Trip to EATM Rally 28-09-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
35291	Carlton Coalville, Co-op	Carlton Coalville, Transport Museum	P&R	First Eastern Counties
1404	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Beccles, Market Square	Special	Eastern National
LDV 467F	Beccles, Market Square	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Special	Royal Blue
RT 3125	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Lowestoft BS	Special	London Country
RM 613	Lowestoft BS	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Special	London Transport
260	Carlton Coalville, Chapel Road	Carlton Coalville, Chapel Road	Special	London Transport
RM 613	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Lowestoft BS	Special	London Transport
36192	Lowestoft BS	Gorleston-on-Sea, School Lane	X11	First Eastern Counties

Today was the second full day of our weekend away in East Anglia. Yesterday we stumbled upon the Easr Anglia Transort Museum LOndon Transport weekend. It was very busy the day before wo we vowed to come back again today and give it another go. Research for today's trip was to check the weather. The forecast was for cloudy with some unshine and a chance of a shower around 18:00. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. Matthew got up at 09:00 and had toast for breakfast. We got ready and we went out and got in the car just after 10:00. We set off out of the camp site onto Beach Road and we turned left onto Scratby Road. We passed a building site on the left hand side and we ran forwards onto Jack Chase Way. We ran forwards onto the A149 and we ran to the edge of Great Yarmouth. We 3xxxx at the bus garage. We turned right onto the A47 and we followed the A47 to the West of Gorleston-on-Sea and down past the hosipital We turned right onto the B1375 and we headed Westwards. We ran through Normanston and we joined the A146. We ran past Oulton Broad North railway station and Oulton Broad South and we turned left onto Colmer Road. We continued onto Elm Tree Road and we ran forwards onto the A12. We turned sharp right onto Tower Road and we turned left onto Cooke Road. We stopped on the industrial estate at a cafe. We went inside and sat down, Matthew had a full English Breakfast washed down with a bottle of Orange Juice. When we had finished eat we set off to the Co-op so we could do the park and ride bus to the museum. We got in the car and we turned left onto Tower Road. We turned left onto the A12 and we ran forwards onto Elm Tree Road. We turned left onto Ashburnham Way and we ran for about 1/2 mile before turning into the car park. We said goodbye to mum and we walked over to the bus stop outside of Co-op. We waited for around 10 minutes and we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Eastern Counties 35291 on the P&R service.

First Eastern Counties 35290 in Carlton Coalville

We got on the free P&R shuttle and we went upstairs and sat down. A short time later the bus set off along Ashburnham Way and we ran forwards onto Hollow Grove Way. We turned left onto the A146 and ran forwards onto the Southbound A1145. We continued onto Chapel Road and e stopped outside of the gates of the museum. We crossed over the road and we queued up to get into the museum. We paid to get in and we had a quick look around the museum. We walked around to the back of the site and we saw Selkent VLT9 parked up.

Selkent VLT9 in the EATM

We went back outside and we saw they were moving buses around about to do a run out. The next bus to go out was the 11:30 to Beccles. We stood at the bus stop and we saw the bus approaching. We saw it was Eastern National 1404 on a special service to Beccles.

Eastern National 1404 in the EATM

We got on the bus and as the bus was nearly empty, Matthew took a picture of Eastern National 1404 before we sat down towards the middle.

Inside Eastern National 1404

When it time to go we set off out of the site and we turned left onto Chapel Road. We ran forwards onto the A1145 and we turned left onto the A146. About 1/3 of the way to Beccles we pulled over into a bus stop to wai for another bus that was following us to Beccles. After a short wait we continued the Beccles. We turned left onto George Westwood Way. Because of a soapbox derby there were road closure in the town centre. We turned right onto Common Lane North and we entered town through some very narrow street. We stopped in the market square. We got off the bus and Matthew took another picture of Eastern National 1404 before it returned to the mudeum.

Eastern National 1404 in Beccles

The other bus pulled along side and we saw it was Royal Blue LDV 467F on a special service to the museum.

Royal Blue LDV 467F in Beccles

We got on the bus and we saw down towards the back. We set off out of the market square and we headed back onto George Westwood Way. We turned right onto the A146 and we ran fast for several miles. We turned right onto the A1145 and we ran forwards onto Chapel Road. We got up and got off the bus and Matthew got another picture of Royal Blue LDV 467F.

Royal Blue LDV 467F in the EATM

We decided to do another bus straight away as there was a bus to Lowestoft due. A short time later the bus pulled onto the stop and we saw it was London Country RT 3125 on a Lowestoft service. it waWe got on the bus and we went upstairs and we sat down. We set off out of the museum and we saw First Eastern Counties 35291 on the park and ride shuttle of the museum. We set off out of the museum site and we turned left onto Chapel Road and we ran forwards onto the A1145. We ran forwards onto the A146 and we ran up to Oulton Broad South railway station. We turned right onto Victoria Road and we ran forwards onto Waveney Drive. We ran forwards onto the A12 and continued onto Horn Hill. We ran forwards onto Belvedere Road and we joined the A47. We turned left and we stopped at Lowestoft railway station. After the stop we ran North up Katwijk Way and we turned right onto Gordon Road where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew got another picture of London Country RT 3125 before it returned to the museum.

