My Manchester

New colours

2012-02-14T12:27:00.000Z

Working in town most of this week and i just noticed the new colours for First Manchester. From what i read each area will have it's own colour scheme. Not everyone likes it though. The First inspector on Oldham street today called it naff.

Ashton by pass

2012-02-06T13:15:00.000Z

This is the bus diversion map whilst the roads are being finished off for the by-pass. It's all a bit complicated but means all stops get serviced. Especially the ones outside the market. Everything is coming in on time at the moment so it's not been too bad.

Popular place.

2012-02-06T13:08:00.001Z

There must have been a sale on this morning at Droylsden post office. Or so you would think. This lot were waiting for it to open at 8am as i drove past on the way to work. I would rather sit at home than stand in the cold. Unless they just think all the money will be gone if they get there late.

Spot the difference

2012-02-06T10:57:00.000Z

Something different about this solo. Any ideas?

Bit nippy

2012-02-03T11:29:00.000Z

It might look like a nice spring morning but it's not. It's bitterly cold out and i have numb toes to prove it lol. Nice morning upto now in Ashton everything running well apart from a few little things. The new bypass doesn't seem to be causing any problems in fact i would say wellington road is quieter at the moment. Had a nice day out checking tickets yesterday. Caught a few fare dodgers yesterday which is always nice and the rain held off so we didn't get drenched. Off all weekend so here's hoping for a nice trouble free afternoon.

Bad Driving?

2012-01-30T11:01:00.001Z

Was working yesterday and got called to this outside Piccadilly station.
Looks like a council parking enforcement truck had a bit of a run in with a
cyclist. You can still see the bike trapped underneath the wagon. Luckily
there were only minor injuries but it sure brings home the risks of cycling
around the city centre. This could have been a whole lot worse.

It was a nice duty though yesterday which finished at 1130pm which I don't
mind because I get all day to myself before work. I have never been one to
shy away from late duties.

Oddly enough I have another today which suits me fine. Make your own mind up
who was in the wrong in this accident.

Back to normal!

2012-01-25T20:50:00.000Z

Been a bit busy today so this is the only chance i got to take a picture of a Bluebird bus. Nice to get back to work after such a long break. Felt very refreshed. Even took time out to reclaim a television that some scroat decided to walk out of Argos with. He was never going to get far with it lol.
Looks like all the replacement Speedwell services are going well and i even heard reports that the 343 was being well accepted by it's passengers. Thats probably the only one i would like to keep but the problem, as with a lot of these tendered services is that they are shared and i have made it clear previously that this not how services should be run. It's unfair on the passengers. Makes me wonder if the aim is ensure more System 1 weekly passes are purchased rather than operators own weekly tickets.
Sunday and Monday are going to be very trying days in the town centre as the new By-pass opens and Penny Meadow is shut. from what i read today the diversion is a little complicated and will be done in stages over the next few weeks to ensure buses get as close to the market as possible. Personally i would just bring them in the back way and alight everyone in the bus station but thats not to be.
Apart from that not much else going on. everything just where i left it before i started my holidays.

Speedwell GONE!

2012-01-18T19:57:00.000Z

It's always sad to see a bus company go under. But whats even worse is when you see it coming from a mile off. Only a few days ago Speedwell Bus was told they were going to lose there licence from the end of March and as predicted within a week they have decided to cease trading forcing TfGM to find alternative operators for the routes.
Now i don't know all of the routes they do but i think everything will be covered.

Today i noticed a Bluebird 59 plate Solo on the 396 service and i believe that from tomorrow all the 202 journeys and the weekday 343 will be run by Stagecoach out of Ashton depot. this is at least until April, when i assume tendors will be submitted by whoever wants to run them.

There are a few Glossop schools being covered too, these will be done by Magic coloured Volvo Olympians. The 202 will be run with Darts and there will be 3 man buses covering the 343 service.
It's sad that driver have been made redundant and i wish them all the best in finding work with other companies.
I'm still off this week and back in work next Wednesday so not got too much info on the other routes. Only stuff i am reading on Facebook and by chatting with people i work with.

Picture accredited to Stuart Valentine

Mumps station

2012-01-10T17:07:00.000Z

It's hardly the old station which looked a bit more substantial than this one but this is the new Mumps tram stop. Well thats until the tram comes through the town centre. Been for a bike ride today to have a look at how the works are coming along. I was hoping to see some trams on test but no luck today. I ended up riding down the Bridgewater canal a little bit before heading back. It was a tough ride because of injury a few weeks ago but hoping to get out more very soon. Have added a few pics i took whilst i was out. Including a drained Ashton canal near to Edge lane. Looks like they are installing new lock doors but i could be wrong.

Time out

2012-01-08T17:10:00.001Z

Yesterday was the first day of my holidays. Found this as i was heading into Oldham. This is the old warehouse on Park road. It was listed but sadly the building became unsafe so they has started pulling it down today. Off for 19 days so i'm hoping for some days out on my bike weather depending of course.

Happy new year.

2012-01-02T13:25:00.000Z

First post of 2012. I took this picture on Thursday at Glossop. I was doing a spot of driving as overtime and ended up at the new terminus in Glossop. I can't believe it took so long to send us this was. It's so much easier. Today however i'm in Piccadilly working. Got a three week break at the end of this week so thought working the bank holiday should be easy enough. And it is. Manchester is pretty quiet today. Finish at 4 so not too bad. Apart from that not much else to report. Back in Ashton most this week. I'll just be glad to see things back to normal.

Off out.

