Trip to Newcastle / Stafford 01-11-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
6011	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Newcastle BS	1	D&G Bus
35947	Newcastle BS	Stafford, Station Road	101	First Potteries
63172	Stafford BS	Newcastle BS	101	First Potteries
63175	Newcastle BS	Blurton, adj Landybank Grove	22	First Potteries
67152	Blurton, adj Landybank Grove	Hanley BS	23	First Potteries
67152	Hanley BS	Fenton, Albert Square	23	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 and orange juice for breakfast. Whilst in the room we went out on the bus to Newcastle. We went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. We walked down to the bus stop outside the flats. We stood at the bus stop and we waited for a bus towards Newcastle. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was D&G Bus 6011 on a #1 to Park Site.

D&G Bus 6011 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. 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 off the bus we went up Castle Walk and we visited Home Bargains. Matthew wantd to cherry and almond flavour flapjack and bottle of Coke. When we had finished we headed back to the bus station. A few minutes later a bus appeared and it was First Potteries 35947 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 35947 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Stafford before we went upstairs and down towards. We set off out of the bus station and onto Barracks Road. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we ran down through Trent Vale and into Hanford. We continued down through to Trentham and then we got onto the fast section of the A34. We ran through Tittensor to Darlaston and we continued down to the North end of Stone. We Veered left onto Newcastle Road and we ran into Stone town centre. After going around the one-way system and onto Stafford Road. We crossed over the A34 onto Eccleshall Road. We turned left onto Tilling Drive and we ran onto the industrial estate. We saw former East Riding Council minibus DG63 MXT. We rejoined the A34 at the roundabout where the A51 goes Eastwards and we ran Southwards through the fast section on the A34 to the A513 roundabout. We ran the last couple of miles into town down the A34 onto Foregate Street and we turned right onto Chell Road. We crossed the roundabout onto Tenterbanks and we turned right onto Victoria Road. We turned left onto Station Road and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we had a look around to see what we might catch. We saw Arriva Midlands 3748 on a #5 to Telford.

Arriva Midlands 3748 in Stafford

We continued to the park and and Matthew decided he wanted to go to the toilet. We went back past St Mary's into the town centre We walked over market Square onto Gaolgate Street and past the Market Square. We continued through the Market Square and forwards onto Greengate Street and left onto South Walls. We Veered left onto Staffordshire Place and we ran into Tipping Street. We turned right onto Gaolgate Street and past the Market Square to the Guildhall shopping centre. After a quick stop at Cash Converters. We continued through the Market Square and forwards onto Greengate Street and we went in the Katharine House Hospice Shop. We went onto Martin Street. Afterwards we cut through onto Eastgate Street and left onto Salter Street and we stopped at Salter Street Toys & Models and Matthew bought some boots. When he had finished eating we went next door to Little Red Fox Play Cafe. We turned right onto Greengate Street and we turned right and we stopped at the bus station. In the bus station we saw Select Bus 18 on a #9 to Highfields.

Select Bus 18 in Stafford bus station

We waited for a bus back towards Newcastle. A short time later we saw Select Bus 15 on a #12 to Doxey.

Select Bus 15 in Stafford bus station

Whilst we waited we saw Chaserider 593 on a #826 to Lichfield.

Chaserider 593 in Stafford bus station

A few minutes later the bus turned up and it was dud First Potteries 63172 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 63172 in Stafford bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We left the bus station onto the A34 and we ran Northwards to the edge of town. We continued up the fast section of the A34 to the edge of Stone and then we turned left onto the industrial estate. We ran around the estate and onto Tiling Drive. We turned right onto Eccleshall Road and we crossed the A34 onto Stafford Road. We turned left onto Crown Street and we stopped at the main stop in Stone. We ran North up Newcastle Road and we re-joined the Northbound A34. We ran Morth through Meaford and Tittensor and up into Trentham. We continued North through Hanford and Trent Vale and we past the City General hospital before going into Newcastle. We turned right onto Barracks Road and we entered the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Once of the bus we set off up Castle Walk and we stopped stopped at Cancer Research. We continued up Castle Walk and up onto Ironmarket. We returned to the cafe and Matthew had a a piece of bakewell tart washed down with a can of Coke. After we had finished eating we continued down Castle Walk and we turned into the the stop outside the bus station. A few minutes later we saw a bus turn the corner. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 63175 on the #22 to Longton.

