to Stoke before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off down City Road and we ran down the hill towards Stoke. We went under the railway line and we got up and got off the bus. A short tme later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 35950 on a #25 to Keele.


First Potteries 35950 in Stoke
We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before we went upstairs and sitting down. The bus set off down City Road and over the A500 and straight into Stoke town centre along Church Street and 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. 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. Whilst we waited we saw First Potteries 35687 on a #25 to Hanley.


First Potteries 35687 in Newcastle bus station
The bus appeared and it was First Potteries 63358 on a #22 to Longton.


First Potteries 63358 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Longton before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Barracks Road and we ran Southwards onto the A34. We turned left into the hospital and we ran through the the grounds. We turned right onto Hilton Road and forwards onto Harpfields Road. We ran to the end and we turned left onto the Southbound A34. We ran under the A500 into Hanford we saw First Potteries 67176 on a #22 to Newcastle. and we turned left onto Church Lane. We climbed to the top of the hill and we turned right onto Wilson Road. We turned left onto New Inn Lane and we got up and got off the bus. We walked around the corner onto New Inn Lane. We walked along the footpath which used to be the old railway line to Trentham Gardens. We came out onto Brook Road and we turned right onto Stuart Avenue. We turned left onto the A5035 and we crossed over the A34 and into Trentham Gardens. We parked up and we went to the retail village. Matthew went to the retail village and visited the Millets. Once we had finished shopping we walked down to The News Kiosk Matthew brought can of Coke. We went into the gardens and we walked to the North West corner and we stopped to benches sit down on the benches. Matthew had a can of coke. We walked clockwise around the lake to the lakeside café and Matthew went to the toilet and we stopped at the Cadwaladers Cafe and for dinner Matthew had bacon and cheese oatcakes. When we had finished around the North end of the lake and Matthew stopped to got to the toilet. later on we walked through the retail village and we walked to the the garden centre. Once we had finished 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 a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63178 on a #101 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63178 in Trentham
We got on the bus and we booked to Newcastle before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off Northwards through Trentham. We continued North through Hanford and Trent Vale and we past the City General hospital before going into Newcastle. We turned right onto Barracks Road and we entered the bus station. After a brief stop we continued towards Hanley. We set off onto Barracks Road and we ran forwards onto the one-way system. We continued onto the A52 and when we got to Hartshill we veered left onto Shelton New Road. We ran over the railway line and canal and we went up to Snow Hill. We turned left and ran up Broad Street. We turned right onto the ring road and left onto Bethesda Street. We turned right onto John Street and we ran up to the bus station. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. We waited for a bus back to Fenton. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we waited for a bus back to Fenton. Whilst we waited we saw First Potteries 63179 on a #103 to Crewe. A short time later the bus arrived on stand. It was First Potteries 63364 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 63364 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton we sat down. We set off up set off onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. We turned left onto the ring road and left onto Lichfield Street and we turned right onto Birch Terrace. We followed the road around onto Charles Street and we turned right onto Old Hall Street. We crossed over the ring road onto Bucknall New Road. We ran down the hill through Limekiln lights and we turned right onto Dividy Road. We turned left onto Beverley Drive and right onto Dawlish Drive. We ran through the estate and back onto the A5272. We ran up to Adderley Green and we saw First Potteries 63384 parked in the garage. At the roundabout we turned right onto Anchor Road. We turned left onto Market Street and right onto Commerce Street past the former Co-op Bank. We went arounf the roundabout and turned right onto The Strand. After a brief stop we ran down the Strand and under the railway line onto King Street. We continued down through Fenton and forwards onto City Road. We went past KFC and we got up and got off the bus. We walked down City Road and we turned right onto onto Glebedale Road and we walked along Baker Street. We turned right onto Christchurch Street. We returned onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. When Matthew got back we went upstairs and went up to his room to chill out and use the computer. Later on Matthew went downstairs. We set off onto City Road and we crossed over onto Manor Street for We stopped at the Fenton Community Hall and Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we had a drink of Coke. Matthew had a ham sandwich and sausage rolls. After we had finished we returned to the residential unit. We walked along Manor Street and we crossed over City Road and we turned right onto onto Temple Street and we returned to the residential unit. We went upstairs and back into his room. Later on Matthew chilled out in his room. He watched television and used his computer. Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark.

