tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40070180573315793292024-02-07T05:20:24.921+00:00Britain by BusJimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-79846381529700620982010-09-14T19:13:00.004+01:002010-09-14T19:24:42.330+01:00Britain by Bus rides again...<div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9C3NiTOpsrOp5nWyIaQ_3y7wfsfL1iauiZ4GGCOTQum_Mae799is6tOziGXqgqfVK1cFcqM9kZ283zztgPIp8f8_naXDHJqrc3RmBUuAcdObJk4d2mfkq85_kyRJmu8zvTXYD3TsIpar/s320/arriva-bus-stop.jpg" alt="Arriva bus stop" /></div><p>...at least metaphorically. I may not be heading out onto the open road at any point soon (another couple of years perhaps?) but in the meantime I'd like to share an idea I had the other week about a possible future journey from coast to coast across Britain. It isn't as long as "Britain by Bus" as it only heads from west to east across the country. And the special catch this time is that it uses (mainly) Arriva buses. I've tentatively called it "Isle to Isle" based on the start and finish points – Isle of Anglesey off the Gwynedd coast (technically Holy Island) and Isle of Sheppey in the Thames Estuary. Here's a sample timetable:</p><h4>Day 1 – Monday</h4>
<p><strong>Service 4</strong><br>
0650 departs Holyhead, Summer Hill<br>
0742 arrives Llangefni, High Street</p>
<p><strong>Service 4A</strong><br>
0742 departs Llangefni, High Street<br>
0821 arrives Bangor, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service X5</strong><br>
0835 departs Bangor, Bus Station<br>
0932 arrive Llandudno, Palladium</p>
<p><strong>Service 12</strong><br>
0947 departs Llandudno, York Road<br>
1103 arrives Rhyl, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 11</strong><br>
1115 departs Rhyl, Bus Station<br>
1212 arrives Holywell, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service X11</strong><br>
1215 departs Holywell, Bus Station<br>
1317 arrives Chester, Bus Exchange</p>
<p><strong>Service 1</strong><br>
1409 departs Chester, Foregate Street<br>
1449 arrives Wrexham, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 2</strong><br>
1507 departs Wrexham, Bus Station<br>
1608 arrives Oswestry, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 70</strong><br>
1642 departs Oswestry, Bus Station<br>
1737 arrive Shrewsbury, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service X5</strong><br>
1800 departs Shrewsbury, Bus Station<br>
1830 arrives Telford, Bus Station</p>
<div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7QAMll3MvNPyMXV6dGHwAgKXpVZ6DLOuvOPcGXJLnQQN7-Duc2S8Uun7YOcF3u9tI5HBnSDoj6WRQnzAT0EGo3AV9cf69roAbUkrsYRt1TV2_TI6hLt4DuRJWwAO9YaT5WBSh8xL7Srg/s360/uk-map-whole-journey.png" alt="Britain by Bus: Complete Route" /> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZDrsFUo_4PYuF50oiR5aipaYG_p3uG9WD-6OSXc11ScpKFcCxk8CYIl7ekNep1tMJMw-mLh_gIn3Y-5-qBS5GSIKNWmvp0nZdtVKhHg52DU1LpqZ4vl2I4R_zSCZzBpIwbg29sxenxnq/s360/uk-map-isle-to-isle.png" alt="Isle to Isle: Complete Route" /><div>Compare and contrast: Britain by Bus versus Isle to Isle</div></div>
<br><br>
<h4>Day 2 – Tuesday</h4>
<p><strong>Service 892</strong><br>
0700 departs Telford, Bus Station<br>
0800 arrives Wolverhampton, Princess Street</p>
<p><strong>Service 70</strong><br>
0840 departs Wolverhampton, Cleveland Street<br>
0935 arrives Cannock, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 60</strong><br>
1005 departs Cannock, Bus Station<br>
1055 arrives Lichfield, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 12</strong><br>
1110 departs Lichfield, Bus Station<br>
1205 arrives Burton-on-Trent, New Street</p>
<p><strong>Service 9A</strong><br>
1230 departs Burton-on-Trent, New Street<br>
1325 arrives Coalville, High Street</p>
<p><strong>Service 29A</strong><br>
1328 departs Coalville, Memorial Square<br>
1430 arrives Leicester, St. Margaret's Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service X3</strong><br>
1450 departs Leicester, St. Margaret's Bus Station<br>
1540 arrives Market Harborough, Market Hall</p>
<p><strong>Service X7</strong> <span style="color:#ff0000; font-style:italic;">(operated by Stagecoach)</span><br>
1631 departs Market Harborough, Market Hall<br>
1710 arrives Northampton, Greyfriars Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 33</strong><br>
1749 departs Northampton, Greyfriars Bus Station<br>
1851 arrives Milton Keynes, Bus Station</p>
<div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BqcGazQLT6m7wn3KUf6MrRUjU7x0qVowhk3dDYYybvWLWoHhy9gRZ-kJcn-h4twoILjtsG7AtsBvcuG0oiCRnZ74G5NBU1rNbo3rrFBm6iG2vwc7wRcMhfxvwo6kOtJCwAp2KC5GuGQk/s320/fastrack-dartford.jpg" alt="Fastrack Dartford" /></div>
<h4>Day 3 – Wednesday</h4>
<p><strong>Service 150</strong><br>
0710 departs Milton Keynes, The Point<br>
0820 arrives Aylesbury, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 500</strong><br>
0832 departs Aylesbury, Bus Station<br>
0937 arrives Hemel Hempstead, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 300</strong><br>
0952 departs Hemel Hempstead, Bus Station<br>
1020 arrives St. Albans, St. Peters Street</p>
<p><strong>Service 724</strong> <span style="color:#00ff00; font-style:italic;">(Greenline)</span><br>
1043 departs St. Albans, Station Interchange<br>
1136 arrives Hertford, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 310</strong><br>
1208 departs Hertford, Bus Station<br>
1300 arrives Waltham Cross, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 279</strong> <span style="color:#0000ff; font-style:italic;">(operated for TfL)</span><br>
1402 departs Waltham Cross, Bus Station<br>
1433 arrives Edmonton Green, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 149</strong> <span style="color:#0000ff; font-style:italic;">(operated for TfL)</span><br>
1445 departs Edmonton Green, Bus Station<br>
1556 arrives London Bridge, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 47</strong> <span style="color:#ff0000; font-style:italic;">(operated by Selkent)</span><br>
1619 departs London Bridge, Southwark Cathedral<br>
1715 arrives Catford, Bromley Road</p>
<p><strong>Service 160</strong> <span style="color:#0000ff; font-style:italic;">(operated for TfL)</span><br>
1745 departs Catford, Lewisham Town Hall<br>
1822 arrives Eltham, Church</p>
<h4>Day 4 – Thursday</h4>
<p><strong>Service 233</strong> <span style="color:#0000ff; font-style:italic;">(operated for TfL)</span><br>
0833 departs Eltham, Church<br>
0915 arrives Swanley, ASDA</p>
<p><strong>Service 477</strong><br>
0929 departs Swanley, ASDA<br>
0951 arrives Dartford, Home Gardens</p>
<p><strong>Service B</strong> <span style="color:#00ff00; font-style:italic;">(Fastrack)</span><br>
1009 departs Dartford, Home Gardens<br>
1052 arrives Gravesend, Garrick Street</p>
<p><strong>Service 136</strong><br>
1111 departs Gravesend, Garrick Street<br>
1150 arrives Chatham, Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 101</strong><br>
1205 departs Chatham, Bus Station<br>
1235 arrives Maidstone, Chequers Bus Station</p>
<p><strong>Service 334</strong><br>
1245 departs Maidstone, Chequers Bus Station<br>
1403 arrives Sheerness, Tesco</p>
<div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIn0Cd2a61xBHvmCsMQ4h-bJVbllG5O4xAwwBethGFMMl4ZQCZhaFPTEO9Bs0TWNC4q3z-r3y9lhA-bvAPuL51jMJrYvSMAEmMKaWlkj6FQui8txEBTgihfrMHGRMM6xIkuSfgskLSx3tf/s320/riding-off-into-the-night.jpg" alt="Riding off into the night" /></div><p>I'm not proposing to do it myself – so if anyone else would like to try it out, I'm sure we'd be interested to follow your exploits. In the meantime, if you've appreciated any of my blogging, I've teamed up with Martin from Manchester Buses blog to launch the <a href="http://manchestertransport.wordpress.com/">Manchester Transport Blog</a> which covers buses, trains and trams in Greater Manchester. After several years of home working, I've finally got myself a season ticket and have rejoined the ranks of the daily commuters. So see you out and about!</p>
<p class="image-credit">Image credits: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mafleen/46051069/">mafleen</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wirewiping/3755599356/">wirewiping</a> and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nicohogg/492986812/">Nicobobinus</a> on Flickr</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-35831957597843298522010-05-18T22:10:00.000+01:002010-05-18T22:10:12.988+01:00Celebrating 100 years of Princess Road<p>Imagine my amusement when, only a couple of days after having written my "final" entry for the <a href="http://britainbybus.blogspot.com/">Britain by Bus blog</a>, I received an email from Nikki at <a href="http://tangerinepr.com/">Tangerine PR</a> asking whether I'd like to attend the unveiling of a new charity book celebrating the centenary of Princess Road bus depot. With the proceeds going to Moss Side-based charity <a href="http://www.manchesteryounglives.org.uk/">Manchester Young Lives</a>, which offers youth work, educational and training programmes to children and young people in some of the most disadvantaged areas of Manchester, it's certainly a worthy cause. Given that Stagecoach Group were kind enough to support my trip on behalf of <a href="http://www.christies.org/">The Christie</a>, it was the least I could do to go along and find out more.</p><object width="400" height="300"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F_4cryingoutloud%2Fsets%2F72157624087891192%2Fshow%2F&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F_4cryingoutloud%2Fsets%2F72157624087891192%2F&set_id=72157624087891192&jump_to="></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" allowFullScreen="true" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F_4cryingoutloud%2Fsets%2F72157624087891192%2Fshow%2F&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F_4cryingoutloud%2Fsets%2F72157624087891192%2F&set_id=72157624087891192&jump_to=" width="400" height="300"></embed></object><p>For those who aren't aware of the Princess Road depot, it's located on the main eponymous dual carriageway that leads into Manchester city centre from the south through Moss Side. Built for Manchester Corporation Tramways in 1909, it was originally constructed for trams but these days houses buses belonging to <a href="http://www.stagecoachbus.com/manchester">Stagecoach Manchester</a> – one of four main depots they operate out of. Around 200 vehicles are based there, including many of the latest examples of low-floor double deckers and a sizeable contingent of older vehicles used on Magic Bus services along Wilmslow Road.