First Potteries 63175 in Newcastle bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Blurton 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 saw D&G Bus 6006 on a #9 to Clayton. We continued through the hospital 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 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 ran into Trentham. We turned left onto the A5035 and we crossed over the railway line into Blurton. We passed the end of Stanley Matthew Way and we turned left onto Magdalen Road. We turned right onto Finstock Avenue and left onto Beaconsfield Drive where we got up and got off the bus. As short time later the bus came around the corner. As exoected we saw it was First Potteries 67152 on a #23 to Hanley.

First Potteries 67152 in Fenton

We got on the bus booked to Hanley before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off along Beaconsfield Drive and we turned left onto Church Road. At the roundabout we veered left onto Blurton Road. We ran through Blurton and up the hill into Heron Cross. We crossed over the A50 and we went through the traffice lights onto Heron Street. We followed the road around onto Station Bridge Road and and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road and we joined the A52 to go under the railway line and over the A500. We continued onto Church Street and into the centre of Stoke. After a brief stop we continued around the one-way system onto Elenora Steet and right onto Copeland street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we went under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. We went past the railway station and and turned right. We ran up Stoke Road and we turned right onto Avenue Road. At the roundabout we turned left onto College Road. After running the hill through Shelton we continued onto Cleveland Road and forwards onto Regent Road. We turned left onto Lower Bethesda Street and we crossed over the ring road onto Bethesda Street before we turned right onto John Street where we got up and got off the bus. We set off out of the bus station onto Lichfield Street and forwards onto Tontine Street. We continued onto Tontine Square and into the Intu Potteries Shopping centre. We went into the market hall and we went to Terry's cafe for something to eat. We went through the shopping centre. Afterwards we came back down and went to Primark. We came out of the shopping centre and we walked back along Tontine Square towards TK Maxx. We cam out of the bottom of TK Maxx onto Tontine Square and we came out on Parliament Row. We stopped at McDonalds and Matthew had a burger and fries was down with a cup of Coke. Matthew went to the toilet. After he had eaten his food we headed along Parliament Row and we walked onto Old Hall Street. We walked up Lichfield Street and back to the bus station. We waited for a bus back towards Fenton we saw First Potteries 67150 on a #7 to Kidsgrove. A short time later we saw a bus turn around the corner. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67152 on a #23 to Newstead.

First Potteries 67152 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus and we booked to Fenton before we sat down. We set off onto John Street and we turned left onto Bethesda Street. 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 and we ran under the railway line. After climbing up the hill into Fenton we turned right into Christchurch Street where we got up and got off the bus. We walked 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 bottle of Coke and cherry and almond flavour flapjack. Later on Matthew had a bath and had toast for supper. Matthew went on his computer until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Hanley / Stafford 06-04-2024

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
67154	Fenton, adj Travers Court	Hanley BS	23	First Potteries
35938	Hanley BS	Stafford, Chell Road	101	First Potteries
35933	Stafford, Chell Road	Hanley BS	101	First Potteries
67149	Hanley BS	Fenton, Alfred Street	6	First Potteries

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to Stafford on the bus. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto City Road. We walked down to the bus stop outside the flats. We waited for a bus to Hanley. A short time later we saw a bus turn around the corner. As it got closer we saw it was First Potteries 67154 on a #23 to Hanley. We got on the bus and we placed the Smart Day ticket on the scanner 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 followed the one-way system around onto Elenora Street and right onto Copeland Street. We turned left onto Glebe Street and we ran under the railway line before turning left onto Station Road. After stopping briefly outside the railway station we turned right onto College Road and We turned left onto Avenue Road where we saw A1 Embassy YX17 ZZL. We turned right onto Stoke Road. We ran up through Shelton into Snow Hill and forwards onto Broad Street. We turned right onto Marsh Street and then we turned right into Pall Mall. We ran forwards onto Bagnall Street and into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Once we got off the bus and Matthew took a picture of First Potteries 67154 as it continued towards Trentham.

First Potteries 67154 in Hanley bus station

Afterwards we waited for a bus to Stafford. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 35938 on a #101 to Stafford.