2011-12-23T23:39:00.000Z

I just want to start by saying I appreciate the comment of anon on a previous post. It's the kind of comment that makes me want to keep blogging. He is clearly well upto date with movements within management and cares about the company he works for. And i agree! . I must apologise if i sounded a little biased about the fare increase. Lets not forget i wouldn't be able to comment in a negative way or would want to if it was stagecoach. So lets not also forget that first do run very quality services. Including the one i am on now. I'm on the last 83 to Manchester which is the 2325 from oldham. Always turns up and it's free. Lucky me. I can sit here chuckling away at people paying. Anyway. Nice to see some great constructive comments on something i do to pass some time. I'm off now until the 28th so Happy Christmas and see you all soon. X

New cleaning routine

2011-12-16T13:47:00.000Z

This is the new way we are cleaning the tops of the buses. Just so they look nice from the flats above the bus station.

FARE INCREASE

2011-12-15T19:42:00.001Z

This Huddersfield bus was in oldham today on the 184. Thought it different as they normally run double deckers. Bad news though for First bus passengers. fares are on the rise from January the 2nd. Day tickets will be 4.50 monthly will be 59 quid. The 1.90, 2.50 and 3.10 fares will all increase by a massive 30p each. There is more increases but i cannot remember them at the moment. The company is blaming new buses and new ticket machines which are being introduced next year. My opinion is that these rises are a huge insult to the passengers and cannot be justified.

Oh dear

2011-12-12T14:57:00.000Z

Just on a first bus dart running on the 64 and notice this sign on the emergency exit at the back of the bus. Someone should use a spell checker or pay more attention to thier work.

Off out

2011-12-12T11:30:00.000Z

Just heading off out for the day. Luckily the first bus of the day is this very nice old volvo. Old but the engine still sounds as if it just come out of the factory. This is on the 425 to oldham. On the 64 after this. There is method in the madness but i won't bore you with the details. Long weekend off so no work until Wednesday.

Shocking

2011-12-07T09:27:00.000Z

I'm just on a 216 heading to Piccadilly. We were making good progress until we passed Ryecroft hall then all of a sudden long slow moving traffic. I can see 5 buses in the traffic which is not very good and i blame Tameside council. I think there organisation along with help from the pte or whatever they want to call themselves is absolutly disgusting. I feel so sorry for the residents and people who have to use public transport along this route. This service was brilliant before use stupid tram works started and all we hear now is how bad things have become. There is nothing coming the other way but yet we are still sat at temporary lights surrounded by workers who are doing very little. With a bit of luck i might get to piccadilly by lunchtime!

The future?

2011-12-07T07:33:00.000Z

This is something different, Noticed this 219 yesterday with a bit of sparkle on the advert that is on the side. Its got little sparkly leds built into it which is somehow wired into the bus electrics. The advert is for the Trafford centre. I only saw it in the daytime but i bet it looks better at night.
Had a little browse at the service changes which are taking place in January yesterday. Some interesting ones such as 216s being extended to Stamford Park! Will wait till i get the full list before going into it.Off into Piccadilly today again on whats looking like a really poor weather day :(

Something different.

2011-12-04T19:02:00.000Z

This East midlands dart called into Piccadilly today after a day at the museum of transport. Certainly made a few people turn as it passed through. Had an entertaining day today. Ended up watching a march head along Wilmslow road for a few hours. It moved very slowly and caused a bit of disruption but nothing to bad.

Bit miserable

2011-12-04T10:43:00.000Z

Lucky me. Stood in Piccadilly on this horrid wet Sunday. Not much going on yet. Plenty of shoppers about though. Seems nothing keeps them in. Here till 6 so well wrapped up. Does make a nice change though being in town.

Wow!

2011-12-02T05:49:00.000Z

I've not been down to Hyde road for a few weeks and was amazed to see this monster in the back car part. It's the new mast for our radio system which we are getting in the new year. Should hopefully make contacting the buses a little easier. It's hard to show how big this thing really is but it does cause a creek in the neck looking up at it.

Out with the old

2011-11-30T18:31:00.000Z

Called into the depot at Ashton this morning and found these old darts waiting to be sent to either bus heaven or anywhere that wants to buy them. They are 33084, 33091 and 34054. Not sure where or when they are going but they won't be service again around these parts. Been in the bus station all day which was getting a bit boring with the kids being off . Well that was until everyone decided to go shopping in Manchester. Good day today in all. Nothing was affected by the tfgm striking as far as i'm concerned. On a late tomorrow which is a nice change. Feels like months since i last did a late shift.

Nearly That Time

2011-11-27T09:44:00.000Z

Doing my company boy bit today. No work today so i thought i would share the details of the Christmas services. I'm off on most the days luckily. Back in Ashton tomorrow where hopefully it's a lot better than it wa last week.

Last week we saw the traffic lights on Stockport Road stuck on Red so nothing moved for a while. until someone with a bit of sense turned them off ;) and then the traffic cleared.
And then Friday saw a broken down waggon at the Gunn inn. So every bus from Glossop was very late. Not an ideal day but it kept me busy.

Etihad Tram Stop

2011-11-21T19:47:00.000Z

Here is a look at the new metrolink station at the Etihad stadium. I was interested to see how they were going to cope with ticketless passengers and it seems a very similar situation to Old Trafford tram stop on match days with passengers having to pass through ticket booths rather than the usual pay machines you get at most stations.
Seems well thought out although to get an Ashton bound tram you must cross the line. Can see that being fun when thousands of people come out at once.