</p><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQYFMH3XhfHsUNCqh-f57j7wbxOEnyj-x6Z3uGe7IiQ7Zgy_pKOvP4x3UEMx7CZU4tELLPy88rf87ARwHodseTStEK4yK_ZVf1OK1z0mITatnLsfssHeNtQc8mIqAPGfpI4jU_H_EIOOp/s200/moss-side-tram.jpg" alt="Moss Side tram" /></div><p>The book itself spans from 1909 to present day, with pictures dating from the early tram days cheek-and-jowl with interior shots of the depot featuring the buses of today. There are 60 full-colour pages, although bear in mind that the early photos are in black and white or sepia-toned. It isn't all about the vehicles either – it's about the memories and recollections from the men and women who have served the community working on the trams and buses. At the ceremony I managed to speak to one of the contributors, whose grandfather John Bartley is pictured on the right. Born in 1876, he started working on the trams in 1906. He was still working in the 1930s, evidenced by one of his payslips that was discovered during the research of the book.</p><p>As for the future of Princess Road depot, it's <a href="http://manchesterbus.typepad.com/manchester_buses/2008/01/stagecoach-to-l.html">earmarked for demolition and redevlopment</a>. A purpose built replacement depot is currently under construction in Sharston – with managing director Mark Threapleton aiming to move in during the summer next year. The new location will be in a more industrial area, unlike the terraced housing that surrounds Princess Road which belongs to an era when people lived closer to their place of employment. There will be a link to the old depot however: the cast metal war memorial from Princess Road (currently undergoing repair) will find a home at the new depot.</p><h4>How to purchase the book</h4><p>Further details on <a href="http://www.stagecoachbus.com/Manchester-PrincessRd-Book.aspx">how to purchase the book can be found on the Stagecoach Manchester website</a>.</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-60659807534941801452010-04-18T14:24:00.002+01:002010-04-18T14:27:25.135+01:00One year on...<p>It's been a year since I started my journey by bus from one end of the country to the other. It feels longer than that, somehow. I thought I'd do one final post to tie up a few loose ends and fill you in on some developments since.</p><h4>New vehicles</h4><p>Since my trip twelve months ago, several routes have seen investment in new vehicles. There are new low-floor single deckers on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jncarter1962/4288366911/">service 4 between Glasgow and Ayr</a> as well as on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/transliner/4325157563/">service 79 between Dumfries and Carlisle</a>. Similarly, there are new low-floor double deckers for <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ian_simpson/4424421565/">service 125 between Preston and Bolton</a> with the promise of more to come for the 40/41 between Lancaster and Preston. New vehicles have replaced the low-floor double deckers on the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/southdown/4411522896/">Coastliner 700 service</a>, which have been <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14218609@N02/4415227086/">cascaded onto other routes such as the 37</a>. And in Manchester itself, there are hybrid vehicles on order for Wilmslow Road corridor and service 42.</p><div class="image-float-right"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2468/4043072806_b0dd52c411_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="The morning 'commuter to Dundee" /></div><h4>That Manchester connection</h4><p>One of the noticeable things on my journey was the number of vehicles I travelled on that used to see service in Manchester, including many low-floor double deckers. Noticeable by their MX prefix registrations, I travelled on one in Dundee, another in the Lake District, yet another in Lincoln and saw one in Basingstoke too. Then there were older step-entrance vehicles in Cumbria and running college day duties in the South Downs. With so many new vehicles having entered service in Manchester over the past few years, it's perhaps no surprise that <a href="http://www.stagecoachbus.com/pressreleasesdetails.aspx?Id=258">the local Stagecoach subsidiary was shortlisted for UK Bus Operator of the Year in 2009</a> – well done to everyone there, and keep up the good work!</p><h4>Municipals and Preston Bus</h4><p>You might recall I wrote about <a href="http://britainbybus.blogspot.com/2009/04/in-defence-of-municipal.html">fears that Rossendale Transport might be sold off</a> – but the council decided that they'd be better off keeping it under public ownership. Plymouth and Iswlyn were not so lucky, sold to Go-Ahead and Stagecoach respectively – with the total number of municipals now down to eleven – whilst a minority stake in Ipswich could be sold to Go-Ahead. On the other hand, there was fall-out from <a href="http://britainbybus.blogspot.com/2009/04/case-against-stagecoach.html">Stagecoach's competition against and subsequent purchase of Preston Bus</a>. The takeover was <a href="http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/inquiries/ref2009/preston/index.htm">referred to the Competition Commission</a>. Whilst Stagecoach is <a href="http://www.catribunal.org.uk/237-4990/1145-4-8-09-Stagecoach-Group-Plc.html">appealing the decision</a>, it looks like they are preparing to sell the company regardless of the outcome – one of the interested parties is an employee buyout, which would have a certain symmetry about it!</p><h4>Buses and the internet</h4><p>This winter we've seen some of the biggest snowfalls in the country for many years. Although bus operators <a href="http://omnibuses.blogspot.com/2009/12/unseasonal-snow.html">struggled</a> <a href="http://omnibuses.blogspot.com/2010/01/here-we-go-again.html">with</a> the <a href="http://omnibuses.blogspot.com/2010/01/only-one-subject-today.html">weather</a>, I'm very happy to report that the use of the internet as a means of communication with passengers really came of age, using websites, Twitter and Facebook to try and keep passengers up to date. Indeed, I even ended up collating <a href="http://omnibuses.blogspot.com/2010/01/social-mediaa-bus-operators-guide.html">a few handy hints on how bus operators could improve their use of Social Media</a>. I've also started <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/uk-bus-operators">a list of UK bus operators who use Twitter</a> – drop me a line (or a tweet) if you know of any more!</p><h4>Scotland</h4><div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8EfR0hyW4PvUu7uHw1F1EQy1ph9DCbNt7QFjNEz01lkrjpoAAiyHRG00lMq-7XZWh5cm1p7bGz1NxiaA91hB_ghcXF2Pn8TXE3qSA91sJ9ZFNfOxxfVPoIpX7rzle7RuErjdU_WaEZvm8/s320/armadale-ferry-minibus.jpg" alt="Making the connection off the ferry" /></div><p>I enjoyed the Scottish section of my trip so much, the scenery so wild and untamed, that I decided to go back there on holiday in February this year. The only bus of the journey was a Stagecoach Mercedes minibus which collected us off the afternoon ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye, and deposited us in Kyle of Lochalsh the following morning. The rest of the journey was done by train, with far less running about trying to make questionable connections.</p><p class="image-credit">Thanks to Anthony for the photo of me and the minibus – <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/laptoppingpong/sets/72157623400830795/">more photos from our trip here</a></p><h4>Final word</h4><p>Once again, thanks to everyone for supporting and following the project. I hope you're inspired to go out and try this country's public transport system for yourselves! :)</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-2924030372887243142009-07-22T11:02:00.003+01:002009-07-22T11:15:29.128+01:00More slides<p>Here's the second half of the slideshow, covering Stockport to Brighton. I've uploaded almost all my photos, although work on filling in all the descriptions continues in a rather haphazard way.</p><iframe align="center" src="http://www.flickr.com/slideShow/index.gne?set_id=72157619123691633" width="500" height="500" frameBorder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><p>(If you can't see the frame above, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/_4cryingoutloud/sets/72157619123691633/">view the Flickr set here</a>)</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-11278266484879685862009-05-11T23:04:00.004+01:002009-06-03T22:00:24.678+01:00Virtual Slideshow<p>I'm well behind on the photo front, but I'm starting to catch up a little. Here's a slideshow of uploaded photos from the expedition – I'll try and upload more on a daily basis, so please check back.</p><iframe align="center" src="http://www.flickr.com/slideShow/index.gne?set_id=72157619123746809" width="500" height="500" frameBorder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><p>(If you can't see the frame above, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/_4cryingoutloud/sets/72157619123746809/">view the Flickr set here</a>)</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-55097132622064067512009-05-05T22:01:00.003+01:002009-05-05T22:14:54.316+01:00Photography<p>You know what? I'm still sifting through all the photos I took. You've no doubt seen some of the low quality photos I took with my camphone, but I did have a proper digital camera with me too. It seemed like an ideal opportunity to learn more about the concepts of photography: shutter speeds, apertures, etc. Unfortunately, I had failed to take into account the nature of the challenge.