First Potteries 35938 in Hanley bus station

We got on and we booked to Stafford before sitting down towards the back of the bus. We set off through the bus station and onto John Street. We turned right onto Bethesda Street and left onto Broad Street. We ran down the hill and over the ring road onto Snow Hill Before we turned right onto Shelton New Road and we saw Cabability minibus DG17 UYM parkd up at their depot. We ran down through Etruria an up into Hartshill before joining the A52. We ran into Newcastle down George Street. We joined the one way system and we turned left on the roundabout onto Barracks Road. As we got to the bus station onto Barracks Road. We ran Southwards onto the A34 and we ran down through Trent Vale and into Hanford. We continued down through to Trentham and then we got onto the fast section of the A34. We ran through Tittensor to Darlaston and past the roundabout where the new KFC has been built. We continued down to the North end of Stone. We Veered left onto Newcastle Road and we ran into Stone town centre. After going around the one-way system and onto Stafford Road. We crossed over the A34 onto Eccleshall Road. We turned left onto Tilling Drive and we ran onto the industrial estate. We saw former Wolverhampton Council minibus WX07 DKN. We rejoined the A34 at the roundabout where the A51 goes Eastwards and we ran Southwards through the fast section on the A34 to the A513 roundabout. We ran the last couple of miles into town down the A34 onto Foregate Street and we turned right onto Chell Road where we got up and got off the bus. We crossed over Chell Road and we set off past the old Wilko now Poundland and we turned right onto Gaolgate Street. Matthew used the toilet and afterwards we continued into the Guildhall market. Matthew had an English breakfast washed down with a can of Coke. When we had finished we set off out of the market onto Chell Road. Whilst we waited for a bus we spotted Arriva Midlands 3748 on a #5 to Telford.

Arriva Midlands 3748 in in Stafford

As few minutes later we saw Select 35 on a #7 to Moss Pit.

Select 35 in Stafford

A short time later the bus arrived on stand. We saw it was First Potteries 35933 on a #101 to Hanley.

First Potteries 35933 in Stafford

We got on the bus and we the Knot ticket to the driver. The bus set off along Chell Road and we ran down to the railway station past the new cafe in Victoria Park. We ran around the South end of town and over the river onto Cope Street. We ran up Eastgate and along North Walls and into the Gaol Square bus station. We left the bus station onto the A34 and we ran Northwards to the edge of town. Due to roadworks on the A34 roundabout we turned left onto the M6 link road and at the first roundabout we did a 180' turned and rejoined the A34. We continued up the fast section of the A34 to the edge of Stone and then we turned left onto the industrial estate. We ran around the estate and onto Tiling Drive. We turned right onto Eccleshall Road and we crossed the A34 onto Stafford Road. We turned left onto Crown Street and we stopped at the main stop in Stone. We ran North up Newcastle Road and we re-joined the Northbound A34. We ran Morth through Meaford and Tittensor and up into Trentham. We continued North through Hanford and Trent Vale and we past the City General hospital before going into Newcastle bus station. We onto Barracks Road. We crossed the roundabout onto the A53 and we went onto the one-way system on the A52. We veered left onto George Street and at the roundabout we went onto Shelton New Road. We crossed over the A500 and we ran up to Snow Hill. We ran up Broad Street and we turned right onto the anti-clockwise ring road. We turned left onto Bethesda Street and right onto John Street. We climbed the hill and up into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew visited the toilet. Afterwards we saw First Potteries 63118 on a #3 to Crewe. A few minutes later the bus appeared and it was First Potteries 67149 on a #6 to Parkhall.

First Potteries 67149 in Hanley bus station

We got on the bus 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 on the road at the back of Victoria Road. We turned left onto Manor Street and we turned left onto City Road. We crossed over onto Christchurch Street and we turned right onto Temple Street and we returned 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 bottle of Coke and a toffee Crisp. Later on we went downstairs and we set off onto Temple Street. We turned left onto Smithpool Road. We crossed over the railway line and we walked down to the entrance of the park. For dinner Matthew had washed down a can of Irn Bru. In the park Matthew walked up to the playground. Once we had finished in the park we walked back along Smithpool Road. We turned right onto City Road and we stopped at the kebab shop and we brought burger and fries. When we brought the food we walked back down City Road and we turned left into Christchurch Street. We turned left onto Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went upstairs to his room to chill out and use the computer. For tea Matthew had burger and fries followed a couple of slices of syrup sponge puddinge. Matthew also had a can of Coke. We chilled out on his computer. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to Stafford / Penkridge 10-07-2021

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

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going to Stafford. New road leads the way for Stafford Station Gateway Masterplan. Matthew got up around 08:00 and had toast for breakfast. before Matthew went to the day centre he watched buses out of the window. whilst waiting for the time to go to the day centre, we saw Temple Street Church RX18 GZW.