London Country RT 3125 in Lowestoft bus station

Once off the we headed to the pub. We walked along Gordon Road and left onto the High Street. We stopped at the pub and Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew had a glass of Coke and when we had finished we walked back down the High Street. We headed back to the bus station and we looked for some to catch out. Whilst there we saw First Eastern Counties 44532 on #102 Lowestoft circular.

First Eastern Counties 44532 in Lowestoft bus station

We waited for the next bus back to the museum. A short time later we saw the bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was London Transport RM 613 on a service to the museum.

London Transport RM 613 in Lowestoft bus station

We got on the bus and we sat down in the lower deck. We set off out of the bus station and we ran down to the A47. We headed Southwards and we ran forwards onto the B1532. We ran South past the pier and the South Beach and we continued out of town. We turned right onto Bloodmore Road and left onto the B1145. We turned left onto Chapel Road and we entered the site of the East Anglia Transport Museum where we got up and got off the bus. We headed into the museum again and Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we walked to the trolley bus stop to see what we could catch. As we got closer we saw that next trolleybus to depart was London Transport 260.

London Transport 260 in the EATM

We got on the trolleybus and we sat at the fron of the bus and opened the front windows. After the tram departed we set off along the main street and we turned right and we ran around the site in a clockwise direction 3 times. When we got back we ran clockwise around the turning circle and pulled up behind another trolleybus. We got off the trolleybus and we got on London Transport tram 1858 and we went upstairs and sat down. We set along the main street and we ran to the Southern terminus. The driver changed and and we ran back to the Chapel Road terminus. We had a short break and We went around the site and took more pictures. We walked around the site and we photograph the trolleybuses in the shed and then we had a break. We decided to stop for a late dinner. We had pie, mash and gravy from a food truck. Afterwards we had a look at the milk floats and we headed up to the Narrow gauge railway. The locolmotive in operation today was Simplex diesel Thorpeness We got on the train and we ran to the Mutford Thorpe terminus. The locomotive ran around the carriage and we set off back to the Chapel Road Terminus. We got off the train and we waited for the locomotive to run around the train to get a picture. We head back to the tram terminal and we spot that Sheffield 513 was about to work so we got on the tram amd we sat upstairs at the back. We set along the main street and we ran to the Southern terminus. The driver changed and and we ran back to the Chapel Road terminus and we saw London Transport trolleybus 1521. We decided to get a drink but the cafe had closed. It was bearly time for the last bus back to Lowestoft, so we sat on a bench outside and Matthew had a can of Cherry Coke from out of the trip bag. Whilst we waited for our bus Matthew went over to get a picture of London Transport BL45.

London Transport BL45 in the EATM

We saw Eastern National 1404 depart on the last bus to Beccles and a few minutes later our bus came onto the stand. As it pulled onto the stand we saw it was London Transport RM 613. We got on the bus and we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the museum and we saw First Eastern Counties 35291 on the park and ride shuttle of the museum. We set off out of the museum site and we turned left onto Chapel Road and we ran forwards onto the A1145. We ran forwards onto the A146 and we ran up to Oulton Broad South railway station. We turned right onto Victoria Road and we ran forwards onto Waveney Drive. We ran forwards onto the A12 and continued onto Horn Hill. We ran forwards onto Belvedere Road and we joined the A47. We turned left and we stopped at Lowestoft railway station. After the stop we ran North up Katwijk Way and we turned right onto Gordon Road where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew got another picture of London Transport RM 613 before it returned to the museum.

London Transport RM 613 in Lowestoft bus station

We decided to get supplies before caught the next bus. We set off along Gordon Road and we turned right onto High Street. We stopped at Tesco and we got a meal deal. Matthew shared his Twirl with me and uncle Dave and afterwards we had a can of Coke. We sat on a becnh outside the YMCA and Matthew drank his can. When we had finished we set off up High Street and we turned left onto Gordon Road and we stopped at the bus station. We saw First Eastern Counties 36191 running empty. We walked into the bus station and bus was already loading. As ew got closer we saw it was First Eastern Counties 36192 on a X1 to Norwich.

First Eastern Counties 36192 in Lowestoft bus station

We got on the bus and we bought singles to Gorleston at £3 each before we went upstairs. The top deck was empty so Matthew took a picture inside of First Eastern Counties 36192 before we sat down.