</p><p>Taking photos from a bus is difficult. Firstly, it is moving. If you make a mess of a shot, there's no going back to have another go. Secondly, it is difficult to take shots through a window on a sunny day without getting reflections of seats, stanchions, etc. Finally, it may not seem strange taking photos from a bus whilst passing through a national park, but you get a lot of strange looks and half-whispered mutterings when you attempt the same in less touristy areas.</p><p>(Taking photos <em>of</em> buses is difficult too, for reasons of movement, strange looks, and also the fact that you've a tight connection and don't want to stray too far from the queue – but that's another story.)</p><p>In the meantime, here's my favourite quirky hi-res photo, taken from the X4 as it sped along the A45 south of Northampton.</p><div class="image-centre"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/_4cryingoutloud/3504893119/" title="Car by _4cryingoutloud, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3537/3504893119_cbb326e891.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Car" /></a></div>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-73002516847051741512009-04-29T18:24:00.002+01:002009-04-29T18:24:00.769+01:00What went wrong?<p class="highlight">A compendium of mishaps...</p><h4>Carlisle-gate (Day 3)</h4><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSh3qWgw9tXkNtS87IHmRu7-ZKXDgqaSgdI_i30sR7DU8_U1l4nJ5v0Z4pQ3dms8VSw2dTG74CNNd7fAFuuPCRyDH3aM8Yd1IrFyuuJUookgFD4gn7yfUgFhXn6hs7qi9qOgItaU9ALWqB/s200/Image001.jpg" alt="The wrong bus stop" /></div><p>I stood at the wrong bus stop.</p><ul><li>Bus from Dumfries the previous night did not call at bus station</li><li>Sub-standard reconnaissance failed to locate existence of bus station</li><li>General lack of on-street signage pointing to bus station</li><li>Crib sheet specifically mentioned bus station but failed to mention omission of stop on The Crescent</li><li>Failure to check crib sheet properly</li><li>Lack of "where to catch your bus" posters at city centre bus stops</li><li>Timetable at The Crescent bus stop made no mention of college day variation</li></ul><p><strong>Solution:</strong> caught my reserve journey direct to Keswick (avoiding Penrith) and arrived in time to make planned onward connections.</p><h4>Worksop-gate (Day 4)</h4><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7gBcW42eJP66zA5wMYHOusl6igkPPBY9ynYgRHjVjTFS2wedmEiYIs1U-jcji8HwWFvzA-eQGZfjjLG5ixFgiAU6iiKM5nRCxvjPksgmzkETbkdLTNBVlZTpG-nde7LSFIRM-tj7IKB9/s200/Image050.jpg" alt="Worksop bus station" /></div><p>I got on the bus going in the wrong direction.</p><ul><li>Spent an additional 30 minutes in Chesterfield, reducing connection time</li><li>Travel office undergoing renovation, temporarily replaced by portakabin in bus depot entrance</li><li>Travel portakabin closed for lunch, so no access to timetables</li><li>Worksop bus station extremely cramped and busy, resulting in lack of access to at-stop timetable</li><li>Crib sheet failed to note that service ran in two directions</li><li>Day ticket resulted in lack of destination verification from driver</li><li>Correct stop for Retford around the corner from the main bus stops</li></ul><p><strong>Solution:</strong> caught my reserve journies onwards to Retford, Gainsborough, Lincoln and Grantham. Arrived in Grantham half an hour later than planned.</p><h4>Grantham-gate (Day 4)</h4><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-ceCT6OMez-sTPvPTGaM1O8CM0uykEX6P-yYvYtq-uyHGrsAf48imVafeahKyP_csX8B0mxj1_qYxvxF_B02XAiX09VqkuKU1HDlsIPP9nfnALQa2lcP8C3MJTK5M8wCBhsXFnfB7XZ9/s200/Image058.jpg" alt="Great Northern Hotel" /></div><p>The B&B thought that I was due to arrive the day after.</p><ul><li>I organised accomodation via email</li><li>The mistake was at their end and not mine</li><li>Nearby Belton Horse Trials causing most Grantham hotels to be fully booked.</li></ul><p><strong>Solution:</strong> caught the next available East Midlands Trains service to Peterborough to try my hand there – a journey not scheduled until the following morning. Booked into Great Northern Hotel opposite station. Was able to have a lie-in the following morning.</p><h4>Alton-gate (Day 6)</h4><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Cio49TIaPnWCErf9LrpbGAgIuG82yy-6NebUcepNmctAFt7pciTotzeNODIsXrdeiqDsZwDmY1EbBiXAOfN3H53pm7iTihaMWfD4dqrHWp-DaZo2vEc-D0oFxnh4XYUkUbc7-KJmzktw/s200/Image030_1.jpg" alt="Sweet Fanny Adams" /></div><p>I missed a connection by the smallest of fractions.</p><ul><li>Decided to spend an extra hour in bed in Andover, meaning a six minute connection in Alton rather than 2 hours</li><li>Bus from Basingstoke to Alton ran at least five minutes late</li><li>Failure to research Alton town centre bus stops in advance</li><li>Crib sheet referred to changing at railway station, not town centre</li><li>Lack of confidence over where bus to Petersfield would stop in town centre</li><li>Continuing on to railway station rather than alighting in the town centre</li><li>Term time diversion via college lengthened journey</li><li>Failure to attract attention of the driver to Petersfield before he drove off</li></ul><p><strong>Solution:</strong> hung around in Alton for 2 hours. Ran an hour later than scheduled for the remainder of the day + RTA delay.</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-56848302726180314502009-04-28T21:45:00.001+01:002009-04-28T21:53:38.004+01:00Number crunching<div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY2ZyGwEVT8u4WU74cl_SPPkEBhKgIkLPOnoDdxLFPOSPIv8J-tgu8_K9Quz-LGxo1v17F_YdNBnxmxNYPBxw-SOyvk1YBwyvuTZiX8q5AJzK1WkAI4zZsYThsA2lHkJ-blrs97nsvkMKq/s200/Image0059.jpg" alt="Bolton Bus Station" /></div><p>I caught <strong>30</strong> buses and <strong>2</strong> trains on my six day trip from Thurso to Brighton, over a journey of roughly <strong>1068</strong> miles. In addition to that, I caught a further <strong>3</strong> trains, <strong>2</strong> planes, <strong>1</strong> bus and <strong>1</strong> National Express coach getting to and from the start and finish points.</p><p>(Edit: I also caught another bus in Worksop. It was a double-decker. I thought it was heading to Retford, but instead it was operating in the opposite direction and ended up back in Worksop again. I didn't catch any further details, as I was in rather a fluster. I have thus excluded it from my figures!)</p><p>Here's a table summing up the different types of buses and coaches I caught on my trip:</p><style type="text/css"> .bustable th, .bustable td{text-align:right;} .daytype{background:#ffcccc;} .bustype{background:#ccffcc;} .accesstype{background:#ccccff;} .totaltype{background:#cccccc;} </style><table class="bustable"><tbody><tr><th class="daytype">x</th><th class="bustype">Double deck bus</th><th class="bustype">Single deck bus</th><th class="bustype">Single deck coach</th><th class="accesstype">Low floor</th><th class="accesstype">Wheel chair lift</th><th class="accesstype">Step entrance</th><th class="totaltype">Total</th></tr><tr><th class="daytype">Sunday</th><td class="bustype">-</td><td class="bustype">1</td><td class="bustype">2</td><td class="accesstype">1</td><td class="accesstype">2</td><td class="accesstype">-</td><td class="totaltype">3</td></tr><tr><th class="daytype">Monday</th><td class="bustype">1</td><td class="bustype">2</td><td class="bustype">3</td><td class="accesstype">1</td><td class="accesstype">3</td><td class="accesstype">2</td><td class="totaltype">6</td></tr><tr><th class="daytype">Tuesday</th><td class="bustype">3</td><td class="bustype">2</td><td class="bustype">-</td><td class="accesstype">4</td><td class="accesstype">-</td><td class="accesstype">1</td><td class="totaltype">5</td></tr><tr><th class="daytype">Wednesday</th><td class="bustype">3</td><td class="bustype">4</td><td class="bustype">-</td><td class="accesstype">6</td><td class="accesstype">-</td><td class="accesstype">1</td><td class="totaltype">7</td></tr><tr><th class="daytype">Thursday</th><td class="bustype">2</td><td class="bustype">1</td><td class="bustype">1</td><td class="accesstype">2</td><td class="accesstype">1</td><td class="accesstype">1</td><td class="totaltype">4</td></tr><tr><th class="daytype">Friday</th><td class="bustype">3</td><td class="bustype">2</td><td class="bustype">-</td><td class="accesstype">2</td><td class="accesstype">-</td><td class="accesstype">3</td><td class="totaltype">5</td></tr><tr style="font-weight:bold;"><th class="daytype">Subtotals</th><td class="bustype">12</td><td class="bustype">12</td><td class="bustype">6</td><td class="accesstype">16</td><td class="accesstype">6</td><td class="accesstype">8</td><td class="totaltype">30</td></tr></tbody></table><p>I wouldn't normally make detailed notes – but given that it was a special occasion, here's a list of vehicles I travelled on over the six days, with links to pictures available on the internet:</p><p><strong>Sunday:</strong>
<a href="http://bus.photos.fotopic.net/p54002777.html">53104</a>; <a href="http://markamis.fotopic.net/p42623740.html">53269</a>; <a href="http://andrewcairns.fotopic.net/p54836402.html">22356</a></p><p><strong>Monday:</strong>
<a href="http://donald1852.fotopic.net/p54330842.html">18351</a>; <a href="http://walterringlis.fotopic.net/p54771956.html">53291</a>; <a href="http://glens-buses.fotopic.net/p56221817.html">53251</a>; <a href="http://glens-buses.fotopic.net/p57715378.html">20509</a>; <a href="http://david371.fotopic.net/p55266521.html">54502</a>; <a href="http://www.ukstagecoachbus.fpic.co.uk/p56057550.html">20944</a></p><p><strong>Tuesday:</strong>
<a href="http://stagecoachnorthwest.fotopic.net/p53806958.html">14232</a>; <a href="http://daveheath.fotopic.net/p51103274.html">18360</a>; <a href="http://paulsbuses.fpic.co.uk/p56592827.html">22816</a>; <a href="http://www.ukstagecoachbus.fpic.co.uk/p56047400.html">18140</a>; <a href="http://jimmyshengukbuses2.fotopic.net/p54854843.html">22186</a></p><p><strong>Wednesday:</strong>