Temple Street Church RX18 GZW in Fenton

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

BJ12 OAN in Fenton

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

Trip to Wolverhampton / Walsall 18-03-2017

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
4152	Wolverhampton BS	Bilston, War Memorial (Stop BB)	79	NX West Midlands
2706	Bilston Interchange	Bloxwich, Bulls Head (Stop BA)	326	Arriva Midlands
2118	Bloxwich, Bulls Head (Stop BD)	Walsall St Pauls BS	302	NX West Midlands
4540	Walsall St Pauls BS	Wolverhampton BS	69	NX West Midlands
3748	Wolverhampton BS	Compton, Martham Drive (W Bound)	9	Arriva Midlands
4797	Compton, Compton Square	Wolverhampton BS	10A	Arriva Midlands
5402	Wolverhampton BS	Wednesfield, Church Street(nwmjpawp)	59	NX West Midlands
4133	Wednesfield, Church Street(nwmjpawt)	Wolverhampton BS	59	NX West Midlands

Today we decided to re-visit Wolverhampton. It was going to be the last trip that we did with Matthew for nearly 2 weeks so we wanted to make it a special one. We showed Matthew the map of the Midlands and North West area and on the map Matthew chose Wolverhampton. We checked the weather for the area and it was for mainly dry weather with some sunshine and showers. Research for the trip consisted of going on the Network West Midlands website and downloading Wolverhampton area map. I think Matthew wanted to ride on a few more of the national Express West Midlands Y reg Dennis Trident double deckers. Matthew got up around 09:30 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We set off around 11:30 and we ran down to the A5035. We headed into Trentham and when we got to Trentham Gardens we turned right onto the A34. At the next set off lights we went left onto Whitmore Road and we ran up the hill to the A519. We turned right onto the A519 and then left at the roundabout onto the Southbound M6. As we ran South we passed a number of vehicles. We saw 4 unidentified Birmingham International coaches, an unidentified Aston Manor coach, an unidentified Wheelers coach as well as Park's of Hamilton (National Express) LSK 519 (#570) & an unidentified white Renault minibus. We came off the M6 at junction 12 and we went Eastwards to the Truckers Rest on the south side of the A5 just before Cannock, where we stopped for dinner. Matthew went to the toilet and mum ordered the food. Matthew had a breakfast which he washed down with a can of Coke. Once we had finished we got back in the car and we went West along the A5. At the lights we turned left onto Vicarage Road. We ran through the village of Four Ashes and then we turned left onto the A449. We ran South down the A449 for around 5 miles until we got to the edge of Wolverhampton and then we went onto the anti-clockwise ring road. We ran past the bus and railway stations and then we turned left onto Bilston Street. We turned right onto Pipers Row and then left into Castle Street where we stopped to get out of the car. We said goodbye to mum and we walked to the bus station whilst mum went to park the car somewhere. The first thing we saw when we entered the bus station was required National Express West Midlands Dennis Trident double decker 4152 about to work the next #79 to West Bromwich.

NX West Midlands 4152 in Wolverhampton bus station

We decided to do this bus so we waited for the crew to change over and the driver to ready the bus for service. We got on and we booked nBus day tickets at £4.30 each before we went upstairs. As we waited for the bus to depart I checked the football fixtures to see where West Brom were playing. West Brom were at home and in the early kick off against Arsenal so going to west Brom on the bus today was perhaps not the best option! We set off out of the bus station and onto Pipers Row. We stopped at the roundabout and we spotted that the bus in front of us was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4152.

Inside NX West Midlands 4152

We ran onto the A41 and we ran South Eastwards for a mile or so. Before the road and the tram line separated we saw an old petrol station on the left which now appeared to be a a garage for a minibus company. In the yard we saw maroon minibuses RJ04 WNT & P238 OEV. We also saw an unidentified Thandi Coaches maroon coloured double decker tri-axle coach go across the road in front of us. The road and the tram line separated and we continued for around another mile or so into Bilston town centre. When we got to the stop by the war memorial we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 4152 before it continued south to West Bromwich.