Inside First Eastern Counties 36192

We set off out of the bus station and we turned right onto Gordon Road. We turned left onto the A47 and we ran Northwards out of town. At the Northern edge of the town centre we turned right into the retail park and after a brief stop we did a u-turn at the next roundabout and we re-joined the Northbound A47. We ran for several miles and we turned into the junction for Hopton-on-Sea. We stopped at a bus stop and we turned aroound and headed back onto the A47. We continued for another couple of miles and we turned left into James Paget hospital. After a brief circuit around the hospital and a stop we rejoined the Northbound A47. We turned left onto Brasenose Avenue and we passed a new build site. We turned right onto Hertford Way and we turned left onto Magdalen Way. We turned right onto Church Lane and we crossed over the A47 and we stopped at some traffic light as there was roadworks on a roundabout. We ran into Gorleston and we turned left onto the High Street. We went a couple of stops North and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we crossed over School Lane and we went into the car park to meet up with mum. We got in the car and we set off up the High Street. We turned right onto the A47 and we ran to the edge of Great Yarmouth. We turned left onto the A149 and we headed Northwards. We passed the bus garage and we saw First Eastern Counties 37562 was parked up outside the depot. We continued Northwards past the stadium and was saw Dolphin REZ 3371 parked up. We continued North up the A149 and we ran forwatfs onto Jack Chase Way. We ran forwards onto Scratby Road. We turned right onto Beach Road and we stopped at the premier shop. Matthew picked up a bottle of Dr Pepper and chocolate bar. We had a looked at the goats in the garden centre. We got back into the car and we set off along Beach Road and we turned right into the site. We parked up and went into the Chalet. We did some of the Blog and Matthew had a ham sandwich folled by a slice of coconut cake. We uploaded pictures and Matthew watched some YouTube. Matthew had his medication then had a shower. We continued working on the Blog and we went to bed around 00:00... Mark.

Trip to Lowestoft / Norwich 27-09-2025

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
37565	Great Yarmouth, Market Gates	Lowestoft BS	1	First Eastern Counties
RTL 1163	Lowestoft BS	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Special	London Transport
RM 613	EATM, Carlton Coalville	North Beach	Special	London Transport
RM 613	North Beach	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Special	London Transport
RF 626	EATM, Carlton Coalville	Lowestoft BS	Special	London Transport
37711	Lowestoft BS	Norwich BS	X2	First Eastern Counties
35671	Norwich BS	Great Yarmouth, Market Gates	X1	First Eastern Counties
36287	Great Yarmouth, Market Gates	Caister, Police Station	1A	First Eastern Counties
36286	Caister, Police Station	Gorleston-on-Sea, School Lane	8	First Eastern Counties

Today was the first full day of our stay in Esat Anglia. Matthew woke up at 08:00 and had his medication. Matthew got up around 09:00 and had toast for breakfast. We got ready to go out and just after 10:00 we got in the car and we set off to Great Yarmouth. We left the camp site and we stopped at the garden centre to pick up a parcel. We turned left onto Scratby Road and we ran forwards onto Jack Chase Way. We ran forwards onto the A149 and we headed into Great Yarmouth. We ran forwards onto North Quay and we veered left onto Regent Street. We turned left onto Howards Street South and we parked up at the car park. We walked along Austin Row and onto Market Place We continued onto Theatre Plain and we turned right onto Regent Road. We went into the bus station area and we stopped at the cafe. Matthew had a full English breakfast washed down with a glass of Irn Bru. When we had finished eating Matthew went to the toilet. We said goodbye to mum and we had a look around to see what we might catch. We saw First Eastern Counties 33819 on a X1 to Lowestoft.

First Eastern Counties 33819 in Great Yarmouth

We saw First Eastern Counties 37579 on X1 to Norwich. We turned this down as we saw another bus approaching. As it gt closer we saw it was First Eastern Counties 37565 on a #1 to Lowestoft.

First Eastern Counties 37565 in Great Yarmouth

We got on the bus and we booked a Explorer Hi5 Day ticket at £14 before we went upstairs and sat down. We turned ran forwards onto Market Gates and we continued Southwards. We continued onto Alexandra Road and we crossed KIng Street onto Yarmouth Way. We turned right onto South Quay and we turned left onto the A1243. We turned left onto Southown Road and we headed towards Gorleston. We briefly joined Beccles Road and we turned left onto High Road past the former Barlcays bank which is being converted into shops and flats. We ran forwards onto High Street and into the centre of Gorleston. We continued Southwards and onto Lowestoft Road. We continued onto Victoria Road and we turned left onto Park Road. We turned right onto Marine Parade and right onto Bridge Street. We turned left onto the A47 and we turned right into Paget James hospital. We ran around the car park and we turned right on to the A47. We followed the road Southwards for a few miles and we turned left onto Station Road. We ran through Hopton and we turned right onto Coast Road. We headed towards Corton and we turned left onto Church Lane. We turned right onto Station Road and we turned right onto the B1385. We headed South down the A47 and we turned left into the retail park. After turning around at the roundabout we re-joined the A47. We ran to the North edge of town and we turned right onto St Peter's Street. We turned left onto Katwijk Way and we turned right into Gordon Road and into the bus station where we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we took a few pictures. We saw First Eastern Counties 37274 on a X22 to Norwich.