New arrival.

2011-11-17T11:50:00.000Z

Not much going on at Ashton this week apart from this next hybrid turning up. It's one of dukinfields new buses and looks very smart indeed. It's the first one with a few more to follow in January i'm told.

New buses

2011-11-03T20:09:00.000Z

Here is one of the hybrids that First manchester have got. I do like the new silver colour. I'm not sure when they are out in service or what routes they are going on. I'm sure the weekly ticket will increase again to pay for them.

Unusual

2011-10-31T17:40:00.000Z

Just noticed this not so old bus on the 389 service. It's an oldham depot bus which comes off Maple school and then does a few trips on here. Unusual to see. The other picture is an optare which wouldn't start and ended up getting dragged to depot by this huge tow truck.

Oops

2011-10-29T17:50:00.000+01:00

Something just doesn't look right with this 216 in Piccadilly yesterday. Not put my finger on it but something seems a little different. Been a crazy couple of days. The works at droylsden are causing us all sorts of issues for the 216s and 7s. Today was made worse because city were playing a home game so the traffic was worse than ever with some buses taking over an hour to get from Piccadilly to Ashton. I really wished they would hurry up with this stupid tram rubbish. Back Monday in Ashton again for more fun and games.

Monday blues

2011-10-24T10:05:00.000+01:00

Just arrived at Chorlton bus station. It's one of our earliest starts and not exactly my favorite. Not enough going on for me and a long way from home. Luckily we can swap our duties just like drivers can but didn't get the chance to on Friday. Not to worry off to owens park later although with it being half term i doubt the excitement will increase. The picture is the police station at chorlton which has now been boarded up. The toilets have also been shut down too so nothing here now apart from a few bus stops.monday morning moans over with. On with the job in hand.

All Gone

2011-10-23T22:32:00.000+01:00

If you saw the smoke then this is whats left of a building that was well alight on Friday evening. I noticed the smoke from the other side of Manchester, and Oldham road was still closed in one direction this morning. I believe First buses are using Rochdale road for the Oldham buses.

Not again!

2011-10-23T08:06:00.000+01:00

Had a nice break from work and back now to find road works have returned onto Great Ancoats street. Well, more like cones have returned. This little lot are doing nothing at all apart from jamming the road up at peak times. The actual works are just before you reach this section so i don't see the point of these. Today i'm in Piccadilly on the early and it's pretty quiet at the moment but as with all derby days i'm sure it will be a busy day.

Ouch

2011-10-13T23:19:00.000+01:00

This was the result of an impact with a car hitting this bus at about 30 mph. It will take a lot to get it fixed but it shows how tough these buses are when they are hit. Am off for a couple of weeks so not many posts and the weather means no bike rides either sadly. I'm back next friday. Not sure how this picture will look, it was sent by a friend at Ashton.

Ashton Metrolink

2011-10-06T06:06:00.000+01:00

This is the new Metrolink station at Ashton. Obviously a long way to go but the foundations have been laid and I'm sure it will start rising from the ground very soon. The track laying is Ashton is cracking on too. Shame it isn't so quick in Droylsden.

Oops

2011-10-04T13:21:00.000+01:00

This dart on a school service run by M travel comes into the bus station every day. Sadly someone didn't check the spelling of it's destination lol. In ashton again today although it's going cooler now so the fleece will be out tomorrow i think.

Another Gem

2011-10-02T22:40:00.000+01:00

This is another Little Gem leaflet from the late 80s. This time the 168. Got loads of these timetables from a friend at work. Still find it so interesting to see what was running then and how things are now.Don't want to overdo it though and bore everyone with them. But since not much happening where i have been thought i would post a few more.

Add caption

These have been supplied by Richard Grenfell who is always interested in any pictures you may have, new or old. He can be emailed directly at dickgrenfell@live.co.uk

Worst bus

2011-09-29T14:32:00.000+01:00

Big thanks to the driver of this 135 bendy bus who thought it would be fun to stop on the 216 stand. I did mention that he would probably have plenty to moan about if we parked two 216s on thier stand. He mumbled something and then moved it.

Nice ride

2011-09-25T19:23:00.000+01:00

was on the 192s in piccadilly today and so was this trident. Great to drive these buses and the bench seats are nicer too for the punters. Well i think so anyway. Was quiet in town today. On a couple of late duties now so i get a nice lie in tomorrow.

Something unusual

2011-09-24T10:22:00.000+01:00

Just noticed this 216 come into ashton. The destination blinds appear to be all in capital letters. It does stick out more and i think it looks better although i have not seen any other bus with the same style. Working in the bus station today. I'm expecting a tough day as Manchester city are playing everton at home.

Taking the trash out.

2011-09-23T09:31:00.000+01:00

This fire damaged Trident has been in the back of Hyde Road for a good few
years now. I took this as PVS were taking it away yesterday.
I'm off today so catching up on a few things.
Also managed to scan more old Little Gem leaflets so might upload some of
them this weekend if I get chance.
Looking like a good day today so tempted to get the bike out later.
Last night was so busy at Owens park. Freshers week is totally manic. It was
more like a Manchester derby the way they tried boarding the buses at 1030.
Not too enjoyable at all.

Somewhere different

2011-09-18T10:56:00.000+01:00

Today is something very different. I'm at the freshers event at owens park in fallowfield. This is our stall where we are selling uniriders to the students and telling the new people what buses we would like them to catch. Very different to my normal day indeed.