Monday, 8 June 2026

Trip to Etruria / Wolstanton 08-06-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



67176Fenton, Smithpool RoadNewcastle BS11First Potteries
63114Newcastle BSHanley BS39First Potteries
47519Hanley BSFenton, Victoria Place6First Potteries


Today Matthew was going back to the residential unit, but not before he had been out for dinner and to get his weekly shopping. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. Matthew got up just after 10:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We got ready and we went out just before 12:00. We set off to Newcastle to pick up our friend. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and onto the A5035 and we continued to Trentham and we saw First Potteries 63176 on a #22 to Longton. We turned right onto the A34 and we ran through Hanford and we crossed the A500. We continued through Trent Vale and we saw First Potteries 63352 on a #101 to Stafford. We continued into Newcastle and we turned right onto Barracks Road where we saw D&G Bus 110 on a #33 to Westlands. We turned left onto Ryecroft and stopped to pick up our friend, but he had overslept and was still in bed. We crossed over Ryecroft we ran forwards onto the A53. We ran around one-way system and onto the A52. We ran up to Hartshill and we ran forwards onto Shelton New Road. We turned right onto Garner Street and we stopped at the food truck. Matthew had a cumberland ring with bacon and egg washed down with can of Coke. When we had finished we set of to the shop. We bran along Garner Street to Etruria and we turned left onto the A53. We veered left onto Forge Lane. We ran forwards onto Shelton Boulevard and we turned left onto the Etruria Valley Link Road. We went under the A500 passing First Potteries 67144 on a #501 Etruria Valley circular service. We turned left onto the retail park and we saw First Potteries 35940 on #501 Festival Park retail. We parked up and we saw grey minibus SB72 FJP parked up.


SB72 FJP in Wolstanton
We went into the shop and we did Matthew weekly shop. We went outside and we saw Saint Wulstan Catholic DY58 AKG.


Saint Wulstan Catholic DY58 AKG in Wolstanton
We went back to the car and we set off out of the retail park. As we left the retail park we saw First Potteries 35940 on a #501 Etruria Valley circular. 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. We turned left onto the A5035 and we saw First Potteries 63358 on a #22 to Longton and First Potteries 63176 on a #22 to Newcastle. We got back to Blurton around 14:00. Matthew went on his computer and had a Biscoff ice cream sandwich washed down with a can of Cherry Coke. We wrote some Blog and we saw D&G Bus 90 on a #24 to Newstead. We afterwards Matthew returned to the residential unit. We got in the car and we set off through Burton and we ran along Beaconsfield Drive where we saw gold minibus DE04 FNZ parked up. We turned left onto Church Street and left onto Blurton Road. 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 LA72 DDU. 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 chilled out on his computer and watched buses out of the window. Matthew chilled out in his room and we saw Shelton Care Group FP75 DZB outside. For a late tea Matthew had bangers and mash followed by angel cake and custard. We went downstairs and we and we cut through onto City Road. We crossed over Smithpool Road and we stopped at the next bus stop. We waited for a bus to Newcastle. A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was First Potteries 67176 on a #11 to Newcastle.


First Potteries 67176 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. On the way up to the stops we saw D&G Bus 145 parked up on layover.


D&G Bus 145 in Newcastle bus station
A short time later we saw First Potteries 35689 on a #25 to Hanley.


First Potteries 35689 in Newcastle bus station
As it got closer we saw that it was First Potteries 63114 on a #39 to Hanley.