First Eastern Counties 37274 in Lowestoft bus station

As we were wondering what to do next we saw a vintage bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was preserved London Transport RTL 1163 on a shuttle service to Carlton Coalville.

London Transport RTL 1163 in Lowestoft bus station

We asked the conductor if we could ride on the bus and she confirmed it was a free shuttle to Carlton Coalville as there was a London Transport even going on this weekend at the East Anglia Transport Museum. We got on the bus and we sat down in the lower deck. We set off out of the bus station and we ran down to the A47. We headed Southwards and we ran forwards onto the B1532. We ran South past the pier and the South Beach and we continued out of town. We turned right onto Bloodmore Road and left onto the B1145. We turned left onto Chapel Road and we entered the site of the East Anglia Transport Museum where we got up and got off the bus. We considered going into the museum, but the queue to get in was around the block, so we decided to come back tomorrow for the museum. Whilst we were considering what to do we saw another bus come on stand. As it got closer we saw it was London Transport RM 613 on a shuttle to Gunton Cliff.

London Transport RM 613 in Carlton Coalville

We got on the back of the bus and we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out of the museum and we turned left onto Chapel Road and we ran forwards onto the A1145. We continued onto the A146 and we ran North to Oulton Broad South railway station. We continued past Oulton Broad North railway station and we ran forwards onto the A1144. We ran Northwards up the A47 and we turned right onto Corton Road. We turned right onto Links Road and we turned right onto Gunton Cliff. The bus top briefly for a photo stop and we thought it would head back to Lowestoft bus station. It turned out not to be going to the bus station and we headed back to the Museum! We set off along Gunton Cliff and we we continued onto North Parade. We headed Southwards down the A47. We ran to the North edge of town and we turned right onto St Peter's Street. We turned left onto Katwijk Way and we bypassed the town centre. We turned right onto Denmark Road and we turnd left onto the A12 and we crossed over the inner harbour. We turned right onto Waveney Drive and we continued onto Victoria Road. We joined the A146 and we headed Southwards. We ran forwards onto the A1145 and forwards onto Chapel Road and back to the museum. We got of the bus and we saw another bus move onto the bus stop. As we got closer we saw it was London Transport RF 626 on a Lowestoft Shuttle.

London Transport RF 626 in Carlton Coalville

We got on the bus and we sat down towards the back of the bus. We set off out of the museum and we saw First Eastern Counties 35291 on the park and ride shuttle of the museum. We set off out of the museum site and we turned left onto Chapel Road and we ran forwards onto the A1145. We ran forwards onto the A146 and we ran up to Oulton Broad South railway station. We turned right onto Victoria Road and we ran forwards onto Waveney Drive. We ran forwards onto the A12 and continued onto Horn Hill. We ran forwards onto Belvedere Road and we joined the A47. We turned left and we stopped at Lowestoft railway station. After the stop we ran North up Katwijk Way and we turned right onto Gordon Road where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew got another picture of London Transport RF 626 before it returned to the museum.

London Transport RF 626 in Lowestoft bus station

Once off the we headed to the pub. We walked along Gordon Road and left onto the High Street. We stopped at the pub and Matthew went to the toilet. Matthew had a glass of Coke and when we had finished we walked back down the High Street. We stopped at a Bakery and we bough Sauasge rolls and a slice of cake for later and a bottle of Coke. We headed back to the bus station and we looked for some to catch out. Whilst there we saw First Eastern Counties 44450 on #102 Lowestoft circular.

First Eastern Counties 44450 in Lowestoft bus station

We had a look around the bus station to see what we might catch. A short time later we saw a suitable bus. As we got closer we saw it was First Eastern Counties 37711 on a X2 to Norwich.

First Eastern Counties 37711 in Lowestoft bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Explorer Hi5 Day ticket under the scanner before we sat down towards the back of the bus. The bus set off out of the bus station and we turned right onto Gordon Road. We went around the rouandabout and we turned sharp right onto the Southbound A47. We crossed over the inner harbour before turning left onto the B1532. There were two parrallel road with terrace housing in between them. We ran Southwards down the Eastern of the 2 roads for about 1/2 a mile before the 2 roads merged. We ran through Kirkley and into Pakefield and we turned right onto the B1384. We crossed the roundabout onto Bloodmoor Road and we ran forwards onto Elmtree Road. We turned left onto Ashburnham Road and we headed Westwards. We turned left onto the A146 and we ran fast for a few miles. We turned left onto Lowestoft Road and we ran through Worlingham. We continued onto Ingate and we ran forwards onto Blyburgate and into the centre of Beccles. We ran through Exchange Square and we ran forwards onto Smallgate. We turned left onto Old Market Place and we stopped at a small interchange. Also there were Borderbus 103 on a #580 to Harleston and Simonds YX12 FPY on a #81 ti Diss. We turned right onto Northgate and we turned left onto Bridge Street. We crossed over the river Waveney and we ran forwards Gillingham Dam. We ran forwards onto Loddon Road and through Gillingham and we joined the A146. We ran through Stubbs Green and into Thurton and we headed North Westwards. We ran fast for around 10 miles through Holveston and Bixley and we came to the A47. We crossed under the A47 and we crossed over the River Yare and we turned right onto Martineau Lane. We turned left onto the A147 and we headed into Norwich city centre. We ran past Sainsbury's and we turned right into the bus station. We got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of First Eastern Counties 37711 before it returned to Lowestoft on a X22.