The vision

2011-09-17T12:16:00.001+01:00

This is the vision that was the Metrolink. It's interesting to see the design of the tram on the leaflet compared with how it actually turned out.

This next leaflet is the introduction of the 757 Airport shuttle from Piccadilly. I remember this very well from my youth, as i would often jump on this bus whilst out on my bus rides to get to the airport quicker.The seats were like the normal express seats downstairs but blue and had a larger luggage area.

Going cold

2011-09-14T12:15:00.000+01:00

Today has changed a little to the plan. I was supposed to be in a training session but that was cancelled. Instead i'm doing a survey on the 219 service at grey mare lane. It basically tells us if the buses are on time and how many are travelling. Its not the nicest part of the job especilly since it's a cold wet day but it has to be done now and again.

More Gems

2011-09-14T07:37:00.000+01:00

This one is another Little Gem leaflet but this time its the A1.

Another one

2011-09-11T12:23:00.000+01:00

This leaflet is obviousley the information for the Little Gem service when it started up in Ashton.
These buses arrived in Greater Manchester in the late 80s and promoted a frequent service connecting estates with town centres and went where the bigger buses had never been before.
I remember the O service around Oldham but this one is the A2 and A3 services which ran around the Tameside area. Don't remember seeing any MCW minibuses like the one on the picture. I think they had Ivecos at Tameside depot.

Blast From The Past

2011-09-09T19:41:00.001+01:00

A colleague of mine has been kind enough to lend me some old literature from the Ashton area from the late 80s and 90s so i thought i would scan a few things and post them on here.
Sadly i don't get chance to post much with the current job i do, so it's nice to be able to share stuff like this instead. Although i have no doubts a few readers will already have these lol.
Today is the leaflet which was advertising the 153 Express route which went from Mossley to Manchester via Stalybridge. Hope you enjoy. One thing i did notice though was the bus on the poster is 3258! If memory serves right this was actualy a Bolton bus often seen on the 401 service.

Somewhere different.

2011-09-03T11:31:00.000+01:00

Not been here in a while. I'm currently at Southern Cemetery watching the small but busy bus station. Whilst the passengers around here are relatively small, sharston drivers take meal breaks here and today i'm making sure the buses are back on the road on time. Hoping the rain stays away too. Although i think i might be getting the waterproofs out of my car sometime today. Back in Ashton on monday.

Nuisance

2011-08-25T15:35:00.000+01:00

It seems the metrolink roadworks are getting closer to the bus station. Whilst i have seen a great service on the 216s for the past few days, the narrowing of oldham road and Lord Sheldon way is causing all sorts of issues with the 7, 217, 168 and 169. Not helped by stupid car drivers stopping in the yellow box on the bus station exit. Had 4 days in Ashton today and last day in town tomorrow before 4 days off. Well deserved days off too if i may say so myself. Hoping to hit the trans pennine trail on saturday weather depending.

Nice change

2011-08-16T09:25:00.000+01:00

I'm in Manchester centre today and thought a trip in on the bus would be a nice change. Seems a while since i came in on the bus. Roads look ok at the moment on the 216 but thats always the case until lunchtime. It's also nice to see how the tram works are getting on.

Paint shop

2011-08-13T21:21:00.000+01:00

Took this the other day. I don't really get chance to snap anything obscure anymore due to the job. But here we are. This is ashton bus 19066 which has had new panels as well as a new coat of paint coming up. They do look pretty nice when they come out though. Especially the older buses. Ashton bus station today and for once it's been a pretty nice day. The only problem being the 330 suffering due to roadworks both in Gee Cross and in Stockport. But all in all nice quiet day. Tomorrow is a nice change too. Piccadilly tomorrow on an early so early night for me. Need a new phone too i think. There is a glow with the pictures i take with this and it's getting annoying now. Will have a look around. Oh and forgot to mention. Not much happening on the bike this summer due to injury but all ok now, back in the gym and hoping for some nice rides out soon.

Far away

2011-08-11T11:12:00.000+01:00

I'm at chorlton bus station this morning for a while before heading into manchester to finish the day off. Early duties this week but this is the furthest i have to travel from home. It's a 30 mile round trip today which doesn't do my fuel tank anygood but suppose it's part of the job. Been a scary week this week with the riots in town but luckily i was off when it was going on. Back in Ashton tomorrow for a couple of days.

Stupid drivers.

2011-08-07T06:40:00.000+01:00

I forgot to post this the other day. This is sunnyside road in littlemoss. The council have kindly abolished the bus layby at the bus stop outside the shop so that cars can use it. However this half wit seemed to have trouble doing the simplest of driving tasks luckily no bus came whilst she was in the shop. 4 days off at the moment before my Ashton bus station stint continues. It's not an easy day at the moment working up here. Everything goes great until 1130 then all of a sudden droylsden comes to a standstill. Someone somewhere must be able to make the temporary lights a little more efficient. I here the trams will be running to the stadium for match days. That should take some pressure off us i hope. Anyway not much else to mention. Off car booting this morning. Not been for years so here hoping for a bargain lol.

Working hard

2011-08-02T20:50:00.000+01:00

Was out earlier doing revenue checks around stockport and came across this old scania bus. Bowers normally run a solo on here but today the locals are treated to a classic. Been a nice interesting yet quiet day out and about. I learnt the 384 route whilst checking tickets and got rid of some fare dodging scum at the same time. Back in Ashton bus station for a couple of days now so i think i'll need an early night as the roadworks are hitting us hard once again.