First Potteries 63114 in Newcastle bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before we sat down towards the back of the bus. When it was time to go the bus 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 ran up the hill into Hanley and we ran forwards onto Trinity Street. We turned right onto Stafford Street and we continued past the Albion and the town Hall and we ran forwards onto Bagnall Street and into the bus station. Once off the bus Matthew went to the toilet. A short time later we saw First Potteries 67146 on a #37 to Longton. A short time later we saw a bus come on stand. It was First Potteries 47519 on a #6 to Coalville.


First Potteries 47519 in Hanley bus station
We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down. 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 past the site new Lidl. We crossed over 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 up to his room to chill out. He 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

Saturday, 6 June 2026

Trip to Macclesfield / Congleton 06-06-2026
















BusFromToServiceOperator



6015Macclesfield BSCongleton BS38D&G Bus
504Congleton BSMiddlewich, Waters Edge Medical42D&G Bus
574Middlewich, British LegionSandbach, Common37D&G Bus
56Sandbach, CommonMiddlewich, British Legion37D&G Bus
576Middlewich, British LegionSandbach, Common37D&G Bus
6014Sandbach, Military Arms PHMacclesfield BS38D&G Bus


Today we decided to re-visit Macclesfield. We checked the available bus tickets for High Peak, D&G Bus and even Bee Network should we go further afield. We also looked at places to eat and where to park. The weather was forecast for warm, mainly dry and with some sunshine. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. We got up at 10:30 and Matthew had toast and orange juice for breakfast. After getting dressed we set off around 12:00 to pick up uncle Dave. We got in the car and we set off through Blurton and we ran along 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 into Meir. We turned left onto the A520 and right onto Woodville Road. We turned left onto Westwood Road and right onto Stansmore Road. We ran to the end and we stopped outside a cafe. We went in and ordered food. Matthew had a breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. After we had finished eating Matthew used the toilet and we got back into the car. We set off along Stansmore Road and we turned left onto Brookwood Drive. We turned right onto the A520 and we ran through Cellarhead, and hrough Wetley Rocks. As we approached Cheddleton we saw that the van was getting ready to leave for the day. We continued North through Cheddleton and Leek Brook and into the cente of Leek. We ran forwards onto St Edwards Street and we turned left onto the A523 and we past the site of the new Tim Hortons. We continued Northwards through Rushton Spencer and into Macclesfield. On the edge of town we ran forwards onto the A536 and we followed the road to the left. We turned right onto Churchill Way and we turned right onto Stanley Street and we parked jup in the multi-storey car park. We bought a ticket and we said goodbye to mum before setting off down the stairs and onto Stanley Street. We turned left onto Churchill Way and left onto Castle Street. We turned right onto Mill Street ans we headed towards the bus station. On the way we stopped to look at the Ian Curtis mural on the side of the Express Mini Market. We stood in the viewing area and Matthew got a picture of High Peak 294 which was parked up in the bus station.


High Peak 294 in Macclesfield bus station
We walked into the bus station and we looked for a bus we could catch. There were only 2 buses in service in the bus station. As we got closer to one of them we saw it was D&G Bus 6015 on a #38 to Crewe,


D&G Bus 6015 in Macclesfield bus station
We got on the bus and we bought D&G Network Day tickets at £6.90 each before sitting down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto Mill Street. We ran forwards onto Park Green and we turned left onto the A536. We ran past Macclesfield college and we follwed the A536 to the left. We ran out of town through Gawsworth and Eaton. We ran to the edge of town and we joined the Southbound A34. We ran down the hill and we turned left onto the A54. We entered the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 6015 before it continued towards Crewe.


D&G Bus 6015 in Congleton bus station
Once off the bus we throught about what we might do next. There were a couple of buses on layover. We saw D&G Bus 795 on layover in between runs on the #94 to Newcastle.


D&G Bus 795 in Congleton bus station
We decided that we would do the #42 when it was due off at 15:00. We saw it was D&G Bus 504 on a #42 to Crewe.