First Eastern Counties 37711 in Norwich bus station

We had a look around the bus station. We saw Simmonds 592 on a PR3 Postwick park and ride service.

Simmonds 592 in Norwich bus station

We headed into the main building and Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards we sat in the waiting area and Matthew had a sausage roll. He also had a piece of Bakewell Tart and a can of orange Fanta. Whilst we ate we saw First Eastern Counties 36903 on an Excel service. We went out ibnto the bus station to take a few picture before we started to head back. We saw Konnect Bus 249 on a #84 to Hempnall Green.

Konnect Bus 249 in Norwich bus station

We waited for a bus back towards Great Yarmouth. A short time later we saw a bus arrive on stand. We saw it was First Eastern Counties 35671 on a X11 to Belton.

First Eastern Counties 35671 in Norwich bus station

We got on the bus and we placed the Hi5 Explorer ticket under the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. We set off out of the bus station and we ran down to Queens Road. We headed out of town along the A147 and we turned right onto Martineau Lane. We turned left onto the A146 and we headed South Eastwards. On the edge of the city we joined the Eastbound A47. We ran fast for around 10 miles and we veered left onto Norwich Road. We called into Acle and we ran through town, rejoining the Eastbound A47. We ran the last 8 or so miles to the edge of Great Yarmouth and we ran into town. We ran forwards onto Fuller's Hill and forward again onto Priory Plain. We ran into the bus station and we got up and got off the bus. Once off the bus we had a look around to see what we could catch. We headed ovew to the WEst side of the bus station. As we got closer we saw it was First Eastern Counties 36287 on a #1A to Markham.

First Eastern Counties 36287 in Great Yarmouth

We got on the bus and we placed the Hi5 Explorer Day tickets under the scanner before we went upstairs and sat down. We turned ran forwards onto Temple Road and onto Priory Plain. We turned right onto Northgate Street and we headed Northwards. We continued onto Caister Road and we stopped near to the bus depot. We saw First Eastern Counties 37069 parked up outside on Staff Bus duties. We continued Northwards up Caister Road and we ran past Yarmouth Stadium where there was stock car racing taking place. We saw white coach 523 CBF. We continued North into Caister and we decided to get up and get off the bus. Once off the bus Matthew took another picture of First Eastern Counties 36287 as it continued towards Markham.

First Eastern Counties 36287 in Caister

We headed to the pub and Matthew usd the toilet. Afterwards we had a glass of Coke. We wen outside and we met up with uncle Dave. We crossed the road and headed to the bus stop. We waited fior a bus towards Gorleston. A short time later we saw a bus approaching. As it got closer we saw it was First Eastern Counties 36286 on a #8 to James Paget Hospital.

First Eastern Counties 36286 in Caister

We got on the bus and we placed the Hi5 Explorer Day tickets under the scanner for the final time today before we went upstairs and sat down. We ran forwards onto High Street and forwards onto Yarmouth Road. We joined the Southbound A149 and we ran past the greyhound stadium. We turned left onto Jellicoe Road and right onto Beatty Road. We turned left onto Barnard Avebue and right onto Sandringham Avenue. We continued Southwards before turning right onto Beaconsfield Road. We turned left onto Northgate Street and we headed Southwards into the town. We veered left onto Fullers Hill and we continued onto Priory Plain. We continued onto Temple Road and we stopped in the Market Gates Interchange for a short while. After a short wait we continued Southwards. We continued onto Alexandra Road and we crossed KIng Street onto Yarmouth Way. We turned right onto South Quay and we turned left onto the A1243. We turned left onto Southown Road and we headed towards Gorleston. We briefly joined Beccles Road and we turned left onto High Road past the former Barlcays bank which is being converted into shops and flats. We ran forwards onto High Street and into the centre of Gorleston. We crossed over the road and we met up with mum. We got in the car and we headed to the chip shop in Caister. We ran up the High Street and we joined Beccles Road and joined the Northbound A47. We ran onto Runham Road and we ran next to the Bure before joining the A149. We ran North past the bus garage and greyhound stadium and we ran forwards onto Yarmouth Road. We stopped in Caister and we picked up the food. We continued onto Norwich Road and we ran forwards to the dual carriage. We had gone too far so we did a u turned and we turned left onto Jack Chase Way. We ran forwards onto Scratby Road and we turned right onto Beach Road. e stopped at the caravan parked and we parked up by the chalet. We wen inside and Matthew had his food. matthew had sausage chips and gravy washed down with a bottle of dandelion & burdock. We wrote some of the Blog, We uploaded some pictures and we wrote an e-mail. later on Matthew had a Gu cheesecake and had his medication. Matthew settled to bed around 00:30... Mark