Bad practice

2011-07-26T08:17:00.000+01:00

Back to work today after a long weekend off. Was walking through Ashton
yesterday on the way to look around the shops and noticed this first bus
emptying the bus in the middle of the crossing. I don't like seeing this
sort of thing because if anyone trips the bus is stuck there until an
ambulance comes. Not ideal at all. Not posted for a while as I have had a
weeks holiday and then only a few days in before my long weekend which
included the Stagecoach Ashton trip to the Southport Airshow. It's hard to
take pictures of planes going silly speeds through the air so I won't post
too many. I did notice though Southport looks like a great cycling area so
might be visiting on my bike very soon. On a late today so I got to have a
good lie in before heading down to Stockport later.

Small Trip Out

2011-07-13T16:12:00.000+01:00

On holiday this week so today i managed to get out on my bike. Headed into Manchester first of all where i found this tram broken down at the market street stop causing all sort of problems. Someone said is had derailed but i couldnt see where.

Then i headed off down to St Peters square to find a car on the roof of the library. Odd way of advertising. But interesting.

Finally i ended up going through Flixton, Urmston and ending up at Chorlton Water park. On the way back i passed the new tram line at St Werburghs Road. I believe it is already running here and will finally go on to East Didsbury.

Rare site

2011-07-08T20:58:00.000+01:00

It's not often you see a London bus in stagecoach colours but here is one just out of the paint shop at Hyde Road. Still with it's London blinds installed it's looking very well indeed. Don't think it will be working in Manchester though. There are 4 ex London tridents in Hyde road at the moment all having there rear doors removed and i assume, all being painted up in Stagecoach colours. Been working in town today doing a few different things but back in Ashton tomorrow. Off next week so i'm looking forward to a week of rest. Although i'm sure i'll be out on my bike most of the week.

New arrivals

2011-07-06T14:15:00.000+01:00

Just coming in for my late shift in town and noticed a few new buses parked out the back. Not sure why they are here yet though. I'm hoping for an easy evening.

Big job

2011-07-01T22:52:00.000+01:00

Been in ashton all week and have had a ride out on my bike everynight after work. Earlier i just went into Manchester and then back up the Rochdale canal heading for home. I had to come off the canal just outside town as the tow path was shut. It looks like a big job going on to link the canal to the newly built islington wharf. Should be nice when it's done. Thats if the plan is to do that! Tomorrow is a treat for me. Overtime driving at Ashton. A couple of trips on the 330 with two trips to Glossop bringing up the rear. Should be busy as the carnival is on up there tomorrow. Looking forward to getting behind the wheel.

Something different.

2011-06-28T15:13:00.000+01:00

I'm currently on the A6 at stockport watching 192s. This bus was in the depot. It was involved in an accident a few months ago and seems to have come out a little more colourful. The numbers above the door and the side logo are both very different to the rest of the fleet making this bus a little unique to anyonne slightly interested in buses.

Changes In Glossop

2011-06-27T20:49:00.001+01:00

This the is Old Glossop terminus oddly in Old Glossop. From what i read the 236/237 services will be coming up here. Maybe 15 years ago when there was less cars about and people respected bus routes as important then that would be fine.
These days though i think it might be a rough ride for the drivers.
This terminus firstly needs double yellow lines. The main reason being, at weekends this area is full of the cars of walkers who head up into the Derbyshire moors and once they are gone there is no coming back for hours. I can sense now getting calls to go and reverse a MAN bus around the narrow roads surrounding this area.

And it's not just the terminus thats a difficult drive....

The route upto it is also a little tricky with overhanging trees that have not seen a double decker bus in many years and a nice challenging road which would be interesting if a waggon from the industrial units at the top of the road comes down at the same time!
Then there is the turn outside the Queens arms..

Looks simple enough but a 12 metre MAN bus makes it a challenge once more.
Then once you pass this, The parked cars all the way down Manor Park Road make for a tricky head on stand off with 4 x 4s who don't want to stop for buses.

However apart from all this. I think more people will be served by the bus coming this way and that the turning around procedure might be made a little easier. As for the folk who live up at the royal oak well maybe at some point the 390 might head up that way who knows.
Will be interesting times for the people of Glossop though.

Missing out! :(

2011-06-26T12:21:00.000+01:00

It's a glorious day in manchester this morning. Lots of people in Piccadilly gardens and buses running well. However i'd much rather be at Ashton today. It's the stagecoach manchester, driver of the year finals. So no pictures of that today. Instead a lovely view of the fountain in the gardens. Finish at 4 so i'll get some sunbathing in before the end of the day.

Day Off

2011-06-24T20:59:00.000+01:00

As I said earlier I was out on my bike today. Found this little gem of a
place and I didn't have to travel far for it. This is Medlock Valley way I
believe and runs from the Bay Horse at Clayton Bridge to the bottom of Bank
Street. I found it a very peaceful place indeed. Was nice to explore it a
little and will be using it as a cut through from now on. I'm back in work
tomorrow at Ashton. Although looking at the lights set up on the New Road at
the moment I would rather be doing something else!

Where am i

2011-06-24T12:29:00.000+01:00

Another place that has turned up and suprised me. I didn't know this was here. Just out on a ride not sure where too yet though.

Trip out

2011-06-19T19:44:00.000+01:00

No work this weekend so I decided to head off out on the mountain bike.
Starting with a ride through Heaton Park then headed out to Agecroft and
Salford and then ended up in Liverpool, like you do!

I have done this route before and had forgot how boring the East Lancs Road
is.

It all looks the same.

Pictures were a bit boring but here are a few I took including the X2 just
leaving to Preston.