NX West Midlands 4152 in Bilston

Once off the bus bus we crossed over Lichfield Street and we walked Northwards towards the roundabout. We then walked along Hall Street towards the Interchange. We stopped at the bridge so Matthew could take a picture of the Birmingham bound tram below us. Once in the interchange we had a look around to see what we could catch. We saw required Arriva Midlands 2156 on layover and we also saw dud National Express West Midlands 4136 arrive on a #82 to Dudley. We also saw required Banga Travel V261 DRB on a #530 to Rocket Pool.

Banga Travel V261 DRB in Bilston interchange

A few minutes later we saw an Arriva Midlands bus come into the Interchange. It was dud Arriva Midlands 2706 which was about to work a #326 service to Bloxwich.

Arriva Midlands 2706 in Bilston interchange

We decided to do the bus so after the driver had readied it for service, we got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the Interchange and we turned left onto Hall Street and then turned left onto the A41. We turned right onto Mount Pleasant and right onto Beckett Street. We turned left onto Lunt Road which runs parallel to the Black Country Route for a short while and we swept North along Vulcan Road and Lunt Road on Darlston Lane. We Crossed Willenhall Road onto Moseley Road and we turned right onto Beccles Drive. We continued onto Dilloways Lane and we crossed the A454 before we entered Willenhall from the West. We decided to get off in Willenhall. We came into the town and we turned left onto Cheapside. We left Willenhall along Lower Lichfield Street and we ran North Eastwards onto Stringes Lane. We continued onto Charles Street and we turned left onto the A462. We travel through Shortheath and continued north up to New Invention. At the roundabout we turned right onto the A4124 and we ran under the M6 and travelled East for around a mile. We turned right onto Sneyd Hall Road and we ran around the housing estate along central Drive. We turned left onto the B4210 and at the traffic light we turned right onto the A4124 again. We continued to the A34 and we headed South into Bloxwich. We let the bus empty and Matthew took a picture inside Arriva Midlands 2706.

Inside Arriva Midlands 2706

Once we got off the bus Matthew took another picture of Arriva Midlands 2706 before it returned to Bilston on the next #326 service.

Arriva Midlands 2706 in Bloxwich

We walked down the High Street and we crossed over the road and visited the Martin's newsagents. Matthew had a can of Coke and a small bottle of Barr cola as well as a couple of chocolate bars. Once we had paid for the stuff we came out of the shop and i asked if Matthew want to walk onto Wolverhampton Road to catch a #89 or cross over to wait for something going towards Walsall. Matthew chose to go towards Walsall so we crossed back over the High Street and we walked towards the stop. On the way we saw Arriva Midlands 3308 on a #2 to Walsall.

Arriva Midlands 3308 in Bloxwich

We stood at the stop and we waited for the next Walsall bound bus. A few minutes later we saw a National Express West Midlands single decker bus in the distance. As it got closer we saw that it was required National Express West Midlands 2118 on a #302 to Walsall.

NX West Midlands 2118 in Bloxwich

We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off down the High Street and we turned slight left onto the B4210 and we headed the 2 miles or so into Walsall. Coming the other way we passed Rotala Diamond 30854 on a #301 to Mossley and iGo KX08 OLB on a #25 service to Kingstanding. We crossed the ring road and we headed into the bus station down St Pauls Street. The bus pulled up on the end of one of the adjacent stands and we let the bus empty out before Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 2118.

Inside NX West Midlands 2118

Once we got off the bus we headed to the toilet and Matthew used the facilities. We then had a wander around to see what buses were about. We walked through the bus station and onto Hatherton Road where we saw Arriva Midlands 2704 on layover in between workings on the #35A to Lichfield.

Arriva Midlands 2704 in Walsall

We also saw Arriva Midlands 3307 whcih was about to work a #2 to Cannock. We walked back into the bus station and we spotted National Express West Midlands 4540 which was about to work a #69 service to Wolverhampton.