Trip to Wythall bus running day 17-06-2023

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
BL88	Wythall	Maypole	Charter	London Transport
BL88	Maypole	Wythall	Charter	London Transport
RF146	Wythall	Kings Heath	Charter	London Transport
RF146	Kings Heath	Wythall	Charter	London Transport
WVL220	Wythall	Kings Heath	Charter	London Central
RM2213	Kings Heath	Wythall	Charter	London Transport
OM5	Wythall	Maypole	Charter	Midland Red
OM5	Maypole	Wythall	Charter	Midland Red

Today Matthew was in the residential unit and he was going out a bus rally, which was being held at Wythall Transport Museum. Matthew got up around 06:00 and had toast and orange juice for breakfast. We went downstairs and We walked onto Temple Street and left onto Christchurch Street. We stopped at the Co-op and Matthew had a bottle of Coke. We got in the car. As we went down to the car and we set off onto Temple Street and we turned left onto Christchurch Street. We turned left onto City Road and we headed down the road into Stoke. We turned left onto the Southbound A500 and we ran down to the motorway. We got onto the Southbound M6 we ran through Staffordshire and the West Midlands down to junction 8. We joined the Southbound M5 and we ran for 80 miles or so down to the M42. As we ran Northwards we saw Chapel End Coaches B4 CEC. At the bottom of the hill we went across the traffic lights onto the A435. We continued through Wythall and we turned left onto Middle Lane. We turned left onto Chapel Lane and we turned right into Severn Way and we ran down to Wythall Transport Museum. As we got to the corner we saw London Transport RML2478.

London Transport RML2478 in Wythall Transport Museum

We parked up the car and we walked over to the museum. Outside we saw London Central double decker WVL220 parked up.

London Central WVL220 in Wythall Transport Museum

Another vehicle seen was Midland Red 1902, which we have been on a few times at other rallies.

Midland Red 1902 in Wythall Transport Museum

We walked along the road outside of the museum looking at buses. We saw Cheltenham & District Bristol single decker 1000 parked here.

Cheltenham & District 1000 in Wythall Transport Museum

We walked back to the shed to see what was parked inside. We saw West Midlands double decker 4613 parked by the door.

WM 4613 in Wythall Transport Museum

We went inside and Matthew went to the toilet. Afterwards saw Midland Red single decker 5656 parked up inside.

Midland Red 5656 in Wythall Transport Museum

We went outside to get something to eat. For dinner Matthew had a burger and egg from the burger van. Once we had brought the burger to the to eat it. Matthew washed down his burger with a bottle of Coke. After eating the food we went back into the shed to look at buses. We saw West Midlands single decker 1472 parked up.

WM 1472 in Wythall Transport Museum

We continued around the museum. Matthew sat in a fire engine and afterwards we to see a collection of milk floats. He sat in the cab and had his picture taken. We decided it was time to go out and ride on one of the bused. We went outside and waited at the stop. A short time later we saw it was London Transport BL88 on a service to Maypole.

London Transport BL88 in Wythall Transport Museum

We got on the bus and we sat down towards the back. We set off along Severn Way and at the roundabout we turned right onto Chapel Lane. We turned left onto the A435 and we turned right into Station Road and we ran Eastwards out of town along Norton Lane. We continued North through Tidbury Green and Whitlock's End. We followed the road around onto Tilehouse Lane and we right onto Haslucks Green Road and we carried on into Shirley. We turned left into Green Lane and we ran Eastwards out of town along Aqueduct Road. We turned left onto High Street and we ran forwards onto Maypole Lane and we ran through Maypole. We ran forwards onto Alcester Road South and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road. We ran through Wythall and we crossed over the A435. We turned right onto Watery Lane and we turned right onto the A435. We turned left onto Hill Lane and we turned right onto Chapel Lane and we turned left into Severn Way and we returned to the museum car park. Once off the bus we went inside and Matthew used the toilet. We waited around until it was time for the next bus to depart. We waited at the stop and the bus pulled up. We saw it was London Transport RF146 on a service to Kings Heath.

London Transport RF146 in Wythall Transport Museum

We got on the bus and we sat down towards the back. We set off along Severn Way and at the roundabout we turned right onto Chapel Lane. We turned left onto the A435 and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road South and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road. We travelled through Maypole and over Druids Heath to Alcester Lane's End where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of London Transport RF146 before it carried on back to Wythall.

London Transport RF146 in Kings Heath

We got back on the bus and we sat down towards the back. We set off along the A435 and we ran down through Druids Heath and into Maypole. We ran forwards onto Alcester Road South and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road. We ran through Wythall and we crossed over the A435. We turned right onto Watery Lane and we turned right onto the A435. We turned left onto Hill Lane and we turned right onto Chapel Lane and we turned left into Severn Way and we returned to the museum car park. Once off the bus Matthew went to the toilet. We went outside to wait for the next bus. We saw it was London Central WVL220 on a service to Kings Heath. We got on the bus and we went upstairs and sat down. We set off along Severn Way and at the roundabout we turned right onto Chapel Lane. We turned left onto the A435 and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road South and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road. We travelled through Maypole and over Druids Heath to Alcester Lane's End where we got up and got off the bus. Matthew took another picture of London Central WVL220 before it carried on back to Wythall.