I got the train back with this being my first decent ride of the year didn't
want to tire myself out too much.

Hope the weather improves for more days out.

I'm back in work tomorrow but off Tuesday so I'm already planning my next
ride. Although I know the East Lancs won't be at the top of the list.

Almost weekend

2011-06-15T07:10:00.000+01:00

Was on a survey last night on Wilmslow road and noticed the Enviro 300 we have on the 111s not often you see it on there. Oddly there was also a magic bus and a green bus on the same route. Off to Ashton today once one. I'm just hoping the temporary lights are kind today as Tuesday was a rough day on the 216s. I'm sure you all read about 19065 going under the bridge at george road stockport. I had a look around it last night and got a couple of pictures but don't think i'd be allowed to share them on here sadly.

Creepy weather

2011-06-10T20:58:00.000+01:00

Back in ashton today. Been a very busy day thanks to Take That! Only one more day of disruption left but i won't be seeing it as i am off. Still lots of interest in the new buses at Ashton with a chap from Newcastle coming to check them out today. I didn't realise how die hard some enthusiasts are. After talking to a few of them over past few weeks i think maybe a manchester open day wouldn't be such a bad idea. And Ashton would be ideal for it. Who knows maybe one day. Back in on monday in Piccadilly. This picture is today showing the ever changing weather.

Just a quick one

2011-06-08T16:19:00.000+01:00

Thought i'd share this from yesterday. I'm sure we all got caught up in it somewhere. This wasa great storm with thunder, lightning hail and rain. I got pretty wet anyway. Off today so had a nice relaxing day doing nothing. Back in tomorrow on a late shift.

Not so bright day.

2011-06-06T19:44:00.000+01:00

Very mixed weather today in Ashton. Just finished work for the day and thought i'd share this rainbow thats very prominent. Been a mad day with lots of people about heading to watch take that once more. Back here tomorrow. No concert though so should be a simple day.

Last one

2011-06-03T19:14:00.000+01:00

Ashton bus station has attracted lots of enthusiasts this week all trying to get the new bus collection in pictures. One has eluded them. 36430 has not yet been delivered to ashton depot and i think this is it. Sat in hyde road depot waiting to get it's numbers. The other picture is the old bee line buz company vehicle which is getting a repaint after having a new engine in it. It'll be back to the museum when it's done.

Something fun

2011-05-29T21:52:00.000+01:00

I'm just sat in Ashton bus station waiting to do my last 216. Have done a late shift driving today for a change as overtime. It's been a real nice change. I do like my job now but miss driving so much so it's nice to still get the chance now and again. My phone has been for a repair too so not had chance to blog much but not much been happening anyway. Back to the day job in Ashton bus station wednesday. Just hope the half term improves the traffic problems we have been seeing everywhere. We get it bad on the new road but i believe first are suffering with the roadworks on oldham road too. I keep seeing 3 and 4 409s coming in at once. We will see. Off to do my last trip of the day. Should be quiet.

Here they are!

2011-05-13T12:58:00.000+01:00

All ready for service these are the 12 new buses that will be operating
around Ashton. Whilst a few might not see it a big deal. I think it will be
nice for the people of Haughton green who go to Ashton to sit on something a
bit nicer than a Man bus and same goes for the 346 punters too. I did have a
little play the other day. They are a nice drive a little sluggish to save
fuel but I still a smooth ride.

Pic was taken by someone else I'm on a late in Piccadilly so just off to
work.

Mixed day.

2011-05-10T20:10:00.000+01:00

Been in Ashton today but yesterday in Piccadilly was a little damp at times. I took this picture about 4pm as tin clouds started to turn the city to darkness. Luckily i took my waterproofs! Back to Ashton tomorrow then a couple of late shifts before three welcomed days off.

More on the way

2011-05-08T09:16:00.000+01:00

Friday will see these new Enviro 200s entering service in Ashton. There is a ceremony at Ashton depot with the mayor cutting the tape on the release of new buses in the Tameside area. Following that all 12 are being sent out to finish the day off in service. They are expected to be out on the 346 and 347 service.

New arrivals

2011-05-08T09:11:00.000+01:00

These two ex London buses have turned up in the yard at hyde road. Not sure where they are going yet. Have heard that they are going to merseyside but also they are for Wilmslow road in magic colours. Will have to wait and see. It would be interesting if they left both doors on. It would certainly increase unloading speeds on the 142 service. On a long stint at the moment with my next day off not coming around until Saturday. Today i'm in town with a trip to Old Trafford for kicking out time when the match against Chelsea finishes.

Simple?

2011-05-06T20:18:00.000+01:00

I took this earlier today. It was a little rushed as I was at Owens park in
Fallowfield working so the picture is a bit rubbish. This 44 run by Haytons
seems to have caught the stupid spelling bug that the Stotts bus had in
Ashton. Unless 'Piccadilly' has changed the way it's spelt. I'm not the best
at grammar as my blog shows but this sort of thing should be spot on I
think.

Where am i?

2011-05-04T17:07:00.001+01:00

Had a day doing a survey today. But where is this? Back in Piccadilly tomorrow morning very early so another night for me. I believe the new buses have started to arrive at Ashton so it won't be long until they are out in service.

It was of course Stretford Road looking towards the Arch which leads to the City. I think i am going to have to go to some very obscure places to fool you lot!

Annoying!