NX West Midlands 4540 in Walsall bus station

We decided to do this bus so we crossed over to the stand and we waited for the bus to be readied for service. We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out off the bus station and we ran along St Pauls Street. At the roundabout we ran onto Green Lane and we crossed over the ring road. We ran North for around a 1/2 mile and then we turned left onto Stephenson Avenue. We entered the Reedswood retail Park and we stopped outside Sainsbury's before we returned back onto the main road. We ran North along Stephenson Avenue and around the Beechdale housing estate where we passed National Express West Midlands 4164 on a #70A to Walsall. We turned left onto Stephenson Square and we ran do to Eddison Road. At the end we turned right onto Cavendish Road and we ran past a pub where there were around 5 ABC Supreme minibuses parked up! We ran forwards onto Bentley lane and we crossed over the M6. We then ran through a woodland area and past Willenhall Cemetery before we entered Shortheath. We briefly joined the A462 before we turned right onto Bloxwich Road North. We ran North up to Pooles Lane and we turned left onto A4124. We passed through New invention and at the next roundabout we turned right onto the A462. We turned right onto Coppice Farm Way and we ran back Southwards towards the A4124. We noticed the bus in front of us was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4540.

Inside NX West Midlands 4540

We continued West along the A4124 and then we turned right onto peacock Avenue up towards Ashmore. We turned left onto Grifiths Drive and we ran Southwards to a big roundabout. We turned right onto Linthouse lane and we went Westwards for another 1/2 mile. We crossed over a roundabout onto Lower Prestwood Road and forwards onto Prestwood Road West. After around another 1/2 mile we turned left into New Cross hospital and we ran through the grounds, turning right onto Wolverhampton Road. We were now back in familiar territory just to the West of Wednesfield town centre. We headed West and we turned right onto the A4124. We ran back into town along the dual carriageway and we crossed under the railway line. We crossed the ring road and we ran along the contraflow lane adjacent to the ring road that took us straight to the entrance of the bus station. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. We considered what bus to do next. We walked up the centre of the bus station and at the top was Travel Express Dart Y864 TGH which was about to set off on a #32 service to Northwood park.

Travel Express Y864 TGH in Wolverhampton bus station

We decided not to do this bus and Matthew then wanted to use the toilet. Matthew used the facilities and then we spotted Arriva Midlands 3748 come into the bus station on a #9 service to Telford via Bridgenorth.

Arriva Midlands 3748 in Wolverhampton bus station

Matthew decided he wanted to do this bus so we walked down the Eastern side of the bus station to the stand on which it was stood. As we waited to get on I quickly whipped out my Wolverhampton bus map and looked which direct the bus went out of town. I saw it went through Compton and I had a vague recollection of catching a bus to their just before Christmas. We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus ticket to the driver, stating we were going as far as Compton. We then sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and onto the ring road we came back inside the town along Broad Street and we turned right into princes square and left into Lichfield Street. We ran out of town stopping on Lichfield street and Darlington Street and we crossed the ring road onto Chapel Ash. We continued West along the A454 and road very quickly became rural. About 2 miles West of the ring road we came into village of Compton. At the main junction we turned left onto Bridgenorth Road. We decided to get up at this point which was lucky as we had gone to far to be of use. Once of the bus we walked the 200 or so yards back into the centre of the village and we crossed over the road to the stop. At this point there were 4 buses an hour, and there was one due in a few minutes. The bus came barrelling around the corner off the Holloway, and it was an Arriva Midlands double decker! As it got closer we saw that it was required Arriva Midlands 4797 on the #10A service to Wolverhampton.

Arriva Midlands 4797 in Compton

We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs and sat down. We ran back into town down the A454 and passed the Harley Davidson Shop on Chapel Ash. We crossed the ring road onto Salop Street and we ran forwards onto Cleveland Street. We turned left onto Garrick Street and we then turned right onto Bilston Street. We ran past the police station and onto the ring road and then enter the bus station. We let the bus empty and then Matthew took a picture inside the top deck of Arriva Midlands 4797.

Inside Arriva Midlands 4797

The plan was now to do a very quick out and back service that would only take 30-45 minutes. There wre a fewoptions around that we let go for one reason or another, that left us with a run up to Wednesfield with National Express West Midlands 5402.

NX West Midlands 5402 in Wolverhampton bus station

Whilst we waited for the bus to be readied for service we saw National Express West Midlands 6785 on a #126 to Birmingham via Dudley.