D&G Bus 504 in Congleton bus station
Whilst we waited for it to be readied for service, we walked into town to go to the pub. We set off along the A54 and we turned right onto Kinsey Street. We turned right onto Market Square and we walked past the Congleton Museum. We crossed over the High Street and we went to the pub. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we went to the bar and Matthew had a small glass of Coke. When we had finished we crossed over High Street and we went forwards onto Market Square. On the way back we found a short cut. We walked down the side of the library and down a walkway into the bus station. Whilst we waited for our bus to be readied for service. we sat down on a bench. A few minutes later we saw D&G Bus 5014 on a town circular service.


D&G Bus 5014 in Congleton bus station
A few minutes later D&G Bus 504 pulled onto the stand. We got on the bus and we placed the D&G Bus Network Day ticket under the scanner. The bus was empty, so Matthew took a picture inside D&G Bus 504 before we sat down towards the back of the bus.


Inside D&G Bus 504
We set off out of the bus station and we turned left onto the A54. We turned left onto Mill Street and we continued onto Swan Bank. We turned right onto West Street. We ran forwards onto the A34 and we crossed the roundabout onto the A54. We ran out of town throught Somerton and Brereton Heath and into Holmes Chapel. There was a diversion and due to roadworks we did not call at every stop in town. We ran out of town and we crossed over the M6 at junction 18. We ran through Sproston Green and at the edge of Middlewich we turned right onto Centurion Way. We turned left onto King Street ans we headed Southwards towards the centre of Middlewich. We turned right to re-join the A54 and we crossed over the canal before turning left onto the A533 where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus, Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 504 as it continued towards Crewe.


D&G Bus 504 in Middlewich
We got off the bus and we saw D&G Bus 33 on a #42 to Congleton. We decided to check out the canal. We went under the A54, and we turned around again because we walked along the canal to the next stop. We walked past 3 locks and up to the next road bridge where we left the canal and walked onto the A533. We had about 10 minutes to wait for a bus towards Sandbach. A few minutes later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 574 on a #37 to Crewe.


D&G Bus 574 in Middlewich
We got on the bus and we placed the D&G Bus Network Day ticket under the scanner before we set down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the A533 and we headed Southwards. We turned right onto Long Lane South and right onto Warmingham Lane. We ran through the estate and we turned left Cross Lane. We turned right and we re-joined the Southbound A533. We ran alongside of the canal and into Sandbach through Elworth. We turned left Hightown and at the next roundabout we ran forwards on Congleton Road. We turned right onto The Commons and we ran onto the other side of the triangle where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus, Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 574 as it continued towards Crewe.


D&G Bus 574 in Sandbach
Once off the bus we headed into the shop and we bought a bottle of Coke and a couple of chocolate bars. Matthew indicated that he needed the toilet so we headed to the toilet by the market. We headed back to the bus stop and we saw D&G Bus 3011 on a #317 to Alsager.


D&G Bus 3011 in Sandbach
We waited for the bus towards Northwich. A short time we saw the bus appear on the other side of the common. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 56 on a #37 to Northwich.


D&G Bus 56 in Sandbach
We got on the bus and we placed the D&G Bus Network Day ticket under the scanner before we set down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the common and we joined the Northbound A533. We ran out of town past the railway station towards Elworth. We turned left onto Cross Lane and right onto Warmingham Lane. We ran through the estate and we turned right Long Lane South. We turned right and we re-joined the Northbound A533. We ran alongside the canal and into Middlewich. We got up and got off the bus. We had just over 10 minutes for the bus back South, so we crossed the road and we headed into the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwadrs Matthew had a small glass of Coke. After we had finished we went outside to catch the bus. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 576 on a #37 to Crewe.


D&G Bus 576 in Middlewich
We got on the bus and we placed the D&G Bus Network Day ticket under the scanner before we set down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the A533 and we headed Southwards. We turned right onto Long Lane South and right onto Warmingham Lane. We ran through the estate and we turned left Cross Lane. We turned right and we re-joined the Southbound A533. We ran alongside of the canal and into Sandbach through Elworth. We turned left Hightown and at the next roundabout we ran forwards on Congleton Road. We turned right onto The Commons and we ran onto the other side of the triangle where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus, Matthew took another picture of D&G Bus 576 as it continued towards Crewe.