2011-05-03T21:57:00.000+01:00

I have been off for a couple of days so thought i would have a little ride into manchester today to soak up the rays and was met by this sign! I could think of better times of the year to be doing work in piccadilly gardens. It's very busy down here today and all the grass is fenced off. Back to work tomorrow. On early shifts for the next three days which are not the best thing for me but gotta take the rough with the smooth.

Broken bus

2011-04-30T21:50:00.001+01:00

Just walking in town and this beast is in piccadilly picking up a broken down finglands bus. Unlucky lol.

Paint shop

2011-04-30T14:10:00.000+01:00

There is only the one e200 in the yard although i heard 4 were delivered so nothing else to snap at the moment apart from this single deck scania. Looking nice in a new coat of paint. I like driving these. Very comfy buses.

Sneaky Look

2011-04-30T13:12:00.001+01:00

This is one of the new E200s that Ashton are getting.(yes for sure this
time)

I read that they are going on the 347 and 346 services very soon. Although I
hope the frequency on the 347 is increased because it's busy enough now with
buses that can hold 70 people.

This picture I found on facebook but I'm at Hyde Road later so will go get
some better ones and post them later. On a late today in Manchester so not
in work until 3pm.

All quiet

2011-04-29T11:27:00.001+01:00

In town at the moment in piccadilly. It's been a pretty quiet morning so far although i bet the public will be out once the royal wedding has finished. Am working all weekend but can't complain, i had last weekend off.

New colours

2011-04-27T12:14:00.000+01:00

I'm working in piccadilly today and noticed this volvo in new magic colours. I thought most of these were heading down south but obviously not. Lots of kids still off school at the moment so it's quiet busy down here. Still sunny out so topping up the tan nicely.

Not so good day before friday.

2011-04-21T18:49:00.000+01:00

Just finished my shift at Ashton bus station. Took this earlier. This bmw didn't fair too well. I didn't get chance to see what it hit as it had moved before i saw anything. I'm off for 5 days now so going to relax for a few days. Been a very busy four days this week. Especially today with traffic problems everywhere. Lots happening at the moment especially with service changes at the end of the month. Too many to go into on here but a few too many services being run by different operators in the evening and sundays because of tenders being lost which i find a bit frustrating for the passengers. Hard to tell people 11.50 is good value when you can only use it Monday to saturday daytime. Sorry i have not had chance to blog much. This job is just too time consuming. Miss driving loads at the moment. Anyway off to have a bbq and to start my easter break.

Week Off

2011-04-11T16:43:00.001+01:00

I'm off for 9 days and thought I would have a look around some old stuff I
have since the weather cannot decide what to do with itself.

I found this old fare table for the 236 and thought I would compare it with
the recently released set of fare tables on the Stagecoach website. The
older one is from August 1980. There is certainly a lot of difference
between the two. I don't think the recent fare rise was such a surprise
although there is some confusion over the cross boundary fares for children
into Glossop.

It seems that the best option is for all under 16s in Glossop is to buy a
megarider as the child easyrider is no longer valid past the boundary.

Not sure what to do with myself this week. The bike has been serviced and
polished and ready to go but the weather has looked so upside down today
will see what happens later in the week. The weekend was very nice though
but I chose to spend it with family and friends who I have not seen for a
while.

Will post if I get anywhere special on my bike anyway.

Interesting stuff

2011-04-04T23:19:00.000+01:00

Noticed a bit of history being restored at hyde road last week. Looks like an old bee line bus is being done up in an engineers spare time. This moorland bus has kindly given up it's engine to the old yellow minibus. I think from memory they were iveco buses although i might be getting mixed up with some of the little gems that were running at a similar time. Anyway looked like the body was finished and the interior needed some tlc but i'm sure it won't be long until this little yellow bus will be out and about at the rallies.

Where?

2011-04-04T13:03:00.000+01:00

Just spotted this stotts 353 in the bus station. It seems there blind programmer might need a little advice on place names. The front destination was ok but the side is spelt wrong. Unless they have changed it. Been a toughy today with all the new fare changes but it looks like people are taking to it. Most buses are loading quicker than last week although there are a lot of passes that still won't scan. Wonder if they have this problem in london?

Pricey

2011-03-30T12:04:00.001+01:00

As we all know, the fares go out slightly on Sunday. First bus have gone
that bit further. They are hitting the customers with another £1 on the
already overpriced weekly ticket. I think £17 is way too much to be honest
and I'm not just saying that because I work for Stagecoach. Even the drivers
are a little surprised at the increase.

I'm sure they are in for a tough time Monday morning, and I still cannot
understand why you would have a fare that's more expensive than the day
ticket?

We started swiping the concession passes this week. It caused a little
confusion on Monday and some frustration but in time it will work well. I
had 4 drivers approach me this week who had taken out of date passes because
the machine had picked it up.

I'm on a late today on Wilmslow road so I won't finish until midnight and
off tomorrow which is always nice.

Such a change

2011-03-29T09:20:00.000+01:00

Been at chorlton since 7am this morning. It's the first time i have been here. It's a bit far from home but very enjoyable. So many buses passing through here it's been hard to keep up at some times lol. Managed though. Also got a couple of pics of people thinking they could use the yellow box as a parking space till the lights further down changed. Off to fallowfield next for the rest of the day.