London Central WVL220 in Kings Heath

As we got closer we saw it was London Transport RM2213.

London Transport RM2213 in Kings Heath

Whilst we ate we saw Rotala Diamond 40827 on a #34 to Birmingham.

Rotala Diamond 40827 in Kings Heath

We got on the bus and we went upstairs and sat down. We set off along the A435 and we ran down through Druids Heath and into Maypole. We ran forwards onto Alcester Road South and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road. We ran through Wythall and we crossed over the A435. We turned right onto Watery Lane and we turned right onto the A435. We turned left onto Hill Lane and we turned right onto Chapel Lane and we turned left into Severn Way and we returned to the museum car park. Once off the bus we had a look around to see what we could see. We saw PPH coach C425 WFH parked up outside.

PPH C425 WFH in Wythall Transport Museum

Matthew sat in the driver's seat of one of the half cab buses. Afterwards we went to the cafe and Matthew had a Twister lolly. THere was rime for one more ride before we went back to Fenton. We waited at the stop for the next service. We saw Midland Red OM5 on a service to Maypole.

Midland Red OM5 in Wythall Transport Museum

We got on the bus and we sat down towards the back. We set off along Severn Way and at the roundabout we turned right onto Chapel Lane. We turned left onto the A435 and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road South and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road. We travelled through Maypole before doing a U turn between Sainsbury's and going up Alcester Road South and we ran forwards onto Alcester Road. We ran through Wythall and we crossed over the A435. We turned right onto Watery Lane and we turned right onto the A435. We turned left onto Hill Lane and we turned right onto Chapel Lane and we turned left into Severn Way and we returned to the museum car park. Once off the bus. Matthew went to the toilet before we left and we got into the car. We set off out of the site onto Severn Way and we turned Left onto Capel Lane. We turned right onto Middle Lane and right onto the Southbound A435. We turned right onto the Westbound M42. We ran to junction 20 and we turned right onto the Northbound M5. We ran through the Midlands for around 80 miles and we joined the Northbound M6. We ran along the M6 through the West Midlands and Staffordshire as far as junction 15 where we cam off onto the A500. We turned right onto City Road and we ran up the hill into Fenton. We turned right into Smithpool Road. We turned left Temple Street and back to the residential unit. Matthew went up to his room to chill out and use his computer. For tea Matthew had Sausage and chips followed by cake. Matthew used his computer and watched music videos on the television. Later on Matthew had a bath and then had toast for supper. He then chilled out in his room until bedtime around 23:00... Mark

Trip to the POPS rally 13-05-2012

Bus	From	To	Service	Operator
198	Wedgwood	Longton BS	Special	PMT
198	Longton BS	Wedgwood	Special	PMT
62	Wedgwood	Trentham Gardens	Special	Stratford Blue
RM467	Trentham Gardens	Wedgwood	Special	London Transport
55	Wedgwood	Barlaston Green	Special	Bournemouth
A506 FSS	Barlaston Green	Wedgwood	Special	Northern Scottish
10	Wedgwood	Stone	Special	Turner's
10	Stone	Wedgwood	Special	Turner's

Today was the POPS rally, highlight of the North Staffordshire bus calender! We had always planned on being at this event, the Wardle double decker running day was an added bonus. I opened Matthew curtains around 09:00 revealing another fine sunny day. Matthew got up around 10:00 and we were ready just before 11:00. we picked up uncle Dave and then drove onto Wedgwood. When we arrived we brought a program and a local fleet list book. The first hour or so was spent looking at a few of the buses and Matthew was spending his money on books, DVD's and photos. Just before 12:00 we decided to catch a bus The Midland Red Olympian EEH 902Y was heading to Stone, and we just missed it. However behind that was PMT 198 on a mystery tour. The driver said it was going to take approximately 30 minutes and as we have yet to have this bus we decided to do it. We got on required 198 and off we went. the bus took the usual route to the A5035 then turned towards Trentham. We turned at Magdalen Road and then headed through Blurton along Beaconsfield Drive and onto Blurton Road. The bus actually went within a few hundred yards of our house! We then turned up Longton Hall Road and we guessed at this point it was probably going to the transport interchange at Longton. Sure enough we arrived in Longton and the driver said we could jump out and take a picture or two before returning. So we jumped out and did just that.

Mystery destination. PMT 198 in Longton

After getting back on, we rode back via Longton Hall Road, Blurton Road, Church Street, Trentham Road and back to Wedgwood. on the retun journey we worked out could either do required PMT 604 to Hanley (12:30) for dinner or we could required Routemaster RM467 to Trentham (12:35) for dinner. As we were approaching time was passing at it had gone 12:30, We passed 604 at the site entrance. As we turn toward the arrivals stop, we could see the Routemaster ready for departure. We got off and took a picture of PMT 198.