D&G Bus 576 in Sandbach
On the other side of the common our next bus was already at the stop. As we got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 6014 on a #38 to Macclesfield.


D&G Bus 6014 in Sandbach
We got on the bus and we placed the D&G Bus Network Day ticket under the scanner for the final time today before we set down towards the back of the bus. We set off along the Common onto Congleton Road. We joined the A534 and past the site of the new development by the M6. We continued along the A534 and we crossed over the M6 and into Arclid. We carried on through Medhurst Green and we crossed over the Wall Hill roundabouts. On the edge of Congleton we joined the A34 and we ran East along the road for a short while before going onto West Street. We entered town along Antrobus Street, Mill Street and Mountbatten Way. We turned right into Market Street, past the Bear Grills cafe and into the bus station. After a short wait we got back onto the A54 and we headed Westwards. We turned right onto the Northbound A34 and at the edge of town we turned right onto the A536. We ran through Eaton and Gawsworth and into Macclesfield. We continued along A536 and we ran into Sutherland Street. We turned left into Waters Green and Queen Victoria Street. When we got to the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we headed out of the bus station. Matthew got another picture of D&G Bus 6014 before working a #38 to Crewe.


D&G Bus 6014 in Macclesfield bus station
We set off on foot to go and meet up with mum. We turned right onto Mill Street and right onto Queen Victoria Street. We continued onto Waters Green and we stopped at the pub. Matthew went to the toilet and afterwards we headed to the bar. Matthew had a small glass of Coke. After we had finished we met up with uncle Dave and we continued on foot towards mum. We continued along Waters Green and we walked forwards onto Gas Road. We went under the A523 and we walked along a footpath next to the River Bollin. We crossed the B5470 and we headed into the car park at Tesco. We met up with mum and we got in the car. Matthew had a sausage roll and a can of Cherry Coke. We set off out of the car park onto Black Lane and we turned right onto the B5470. We turned left and we headed Southwards down the A523. We turned right onto the A536 and we turned left to follow the A536 out of town. We ran past Macclefield College and we turned left to continue following the A536. We ran through Gawsworth and Rodeheath and through Eaton. As we approached Lower Heath we went past the chip shop we suposed to stop at! We turned around at Giantswood Lane to go back to the chip shop. Whilst waiting to get back onto the A536 we saw grey minicoach JA58 BUS and white coach YH67 XSM. We stopped at the chip shop and I went inside to get food. Matthew had sausage chips and gravy and we also bought a can of Dandelion & Burdock for later on. When I had finished eating we set off onto the A536 and we joined the Southbound A34. We ran down into the valley and we turned right onto the A534. We continued through Medhurst Green and Arclid. As we approached the M6 we passed D&G Bus 135 on #38 to Congleton. We joined the Southbound M6 and as we travelled through Cheshire we saw an unidentified Anthony Travel and an unidentified white green and blue double decker (Kaz's Crusaders?). We came off the M6 at junction 16 and we joined the Southbound A500 through Longport and Etruria into Stoke. We came off the A500 and we diverted onto Whieldon Road past the old Board Products factory which is being converted into a new soft play place. We dropped off uncle Dave and Matthew got out to use the toilet. He also had some of uncle Rob's Fanta. We updated uncle daves calendar to show recent activity. Once we had dropped off uncle Dave we set off onto Wheildon Road and past the former Regent pub which is now up for sale. We ran forwards onto Grove Road and we saw green minibus R482 NDM parked up. We turned right onto Blurton Road and we crossed over the A50. We continued through Blurton and we turned right onto Church Road. We turned right onto the A5035 and we got back to Blurton around 19:40. 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 Youtube and we got ready for bed. Matthew settled down around 00:30... Mark