Not too bad

2011-03-25T23:43:00.000Z

Had a week in Ashton bus station today. Been pretty good actually. I think the roadworks are easing off a little at the moment. Today was the busiest for me but Fridays are normally different than the rest of the week as some people still finish work early. Found out the details of the new fares today. All tickets are going up from the 3rd april. However the rises are very minimal with just 50p on mega riders and the introduction of a child day ticket once more. But suprisingly the easy rider has dropped to bring it in line with the new half fare policy which is being introduced on the same day. So much going on at the moment which will take an age to explain yet everyone should be pretty educated after just a few days. The new ticket machines start to use the swipe feature on pte chipped cards although i'd rather see the satnav feature first but who am i to say lol. The pic by the way is first at oldham. Just picking a mate up thought i would have a quick snap.

Nothing doing.

2011-03-22T13:35:00.000Z

I'm off today and the glorious weather has brought me out to the airport on the bike. It's the first run out of the year. Been so busy with work have let myself go a little so time to get my act together and get some exercise. Although not much going on here. I have been at the end of the runway for about 30 minutes and not seen a thing. Gonna head into town and back up the metrolink trail to ashton to see how thats going.

Something different

2011-03-15T10:49:00.000Z

I'm at southern cemetery this morning. It's a glorious day so i'm catching the sun whilst sorting out where to put the buses which are parked up on meal breaks. It's a bit like valet parking at the moment. I believe the sharston move went well but like most new things it's takes some people longer than others to get use to the changes. It's certainly keeping me busy today though.

No need.

2011-03-11T10:00:00.000Z

Working in Ashton today. Can never understand why first and speedwell drivers let people off on wellington road instead of inside the bus stations like they are supposed too. I would be a bit miffed if it was raining and i had to walk all the way around to catch my next bus. Anyway. Quiet upto now but fridays normally throw in little suprises. We will see.

March on!

2011-03-06T19:27:00.000Z

Seems that there are a lot of people with lots to say at the moment. In manchester yesterday and these was a large amount of people protesting council but backs and today theretir a group protesting about the lybian government? What use that does i have no idea. I'm on a late tonight at Owens park. First part was on the 216 stand in town though which was very uneventful indeed. Day off tomorrow which i need. Back on Tuesday to another late shift.

Different

2011-03-04T13:52:00.000Z

Just seen this on the 219 service thought i'd share it. Must take some effort covering a full bus side like this. Sure looks different though.

Why bother?

2011-03-04T13:50:00.000Z

This little thing turned up on the 409 yesterday afternoon in ashton. It left very very full around 330ish. Not a big bus in sight for about 15 minutes after it either. Been in Ashton for three days this week. I believe speedwell have stopped the s48 and s49s not good going at the moment for them. Much easier week in contrast to last week for me. Hope it carries on this afternoon.

From the old

2011-02-27T19:57:00.000Z

Thought i would come have a look at the new depot at sharston. I was expecting something like Ashton. Hardly! It's bigger than i thought and looks pretty nice. As new buildings go. They move on the 12th i believe so will have to come for a look after then as the gates are locked at the moment.

A bit odd

2011-02-25T19:01:00.000Z

After a gruelling couple of days including someone trashing there car on the m67 and someone else bringing the city to a standstill by threatening to jump off the mancunian way. This made me chuckle a little bit. I have been in ashton today which has been relatively quiet. The crowd pictures are the greek fans on the way to eastlands last night at 530pm. Not what the 192 stop normally looks like anyway. Three days driving now so i'm looking forward to this. The bury metrolink is a great route to drive so 2 days on that and 1 day driving out of ashton will be a nice change.

It's here

2011-02-24T11:40:00.000Z

Stood in piccadilly at the moment covering lunchbreak on the ever so popular 192. It's the first day since i started this job that i have been able to unzip my coat. I seen minus 9 on the plaza a few months ago and now i'm stood in the sun. Just hope it lasts.

Everyday is different.

2011-02-24T08:50:00.000Z

I'm just on the bus on the way to town. It's nice sometimes leaving the car at home and having a chilled paper reading session on the bus. Especially after yesterdays events. Every bus that went within a 5 mile radius of Denton roundabout was caught up in the chaos due to an accident at midday. I was so Ashton bus station and it was a very very busy day for me. It was only a matter of time it was going to happen on my shift but we managed pretty well. Journey times were doubled but most passengers where very understanding. Although you can't please everyone. It shows everyday really can be a challenge doing this job. And it's not just about checking tickets and ticking boxes. On piccadilly today on the 200s bus stop. Should be ok as the kids are off this week so should have a clean sheet at the end of the day. Back in Ashton tomorrow followed by 3 of my 4 days off spent driving. Saturday and sunday is metrolink work on the bury line. Monday is a nice 1 - 9 duty at Ashton depot. If i can remember the routes lol.

Helping hand

2011-02-19T18:42:00.000Z

This has been a familiar sight around Ashton for the past couple of months. We currently have 4 extra buses working on Ashton new road each day to help with the problems we have due to metrolink works. They are sent from Princess road depot and run for 12 hours each day. It's not hard from my point of view to see they are such a help. Especially at busy times. So expect to see a magic bus in Ashton for a while longer. Been very quiet in Ashton bus station today, which is where i have been. Nothing spectacular to report. Two days of lates coming up in Piccadilly so i think the thermals will be out tomorrow.

A different look!

2011-02-17T09:33:00.000Z

These are two of the new Stockport free buses. I believe stagecoach are taking over the service from April. As most will know these buses came from Preston and were painted at Hyde road. Not sure why they are white. I can only assume it's a requirement of the contract to have no branding on the bus? Been a very cold very busy couple of months since my last post. I do miss sharing what i do so thought i would try again. I might not be able to share as much but will see how it goes. Thanks for all the kind messages on the last post. Didn't realised so many read this lol.