PMT 198 back at Wedgwood

By the time we got to the stop the bus had gone. as there was a small gap, Everyone sat down near the stop whilst i took the shopping back to the car. When I got back Straford blue 62 was at the depart stop. I look at the timetable and realised that this was the next Trentham. So I asked Matthew if he wanted to do this and he said yes. He took a quick shot of this required bus before we jumped on.

Statford Blue 62 at Wedgwood

We sat down over the offside rear axle and off we went. This is a very nice bus and was well filled with enthusiasts. This year the Trentham service was running to the drop off point for coaches by the retail village, as opposed to the old gate. This take a good mile off the journey as the return services used to have to run to Hanford to turn back to Wedgwood. I think if this continues it could be a good thing. It will save on fuel costs plus possibly get a few more passenger visit the event who have just come to Trentham for shopping. The buses when entering the site go around the outside of the car park before heading back to the coach drop off point. Straford 62 when along passed the car park and then turned back. As it turned it clipped the curb and made a loud bang as it dropped off. There then came a loud scraping noise from under the off side rear axle. I thought that perhaps it had tipped the curbstone and then dragged it along under the bus. When we stopped most people jumped out with a few going to inspect the bus. Matthew got off and took his picture.

62 at Trentham Gardens

As we were taking a few pictures, we heard someone saying that the exhaust had fallen off and was being dragged along. we decided it was time for dinner and a toilet stop. We headed to the riverside dinner and we ordered dinner. Matthew of course want a cake for afters too. I took a picture of him with a very chocolaty face as he tucked into a slice of fudge cake. We then walked back to the coach drop off point to wait for a return service. we photographed a couple of coaches before required RM467 appeared. Matthew got a picture before we boarded.

LT RM467 at Trentham Gardens

We climbed the stairs and we had an enjoyable trip back. It's nice to view the Staffordshire countryside from an elevated position on a double decker bus. As we traveled along, we passed PMT 860. I had looked for it on the timetable, but it wasn't supposed to be working. A closer look at the timetable revealed that it must have worked the 14:05 to Trentham, taking over from Stratford blue 62's duties!

RM467 at Wedgwood

When we got back mum went off to do a little birthday present shopping whilst we worked out what we could do. We thought that perhaps 860 would work Stratford Blue 62's next duty, which was the 15:00 to Stone. There was a Barlaston circular at 14:30. We could do this and still be back for 15:00 so we decided that this was going to be the move. the circular was going to be Bournemouth 55 & Northern Scottish A506 FSS. we had been on A506 FSS when it was in Glovers colours, so we decided to do the required Bournemouth bus. If there was a stop in the middle, we could always swap. a few minutes later the 2 buses pulled up on the stop. we boarded Bournemouth 55 and off we went. We headed out towards rough close and then swung back into Barlaston, turning when we reached the village green pointing back towards Wedgwood. The buses did stop to allow for pictures and to allow passengers to swap between buses if desired. Matthew got a picture of Bournemouth 55.

Bournemouth 55 at Barlason Green

He took another one for good measure...

Bournemouth 55 at Barlason Green

Then he took one of Northern Scottish A506 FSS before we boarded it for the return journey.

Northern Scottish A506 FSS at Barlason Green

The journey back was down a narrow country lane that has speed bumps, is very dark due to being tree lined and is the same road in which we spun the car on ice back in February. The buses stopped under the tree for an addition driver change. Our bus was then driven past Bournemouth 55 for a photo on the same curve where we had spun the car. The buses then swapped over there order again and we drove back to Wedgwood

A506 FSS at Wedgwood

When we got back it was around 14:50 so we had a short wait for the Stone service. Matthew went on a few buses and took pictures before we saw Turners 10 pull up on stop. We asked the driver if this was going to Stone and it was. there was slight disappointment that it wasn't PMT 860, but it was nice to ride on this double decker again. The route out was via Trentham and the A34. turning into Stone from the roundabout just South of the town centre. There was a quick stop and we got off to take a picture.

Turner's 10 in Stone

We boarded the bus and after a minute or two we set off back North. The return journey was via the A520. we passed through Lightwood before turning by The New Florence towards Dresden. We then took the A5035 back to Blurton before turning left to wedgwood. When we got back Matthew took a further picture of this bus.

10 back at Wedgwood Stone

Back at Wedgwood buses were starting to leave and so we headed back to the car. As we drove uncle Dave back we put the Stoke match on the radio. Stoke were losing 1-2 to Bolton but Stoke drew level after Peter Crouch was allegedly brought down by Bogdan. Walter leveled from the spot and that is how the match ended. Bolton were relegated. We had got home at around 16:30. Matthew started to watch his new DVD's whilst I listened to the end of the match. And that is how this enjoyable but tiring weekend finished...Mark.