NX West Midlands 6785 in Wolverhampton bus station

Once the driver was ready we boarded National Express West Midlands 5402 and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver before we went upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 5402.

Inside NX West Midlands 5402

The bus set off out of the bus station and onto Pipers Row. We turned left into Tower street and right into Market Street before turning right again into Queen Street and back onto Pipers Row. We went past the Slade Rooms where we saw Crosslands coach NNZ 9019, tour bus of the LA Guns. We then joined the Northbound ring road for a few yards. We double back on ourselves before turning left into Wednesfield Way and going under the railway line. We carried on along a dual carriageway and we passed New Testement Church of God minibus V372 NGD & KY59 KXH. After about a 1000 yard we turned left onto Wolverhampton Road. We went past New Cross Hospital and forwards onto Rookery Street. Near to the Guru Nanak temple and Sainsbury's we veered left onto Wednesfield High Street and we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of National Express West Midlands 5402 as it carried on towards Ashmore Park.

NX West Midlands 5402 in Wednesfield

We crossed the road and we sat on the bench by the bus stop opposite. Matthew then had a Crunchie and small bottle or barr cola whilst we waited for the next bus. with the #59 running every 8 minutes we knew we wouldn't have to wait too long. Sure enough within a few minutes another bus appeared and it was another Dennis Trident! As it got closer we saw that it was required National Express West Midlands 4133 on a #59 to Wolverhampton.

NX West Midlands 4133 in Wednesfield

We got on the bus and we flashed the nBus day ticket to the driver for the final time today before we went upstairs. The rear of the top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside National Express West Midlands 4133.

Inside NX West Midlands 4133

We ran out of the High Street and forwards onto Rookery Street. We ran forwards onto Wolverhampton Road past New Cross hospital. We headed West and we turned right onto the A4124. We ran back into town along the dual carriageway and we crossed under the railway line. We crossed the ring road and we ran along the contraflow lane adjacent to the ring road that took us straight to the entrance of the bus station. Once in the bus station we got up and got off the bus. Mum had called to say she had moved the car onto Queen Street. Outside the bus station we saw Fastline Travel VDL coach YD14 GCK stopped on Pipers Row.

Fastline Travel YD14 GCK in Wolverhampton bus station

We spotted the car and we headed up towards it...Uncle Dave managed to walk into a post on the edge of the pavement and bang up his knee and jar his back! We got back to the car and mum was waiting with Greggs sausage rolls and a bottle of Irn Bru for Matthew. We set off along Queen Street and onto Pipers Row. We got onto the anti-clockwise ring road and we ran North to the A449. As we turned onto the A449 we saw Marshalls of Sutton coaches PM17 JAM & PM16 JAM. We then travelled North for around 5 miles up to the A5 where we turned right. As we ran East to the motorway we saw Travelmaster M400 STR. We joined the Northbound M6 and we ran up to junction 15. As we travelled North we passed an unidentified white VDL coach and Solus Travel W50 LUS. We got onto the Northbound A500 and we ran up to Sideway. At the A50 we went East to Longton where we came off and went to the Tesco petrol station. We topped up with diesel and then we crossed over the A50 to see what was parked up at Z Carz this evening. On the first row we saw Z Carz Ford minibus YS09 LWV.

Z Carz YS09 LWV in Longton

Also in the first row was Z Carz Volkswagen minibus OV05 WSW.

Z Carz OV05 WSW in Longton

Next to the Volkswagen was Z Carz Ford minibus MJ03 DPU.

Z Carz MJ03 DPU in Longton

Closest bus in the front row was Z Carz Ford minibus HK57 LGW.

Z Carz HK57 LGW in Longton

On the second row was Z Carz Mercedes minibus LV52 TZY.

Z Carz LV52 TZY in Longton

We turned into Willow row to see what was parked up in the compound. In the yard we saw Z Carz Ford minibus LG09 JVX.

Z Carz LG09 JVX in Longton

We turned around and we headed back onto the A50. We went Westwards. At Heron Cross we came off the A50 before going onto Blurton Road. We ran through Blurton and right onto Church Road before we turned right onto Beaconsfield Drive. We got home around 19:00. For a late tea Matthew had bangers and mash with carrots followed by jam filled shortbread biscuit. Matthew then chilled out on his computer until 00:00... Mark