<a href="http://clivesbuscollections.fotopic.net/p56658458.html">19463</a>; (<a href="http://railshots.fotopic.net/p57365094.html">158882</a>); <a href="http://daveheath.fotopic.net/p52981416.html">22612</a>; <a href="http://jacksbusphotos.fotopic.net/p50886601.html">16462</a>; <a href="http://steve-buckley.fotopic.net/p57021643.html">34003</a>; <a href="http://first.fotopic.net/p49437215.html">33203</a>; <a href="http://southyorkshirebus.fotopic.net/p48401317.html">22417</a>; <a href="http://steve-buckley.fotopic.net/p57147295.html">19076</a>; (<a href="http://gallerybrad.fotopic.net/p57108803.html">158864</a>)</p><p><strong>Thursday:</strong>
<a href="http://jimmyshengukbuses2.fotopic.net/p43979996.html">18407</a>; <a href="http://first.fotopic.net/p56620870.html">53613</a>; <a href="http://steve-buckley.fotopic.net/p57012157.html">22621</a>; <a href="http://buses.fotopic.net/p57624206.html">16504</a></p><p><strong>Friday:</strong>
<a href="http://poultyphotos.fotopic.net/p50624952.html">20615</a>; <a href="http://buses.fotopic.net/p57624211.html">33037</a>; <a href="http://poultyphotos.fotopic.net/p50624899.html">16643</a>; <a href="http://southhantsbus.fotopic.net/p57143009.html">16745</a>; <a href="http://tomsbusphotos.fotopic.net/p50628440.html">18517</a></p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-34853932144119092612009-04-27T17:50:00.002+01:002009-04-27T17:55:32.464+01:00In retrospect<div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsZlbNOTGD4K-vUVnbVgWYo2EXtXSM17kMO00iU8flpl0P5P_Y-HE3aa2QiBC1xMU-3L1sZGq0VXmUOSrfisNyi-Ob2JmIzX53gESLOQaIqr4KnVc4TZTmF1sYl0ZkHwII4gP1FAfMSyW/s320/Image006.jpg" alt="First bus in Thurso" /></div><p>I am back home from my trip after a weekend relaxing (and gently roasting) in Brighton. It has been an amazing challenge, and I've seen some wonderful places and talked to some interesting people along the way. The trip has highlighted the vast differences in culture and landscape on this island of ours, but also many things that tie us together. I've been particularly fascinated by the way accents change from place to place, as well as looking at how towns and villages have developed – some more successfully than others. Another interesting concept is how we try and cash in on history, plus how the UK's high streets are performing in the current economic climate.</p><p>On the social media front, it's been quite a steep learning curve. I didn't set off with the most modern equipment available, but hopefully this will prove that you don't need an iPhone to go off exploring and reporting back in real-time. I'd like to thank Lucy at <a href="http://www.virginmobile.co.uk/">Virgin Media</a>: although she couldn't offer me anything in the way of mobile internet, she was able to lend me a spare Nokia 3120 Classic which came in very useful when the battery of my own 6300 started suffering under the intensive usage that it is isn't normally subject it to. I still don't quite understand how live video-streaming works (RTFM!) but thanks to <a href="http://www.qik.com/">Qik</a> for not shouting at me. Inspiration for the trip probably came from <a href="http://socialmediamanchester.ning.com/">#smc_mcr</a> and I'd like to especially thank <a href="http://14sandwiches.com/">Martin</a> and <a href="http://technicalfault.net/">Josh</a> for their encouragement.</p><p>On the transport side of things, the majority of mishaps along the way were caused by my own assumptions and misjudgements as opposed to being problems with the system. All the journeys I was at the correct bus stop for operated. Most were on time, with only two services ten minutes late, a couple more five minutes late. The biggest delay was on the very last leg and was caused by a road traffic accident: we arrived in Brighton 24 minutes late, which is rather outside the control of the bus company. Comparing route branding and publicity along the way threw up some interesting differences over what might appear at first sight to be the epitome of a corporate culture.</p><p>This was always going to be an independent adventure, but I would like to thank a few people at <a href="http://www.stagecoachbus.com/">Stagecoach</a> for their offers of assistance and general help with queries. A big thank you especially to Phill at Chesterfield and Ray(?) at Lincoln for sending me free day tickets: I shall be donating the equivalent amount to <a href="http://wwww.christies.org/">Christie's appeal</a> on their behalf. Also my thanks go out to Nigel and Linda based way out West, and also to June at Peterborough. I did also correspond with a very helpful man from the West Scotland division, but unfortunately have misplaced his email.</p><p>Finally, I'd like to thank everyone who has been following my adventures on <a href="http://twitter.com/">Twitter</a> or on this blog. This includes family, friends and colleagues, especially Anthony for lending me his camera and Mark at <a href="http://www.kaonix.com/">Kaonix</a> who responded to the challenge with his usual vigour! I've raised over £300 for The Christie hospital in Manchester – if you'd like to help raise this total further then you can still <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/britainbybus">make a donation online at Justgiving</a>. <em>Thank you to you all.</em></p><h4>What next?</h4><p>There'll still be a few items to come here: I'll be explaining in more detail what went wrong and why; there'll be an award ceremony covering various categories; plus I have a lot of photos to sift through, the best of which I'll share with you online.</p><div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2DXGyaOFk4lp10MXAxnvO_8knk-Jw2CH7BblM3dWaT8w5pnHSxAQklPbfTxkmpnaCmvXerU9if2VCkEqMdoYoVHAmQk3DuMKfmqTP2U4VjRV0DUgbzpYPK6WSUSsyjBjaawz-IMb6o2VI/s320/Image0189.jpg" alt="Last bus in Brighton" /></div>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-76971569039395066372009-04-27T12:27:00.004+01:002009-04-27T18:04:52.826+01:00Day 6 – Twitter Digest<div class="image-float-right" style="border:0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FCFGcd-PL38Mb2gqSVlFIx7rpp8Zf4_RCCcr-PwuPhQiOXr_PHxdjBbcBxTagphyphenhyphenUzhiRQfHCVWcVE5TFElUeqvYICgaRcesd_8T8LFyyjgIObtGov_DsAUY7Lp3H54KmF1hG7g2w0Fm/s400/twitter-logo.png" alt="Twitter" /></div><p>The final day sees a rather leisurely jaunt through the South Downs and then the long CoastLiner service from Havant to Brighton, our final destination.</p><ul><li>Bed too big and too comfy. Decide to spend another hour here, take breakfast and catch a later bus rather than spend 2 hours in Alton. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1601307576/">6:14 AM</a></li><li>Riskier connections though... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1601311310/">6:15 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vr3h">http://twitpic.com/3vr3h</a> - The "Good Morning" viking bids you good morning. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1601998967/">8:46 AM</a></li><li>Fridays during college term, a duplicate bus is run on the 0900 to Basingstoke. Large youthful queue here :) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602028160/">8:53 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vrj7">http://twitpic.com/3vrj7</a> - Don't miss the last bus home! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602063378/">9:03 AM</a></li><li>So I only have to spend 6 mins in Alton with my revised plan, instead of 2 hours, but I do have to spend 40 mins in Basingstoke instead. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602074861/">9:05 AM</a></li><li>Last day of challenge, and my thoughts are increasingly towards the end rather than the means. It has been quite a journey so far! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602082763/">9:08 AM</a></li><li>Just passed Twinings offices. Hope they aren't holding @<a href="http://twitter.com/stephenfry">stephenfry</a> hostage still. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602107423/">9:14 AM</a></li><li>The relief bus has overtaken us. We're comfortably full but it only has two people on it. Presumably it fills up from Whitchurch onwards. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602162922/">9:29 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vsbx">http://twitpic.com/3vsbx</a> - The hand bag shop: essential village service. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602180807/">9:34 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vt9h">http://twitpic.com/3vt9h</a> - Artwork in Basingstoke travel shop. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602316359/">10:11 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vtkn">http://twitpic.com/3vtkn</a> - Make your own milkshake at ShakeAway <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602356332/">10:22 AM</a></li><li>My choice: Terry's Chocolate Orange and Raspberries <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602372877/">10:26 AM</a></li><li>On the bus. The irregular 28 to Alton. 5 mins late. 6 min connection. Will I end up spending 2 hours in Alton anyhow? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602489340/">10:58 AM</a></li><li>This bus looks like it may have had a past life. There's the remains of an aircon, and a multitude of hanging straps. Hong Kong perhaps? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602508972/">11:03 AM</a></li><li>It used to have two doors as well. It wouldn't need them for the load it is currently carrying. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602545105/">11:13 AM</a></li><li>Ah pants. It was within my grasp and I failed at the last. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602676264/">11:47 AM</a></li><li>If I'd got off in the town centre instead of staying on until the rail station, I'd be on the 72 now. But which stop? So I didn't. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602729336/">12:00 AM</a></li><li>The 72 pulled out as the 28 arrived. But I think maybe this is good, stretch my legs for a bit. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602737318/">12:02 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vwf6">http://twitpic.com/3vwf6</a> - Alton station cafe <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602755171/">12:07 AM</a></li><li>Things to do in Alton #1 - steam trains. Note: no weekday service out of season. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602771455/">12:10 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vwph">http://twitpic.com/3vwph</a> - A Stagecoach train with South West Trains <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602794044/">12:16 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vx5d">http://twitpic.com/3vx5d</a> - No services today <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602857783/">12:30 AM</a></li><li>Things to do in Alton #2 - sweet Fanny Adams. No, seriously, she is buried in the cemetery here. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602889887/">12:36 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3vxoe">http://twitpic.com/3vxoe</a> - Sweet Fanny Adams <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602943845/">12:48 AM</a></li><li>The rivers in this past of the world are shallow, crystal clear, and with clumps of greendry poking out of the top. Beautiful. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1602979548/">12:55 AM</a></li><li>t3h n3xt bu5 is @ 1337 <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603021392/">1:03 PM</a></li><li>Whilst some towns are havens for senior citizens, Alton is full of sixth formers at the local college. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603062600/">1:10 PM</a></li><li>Made it. Arrive Petersfield 1416, depart service 37 to Havant at 1426. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603237608/">1:41 PM</a></li><li>The name of the pub in Liss is "Whistle Stop" - ha ha. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603388611/">2:04 PM</a></li><li>Level crossings, eh? Awaiting next bus at Petersfield station. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603529374/">2:24 PM</a></li><li>She has arrived. Buses use the feminine, in similar fashion to other great travelling hulks of metal. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603575323/">2:30 PM</a></li><li>The South Downs don't look con that brilliant when viewed from the A3. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603631063/">2:38 PM</a></li><li>We leave the A3 and all is tranquil again. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603647758/">2:40 PM</a></li><li>A bit of excitement - a bus in front has broken down. Passengers transfer onto ours. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603671833/">2:43 PM</a></li><li>A woman who has just got on in Waterlooville was waiting for the bus which broke down. She appears happy gossiping about the fact to every1. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1603926409/">3:15 PM</a></li><li>Now in Havant. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1604236074/">3:52 PM</a></li><li>Would you believe it? I am on my final leg of the trip - scheduled to arrive in Brighton at 1915. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1604388076/">4:09 PM</a></li><li>Though it is advertised as a through service, a disclaimer in the tt warns that vehicles may be swapped in Chichester and Worthing. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1604406168/">4:11 PM</a></li><li>What is the CCA Art Bus? Just passed it in Emsworth. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1604464084/">4:18 PM</a></li><li>Just seen the sea! That makes all four coasts - North (Thurso), East (Stonehaven), West (Hest Bank) and South (Chichester Harbour). <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1604599251/">4:33 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3wagz">http://twitpic.com/3wagz</a> - Chichester Cathedral <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1604701460/">4:45 PM</a></li><li>Bognor Regis is the next town en route. Hopefully get a closer look at the sea... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1604880268/">5:05 PM</a></li><li>Hmm. Not too many flashes of sea on show. May have to wait until gone Worthing for the unadulterated viewing. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605034744/">5:22 PM</a></li><li>The Body Shop HQ in Littlehampton appears to be in the shape of a pagoda. Not quite sure what this achieves. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605312918/">5:54 PM</a></li><li>A bus driver in the opposite direction warned us of a crash on the dual carriageway. We're in the queue now. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605460303/">6:11 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3whuz">http://twitpic.com/3whuz</a> - Not going anywhere for a while :( <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605518417/">6:19 PM</a></li><li>Past the scene now. Looked nasty: bike and a car, windscreen of the latter badly messed up. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605657293/">6:36 PM</a></li><li>Probably around 25 mins late. Can we make up any time? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605672102/">6:37 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3wjue">http://twitpic.com/3wjue</a> - Pie champion - well done. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605715767/">6:43 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3wl04">http://twitpic.com/3wl04</a> - The sea at last - Worthing Pier <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605826522/">6:56 PM</a></li><li>21 mins late leaving Worthing. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605847972/">6:58 PM</a></li><li>The route is finally doing justice to its "CoastLiner" moniker: views out over the bay. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1605909819/">7:06 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3wooz">http://twitpic.com/3wooz</a> - The back of the bus I have just got off. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1606190369/">7:39 PM</a></li><li>Yes, I have finally arrived in Brighton after 6 days bus travel across the length of the country. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1606217538/">7:42 PM</a></li><li>I'm quite three, so I hope you'll accept a debrief at a later point, but thanks to everyone who has been following my adventure. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1606243406/">7:45 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3wpg3">http://twitpic.com/3wpg3</a> - Brighton welcomes me. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1606267454/">7:48 PM</a></li></ul>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-59020846872212408062009-04-23T21:00:00.000+01:002009-04-23T21:00:00.663+01:00Day 6 – Preview<div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4N4fxTrFmVaS-8uIFVEqMqpEtPQR5JcUBSdXGtpsK-8RP8Sufj-RfgfPuDMNkqLuP1KkbNRLZjK0zrYok-CtfyAVmTwu8Fc1d4LLhIPBbXEoA7uT2xp0B-pTWjV9lGKezBtsHoo7YtTu/s1600/uk-map-day-6.png" alt="Britain by Bus Day 6: Andover to Brighton" /></div><p>The final day. Over the South Downs and along the south coast.</p><h4>Day 6 Schedule</h4><p><strong>Service 76</strong><br/>0715 departs Andover, Bus Station<br/>0824 arrives Basingstoke, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 28</strong><br/>0850 departs Basingstoke, Bus Station<br/>0944 arrives Alton, Railway Station</p><p><strong>Service 72</strong><br/>1145 departs Alton, Railway Station<br/>1244 arrives Petersfield, Railway Station</p><p><strong>Service 37</strong><br/>1326 departs Petersfield, Railway Station<br/>1441 arrives Havant, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 700</strong><br/>1508 departs Havant, Bus Station<br/>1825 arrives Brighton, Pool Valley</p><h4>Day 6 Mileage</h4><p>114 miles</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-22731252555035604632009-04-23T20:45:00.003+01:002009-04-23T20:50:44.016+01:00Day 5 – Twitter Digest<div class="image-float-right" style="border:0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FCFGcd-PL38Mb2gqSVlFIx7rpp8Zf4_RCCcr-PwuPhQiOXr_PHxdjBbcBxTagphyphenhyphenUzhiRQfHCVWcVE5TFElUeqvYICgaRcesd_8T8LFyyjgIObtGov_DsAUY7Lp3H54KmF1hG7g2w0Fm/s400/twitter-logo.png" alt="Twitter" /></div><p>Day 5's journey from east to west, Peterborough to Swindon, and then south to Andover.</p><ul><li>So with last night's change of accommodation, my first bus today isn't until gone 9pm. Having a bit of a lie in and a bath. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592143973/">7:21 AM</a></li><li>Where 9pm is equal to 9am. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592147586/">7:21 AM</a></li><li>Music to accompany breakfast: Just A Fool To Believe on panpipes. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592408605/">8:25 AM</a></li><li>Total Eclipse Of The Heart on panpipes. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592421067/">8:28 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tjap">http://twitpic.com/3tjap</a> - Peterborough bus station - X4 at ten past nine. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592536012/">8:59 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tjt3">http://twitpic.com/3tjt3</a> - We're heading cross-country. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592606303/">9:18 AM</a></li><li>Question: can you buy the version of the Dayrider Gold ticket that is valid on the X5 on the X4? Answer: yes we can. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592615115/">9:20 AM</a></li><li>A bit of an overcast day so far. Maybe the run will burn off some of the clouds later on. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592650685/">9:30 AM</a></li><li>So last night, after getting the wrong bus and being generally late, I arrive at the B+B to find no-one answering the door. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592662523/">9:33 AM</a></li><li>Both of my mobiles are low on juice, but I manage to contact the owners eventually. They are fully booked and think I am due 2mrw. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592668441/">9:35 AM</a></li><li>With my phones about to expire, I am left to find somewhere else to sleep. B+B opposite looks to have vacancies but no one in. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592676361/">9:37 AM</a></li><li>The hotel in town is fully booked because of horse trials in nearby Belton. The Best Western is full too. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592685680/">9:40 AM</a></li><li>Chap at the BW finds there are rooms at the Ramada, but I'm on foot and it's out in the sticks. I set out, past the station. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592693343/">9:42 AM</a></li><li>I decide to see when the next East Midlands Train to P'bro is - 30 mins. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592698243/">9:43 AM</a></li><li>"Sack this: I'm going to P'bro to try my luck at the Great Northern opp the stn." So I do. I am in luck. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592705856/">9:45 AM</a></li><li>And that is the tale of woe from last night. At least I had a later start this morning and no dodgy connection this morning. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592715367/">9:48 AM</a></li><li>"Sack this: I'm going to P'bro to try my luck at the Great Northern opp the stn." So I do. I am in luck. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592718158/">9:49 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tkq4">http://twitpic.com/3tkq4</a> - Make or break: pensive on the way to Peterborough <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592734333/">9:54 AM</a></li><li>A happy bus full of villagers heading into Corby for shopping. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592743333/">9:56 AM</a></li><li>Home of the trouser press. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592749254/">9:58 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tl1a">http://twitpic.com/3tl1a</a> - New rail station at Corby <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592781704/">10:07 AM</a></li><li>New driver in Kettering. Greets the lower deck with a hearty "Morning". Wearing a red rose. Happy St George's Day. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592891619/">10:38 AM</a></li><li>I've been following bad clip art lady who seems to appear on the back of all the local buses. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592982817/">11:04 AM</a></li><li>She's carrying a bag of groceries and has a look on her face that is a combination of surprise, shame and secret gratification. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1592996030/">11:08 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tmzm">http://twitpic.com/3tmzm</a> - Northampton's gloomy undercover bus station <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593106323/">11:38 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tnhr">http://twitpic.com/3tnhr</a> - The bus is often overtaken. Here it overtakes. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593184338/">11:58 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3toj3">http://twitpic.com/3toj3</a> - Milton Keynes <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593340470/">12:34 AM</a></li><li>I come from a New Town, and I've been downtown in the US. None of that prepared me for Milton Keynes though. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593368061/">12:40 AM</a></li><li>This place feels totally alien after having traversed several hundred miles of "organic" town planning. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593376599/">12:42 AM</a></li><li>I'm on the bus again -X5 to Oxford. Leather seats. Plush. Gonna try out the wi fi. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593727850/">1:46 PM</a></li><li>Plug socket? Check. Wi-fi access? Check. We have lift off. Brilliant! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593773617/">1:54 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3trvo">http://twitpic.com/3trvo</a> - Recursion. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593846874/">2:05 PM</a></li><li>Yesterday's delayed Twitter digest: <a href="http://is.gd/u4Xm">http://is.gd/u4Xm</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1593936676/">2:18 PM</a></li><li>So using wi fi on the move was fun. Possibly not enough legroom for putting on lap, but is reasonable enough on adjoining seat. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594121280/">2:44 PM</a></li><li>On the outskirts of Oxford now. Never been here before. Never really wanted to: my heart lies with Cambridge ;) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594136367/">2:46 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tugh">http://twitpic.com/3tugh</a> - Another bad clipart lady. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594248198/">3:01 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tvet">http://twitpic.com/3tvet</a> - Lots of bikes. Everywhere. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594379882/">3:18 PM</a></li><li>Guess who's on a bus again? That's right, me. 66 to Swindon. Photos may not be forthcoming - the windows are slightly murky. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594625563/">3:48 PM</a></li><li>This route's been a little disappointing so far, sticking to the main A420 and not taking any amusing diversions down unsuitable roads. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594774903/">4:06 PM</a></li><li>Finally. Taking a trip into the heart of Kingston Bagpuize. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594799671/">4:09 PM</a></li><li>We avoided Hinton Waldrist though. Boo. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594849233/">4:15 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3tzj7">http://twitpic.com/3tzj7</a> - Which bus stop does it go from? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594945378/">4:27 PM</a></li><li>Have I ever seen a branch of Budgens before? Well, I have now anyway. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1594975618/">4:30 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3u0ou">http://twitpic.com/3u0ou</a> - Top secret MOD training facility. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595098240/">4:45 PM</a></li><li>"...and when I think of Swindon I think of sun, and I'm finally going to Swindon" #songinmyhead <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595143776/">4:50 PM</a></li><li>Major excitement - just traversed the Magic Roundabout - 5 mini roundabouts making up one big one. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595231207/">5:00 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3u2d3">http://twitpic.com/3u2d3</a> - Swindon rush hour. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595319209/">5:11 PM</a></li><li>Last bus of the day already. 1715 to Marlborough, service 70, which runs through to Andover as service 80. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595381935/">5:18 PM</a></li><li>Heading for Lawne and Coate. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595489951/">5:31 PM</a></li><li>Wowzers! Bus of the day here. Small, winding roads, thatched cottages, some brilliant place names ahead. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595649491/">5:51 PM</a></li><li>Draycot Foliat. Check. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595657318/">5:52 PM</a></li><li>Ogbourne St George. Check. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595673841/">5:54 PM</a></li><li>Ogbournes St Andrew and Maizey. Check. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595704716/">5:58 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3u5ya">http://twitpic.com/3u5ya</a> - Marlborough <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595747658/">6:04 PM</a></li><li>Lot of teenagers upstairs for the route on to Andover. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595759512/">6:05 PM</a></li><li>One of the girls has a piercing tone of voice that suggests she may have a pony. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595807466/">6:12 PM</a></li><li>Collingbourne Kingston and Collingsbourne Ducie. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1595910389/">6:26 PM</a></li><li>Arriving in Andover now. Apparently the town is situated in the Test Valley. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1596046479/">6:43 PM</a></li><li>Anybody out there who lives in Andover? Am in the John Russell Fox making use of the wifi. Fancy a pint? :) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1596840801/">8:21 PM</a></li></ul>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-62211669866063664372009-04-23T14:02:00.000+01:002009-04-23T14:14:58.841+01:00Day 4 – Twitter Digest<div class="image-float-right" style="border:0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FCFGcd-PL38Mb2gqSVlFIx7rpp8Zf4_RCCcr-PwuPhQiOXr_PHxdjBbcBxTagphyphenhyphenUzhiRQfHCVWcVE5TFElUeqvYICgaRcesd_8T8LFyyjgIObtGov_DsAUY7Lp3H54KmF1hG7g2w0Fm/s400/twitter-logo.png" alt="Twitter" /></div><p>A little late, but in order to make up for that, this post has been collated and posted whilst <em>on</em> a coach!</p><ul><li>Good morning. Day 4 and I have just left home. With sunglasses this time. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582584491/">7:04 AM</a></li><li>I am walking up Burnage Lane to catch the 42 to Stockport. Later on in the day I'll be catching a 43 and another 42. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582595657/">7:06 AM</a></li><li>My itinerary for today is on my blog. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582600760/">7:07 AM</a></li><li>On the bus on the short trip into Stockport. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582687521/">7:27 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://qik.com/video/1521614">http://qik.com/video/1521614</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582716866/">7:34 AM</a></li><li>My brown tinted shades make it look much warmer than it actually is. Heh. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582781930/">7:49 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rbay">http://twitpic.com/3rbay</a> - Bus service # 158... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582815519/">7:58 AM</a></li><li>As predicted, I have to stand. For the want of two extra carriages. Absolute rubbish. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582825816/">8:00 AM</a></li><li>Lord Adonis should have been made to spend his holiday riding back and forth between Liverpool and Sheffield #uktrain <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582834931/">8:02 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rbo5">http://twitpic.com/3rbo5</a> - At least this is a refurbished train I suppose. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582868568/">8:11 AM</a></li><li>#songinmyhead in honour of Sheffield: Walk Like A Panther by All Seeing I; I Love My Life by Pulp <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1582954505/">8:32 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rddp">http://twitpic.com/3rddp</a> - Bacon and egg sandwich al fresco. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583119152/">9:17 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rdjk">http://twitpic.com/3rdjk</a> - Super tram! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583143426/">9:24 AM</a></li><li>Am happy to report I am now #onthebus for the remainder of the day. Arrive Grantham 1855 :) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583196907/">9:38 AM</a></li><li>Bit of a problem: camera battery recharge #fail last night. Will source some replacements later. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583224379/">9:46 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3reeh">http://twitpic.com/3reeh</a> - Single decker, new in 2008. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583267767/">9:59 AM</a></li><li>So ends my brief sojourn to Yorkshire. In Derbyshire now: Dronfield to be exact. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583280204/">10:02 AM</a></li><li>Local dialect update: thanks duck. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583358767/">10:24 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rfuv">http://twitpic.com/3rfuv</a> - The famous crooked spire of Chesterfield <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583490224/">11:02 AM</a></li><li>The weather is so lovely here that I skipped a bus and will catch the 1118 to Worksop. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583539777/">11:16 AM</a></li><li>I'm #onthebus arrive Worksop 1232. Standard 90s double decker. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583567261/">11:23 AM</a></li><li>Sitting on the top deck front offside seat on an eastbound bus at noon on a sunny day in the northern hemisphere is a bad idea. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583620826/">11:37 AM</a></li><li>Beware the Beast of Bolsover, for I am there. Old Nottinghamshire mining area. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583666069/">11:49 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rh7h">http://twitpic.com/3rh7h</a> - Lovely roundabout in Barlborough <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583701549/">11:58 AM</a></li><li>Just seen: Dolphin Fish Bar, near Clowne Campus. Shurely Dolphin Mammal Bar? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583713539/">12:00 AM</a></li><li>More food establishments in Creswell: Yummy Yummy, Crusty Pantry, Dolphin's Pizza & Grill <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583766452/">12:13 AM</a></li><li>Apologies to Dennis Skinner: Bolsover is of course in Derbyshire still. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583773547/">12:14 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3ri39">http://twitpic.com/3ri39</a> - Sherwood Forest? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583836759/">12:29 AM</a></li><li>Roadworks outside Worksop. Been stood for about 5 mins. BT down a manhole. Moving again. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583857233/">12:33 AM</a></li><li>Students of Robin Hood folklore will know that Worksop is home to Gladys and Snooker. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583896614/">12:41 AM</a></li><li>I've not seen a lot of Worksop but need to catch the next bus. There's a river and a canal and Castle Hill. Oh well, next time? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1583966149/">12:55 AM</a></li><li>Lots of people #onthebus but no talk about #budget. Perhaps shows how far many people are removed from politics? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584139702/">1:27 PM</a></li><li>My second route 42 in a day. Only a short 25 min punt to Retford, but left 10 down by my reckoning. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584151420/">1:29 PM</a></li><li>We live in instant times, but you can't beat a bit of a think and a digest. So look forward to my smash hit Britain By Bus book... ;) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584200852/">1:37 PM</a></li><li>Oh dear. I have made another boo boo. I got on the bus in the wrong direction and am back in Worksop. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584273405/">1:48 PM</a></li><li>Two other people at this other bus stop nearly made the same mistake I did. Cos I have a day ticket, the driver didn't spot my error. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584329789/">1:57 PM</a></li><li>So the mop up begins. I am really #onthebus to Retford this time. Arrive 1430. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584398872/">2:07 PM</a></li><li>I'm unlikely to catch my original connection on the 96 which leaves at the same time as this bus arrives. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584410425/">2:09 PM</a></li><li>The next bus is 1555 to Gainsborough arrive 1655. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584419425/">2:10 PM</a></li><li>So catch the 1710 to Lincoln and the 1805 to Grantham arrive 1925. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584433378/">2:13 PM</a></li><li>The next bus is 1555 to Gainsborough arrive 1655. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584439340/">2:13 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rmdf">http://twitpic.com/3rmdf</a> - The Retford bus. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584455209/">2:16 PM</a></li><li>Looks like I'm going to be spending 90 mins in Retford. Ah well - it's a beautiful day and the town looks pretty enough. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584577153/">2:33 PM</a></li><li>Music in Retford bus station: Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584615608/">2:38 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rnlt">http://twitpic.com/3rnlt</a> - Nice clean bus station in Retford <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584633247/">2:41 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3roat">http://twitpic.com/3roat</a> - Something to pass the time <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584737293/">2:55 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rom0">http://twitpic.com/3rom0</a> - The Mattersey Boat <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584786245/">3:01 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3ror3">http://twitpic.com/3ror3</a> - Thomas has six wheels you know. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584808921/">3:04 PM</a></li><li>Retford really does look like a lovely little town. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584913641/">3:18 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rpo4">http://twitpic.com/3rpo4</a> - <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1584933316/">3:21 PM</a></li><li>The market square reminds me a bit of Newark, where I've visited before. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585004556/">3:30 PM</a></li><li>Back at the bus station. Music playing: Take These Broken Wings (And Learn To Fly Again Etc) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585124880/">3:45 PM</a></li><li>She's Got Betty Davies' Eyes <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585213488/">3:56 PM</a></li><li>I am #onthebus again. This journey is essentially for school kids in Retford returning home to villages by the Trent. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585301698/">4:07 PM</a></li><li>Good grief, I feel like an intruder on this bus where everyone knows everyone else! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585495239/">4:30 PM</a></li><li>There's been a water bomb explode on the bomber rather than the bombee. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585518043/">4:33 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rugv">http://twitpic.com/3rugv</a> - View from the top of the plateau <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585590192/">4:42 PM</a></li><li>Despite the youthful exuberance, this really is a pretty route through small villages of red brick cottages. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585603523/">4:44 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rv8t">http://twitpic.com/3rv8t</a> - <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585685041/">4:54 PM</a></li><li>Will I make the next 2 connections? Touch and go. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585735384/">5:00 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3rw5y">http://twitpic.com/3rw5y</a> - The mighty Trent <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585802798/">5:08 PM</a></li><li>Made it with a minute to spare. #onthebus to Lincoln, hoping to make a 5 min connection there. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585845532/">5:13 PM</a></li><li>If I miss it, the next bus to Grantham won't be until 2045 hrs! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585862176/">5:15 PM</a></li><li>There are 3 power stations in my field of vision, all with big cooling towers. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1585984317/">5:30 PM</a></li><li>I can see Lincoln Cathedral atop its hill in the distance. Good run so far, fingers crossed. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586094392/">5:44 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3ryyz">http://twitpic.com/3ryyz</a> - Saxilby <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586129848/">5:48 PM</a></li><li>Classic bus driver maneuver then: open doors at a T-junction for better right-turn visibility. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586144822/">5:50 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3s0d1">http://twitpic.com/3s0d1</a> - Wahey! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586287986/">6:08 PM</a></li><li>Again, I made it with about a minute to spare. So all in, I will only be arriving in Grantham 30 mins late. Hooray for planning (and luck!) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586367126/">6:18 PM</a></li><li>Best village name of the day: Boothby Graffoe. Even better than Clowne. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586512815/">6:37 PM</a></li><li>Royalists drink in The Lion & Royal, Parliamentarians in The King's Head? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586538988/">6:40 PM</a></li><li>Good evening Grantham. Pleased to meet you! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586828532/">7:16 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3s6c2">http://twitpic.com/3s6c2</a> - The Cake Shop <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1586926918/">7:29 PM</a></li><li>There is catastrophe in the air. More later. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1587666536/">9:01 PM</a></li><li>To cut a long story short (for now) I have undertaken the first leg from tomorrow tonight and am stopping in Peterborough. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1588061907/">9:50 PM</a></li><li>Am at Wetherspoons having a commiserative stroke congratulatory pint. Or two. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1588287639/">10:18 PM</a></li><li>Three: couldn't resist the lure of Raspberry Fool by Caledonian. That fruity aftertaste - mmm! A real good treat! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1588513800/">10:46 PM</a></li></ul>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-10655628589439530372009-04-22T23:59:00.001+01:002009-04-28T21:04:52.148+01:00Day 5 – Preview<p class="highlight">In case of emergency internet fail, here is Thursday's itinerary.</p><div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVJM6NHeqEB9_dWEh5QNVFrtIBPqTlEk5J2utGs4y-1ZYIV-9r2wwHhn3F5izcvtj495sRut4Q4PdSKy43Sa1cAZCvF2CZVgd-j9wz2BrCG1bt-PlPC3g2AmfBwmDRt9leNQFJa8ZSecg/s1600/uk-map-day-5.png" alt="Britain by Bus Day 5: Grantham to Andover" /></div><h4>Day 5 Schedule</h4><p><strong><a href="http://britainbybus.blogspot.com/2009/02/mind-gap.html">Gap 2</a>: East Midlands Trains</strong><br/>0825 departs Grantham, Railway Station<br/>0859 arrives Peterborough, Railway Station</p><p><strong>Service X4</strong><br/>0910 departs Peterborough, Queensgate Bus Station<br/>1220 arrives Milton Keynes Central, Railway Station</p><p><strong>Service X5</strong><br/>1315 departs Milton Keynes Central, Railway Station<br/>1355 arrives Bicester, Bure Place</p><p><strong>Service S5</strong><br/>1427 departs Bicester, Bure Place<br/>1503 arrives Oxford, Magdalen Street</p><p><strong>Service 66</strong><br/>1545 departs Oxford, Bus Station<br/>1700 arrives Swindon, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 70</strong><br/>1715 departs Swindon, Bus Station<br/>1800 arrives Marlborough, High Street</p><p><strong>Service 80</strong><br/>1802 departs Marlborough, High Street<br/>1854 arrives Andover, Bus Station</p><h4>Day 5 Mileage</h4><p>177 miles</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-20220873261645575782009-04-21T23:18:00.000+01:002009-04-21T23:19:27.189+01:00Day 4 – Preview<div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSWcYevWoaLH97CsccX8naP7qW2cVz0XM83Y4kRqcAZ8Yf2d_OSC39uwafddTeslBWautC-J1Y9RM_LlWJ3LFVG5H80eFXxBPsNYAPdMvtY6TcK1mRJVQgIETMsZwcx5fsJovFL-x8yd_/s1600/uk-map-day-4.png" alt="Britain by Bus Day 4: Stockport to Grantham" /></div><p>In which I bend the rules slightly by catching a train to Sheffield. They're on roughly the same latitude, so it shouldn't make too much difference in the grand north to south scheme of things. Plus, I'll be catching an East Midlands Trains service, and that's a franchise operated by Stagecoach. It doesn't have a great reputation, so I fear this may be the one time when I have to stand – irony of ironies for those who believe "train > bus".</p><p>It's then a quick succession of fairly short routes through the towns of Bassetlaw and then on into Lincolnshire, finishing the day in Margaret Thatcher's old stomping ground of Grantham.</p><h4>Day 4 Schedule</h4><p><strong>Service 42</strong><br/>0719 departs East Didsbury, Parrs Wood Road<br/>0731 arrives Stockport, Bus Station</p><p><strong><a href="http://britainbybus.blogspot.com/2009/02/mind-gap.html">Gap 1</a>: East Midlands Trains</strong><br/>0754 departs Stockport, Railway Station<br/>0838 arrives Sheffield, Railway Station</p><p><strong>Service 43</strong><br/>0931 departs Sheffield, Flat Street<br/>1035 arrives Chesterfield, New Beetwell Street</p><p><strong>Service 77</strong><br/>1045 departs Chesterfield, New Beetwell Street<br/>1202 arrives Worksop, Hardy Street</p><p><strong>Service 42</strong><br/>1305 departs Worksop, Hardy Street<br/>1330 arrives Retford, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 96</strong><br/>1430 departs Retford, Bus Station<br/>1530 arrives Gainsborough, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 100</strong><br/>1605 departs Gainsborough, Bus Station<br/>1700 arrives Lincoln, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 1</strong><br/>1735 departs Lincoln, Bus Station<br/>1855 arrives Grantham, Bus Station</p><h4>Day 4 Mileage</h4><p>108 miles</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-55151248914308940532009-04-21T22:58:00.000+01:002009-04-21T22:58:00.493+01:00Day 3 – Twitter Digest<div class="image-float-right" style="border:0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FCFGcd-PL38Mb2gqSVlFIx7rpp8Zf4_RCCcr-PwuPhQiOXr_PHxdjBbcBxTagphyphenhyphenUzhiRQfHCVWcVE5TFElUeqvYICgaRcesd_8T8LFyyjgIObtGov_DsAUY7Lp3H54KmF1hG7g2w0Fm/s400/twitter-logo.png" alt="Twitter" /></div><p>We're traversing the north west of England today, through Cumberland and the old county palatine of Lancaster – via the Lake District.</p><ul><li>If it's a college holiday then we're still on time. If not - we're a little late! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573139251/">7:52 AM</a></li><li>Well it's late either way now. Still no sign. I am the only person at the stop. Hmm. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573189304/">8:04 AM</a></li><li>Just had a conversation with a passer by. He recommends a product called Stay Brite, a pink liquid you can put on the lenses of your gla ... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573232171/">8:15 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://qik.com/video/1514239">http://qik.com/video/1514239</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573247698/">8:19 AM</a></li><li>My contingency plan is to skip Penrith and catch the 0900 service 554 to Keswick. Don't know where the stop is yet. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573267158/">8:24 AM</a></li><li>Just to clarify, although I was rushing a bit, I was at the stop in time to cater for college day variations! :) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573275095/">8:26 AM</a></li><li>I can't find the telephone number for Carlisle depot. All the buses advertise Traveline, but they won't know where the bus is. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573289702/">8:30 AM</a></li><li>Have I really made such a basic mistake? I thought I was at the bus station. Signage is pretty non-existant other than a basic tt at stops. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573329461/">8:40 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pdpu">http://twitpic.com/3pdpu</a> - Mea culpa. 103 doesn't call at The Crescent. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573375165/">8:53 AM</a></li><li>I found the bus station... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573382747/">8:55 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pe4l">http://twitpic.com/3pe4l</a> - Old faithful - possibly one of the buses I travelled on to uni in Lancaster. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573430483/">9:08 AM</a></li><li>So my new time of arrival in Keswick is 1010, with the 556 leaving at 1025. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573439945/">9:10 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pek5">http://twitpic.com/3pek5</a> - Wooden bus stop poles. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573500630/">9:28 AM</a></li><li>Just passed the Black-a-Moor pub in Wigton - a name even worse than The Saracen's Head. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573520235/">9:33 AM</a></li><li>Interesting thing about long bus journies is the change in accents. Local dialect appears to be pseudo Yorkshire/Geordie. Aye. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573535195/">9:37 AM</a></li><li>The peaks in the distance look a bit cloudy and grey. Heading straight towards them. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573560204/">9:45 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pf56">http://twitpic.com/3pf56</a> - Misty wind farm. I expect a shower soon. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573587206/">9:53 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://qik.com/video/1514630">http://qik.com/video/1514630</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573656365/">10:12 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pfv6">http://twitpic.com/3pfv6</a> - Another nearly new ex-Manchester double decker - MX reg. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573703722/">10:27 AM</a></li><li>A lot of free passes - and I'm on a day ticket. I wonder if the driver has taken any cash, even though this dd is half full. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573715809/">10:30 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pgvy">http://twitpic.com/3pgvy</a> - Grasmere - no buses allowed, except for buses. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573864295/">11:13 AM</a></li><li>Back on the mobile net. I stand by my comments about the North West Cumbrian accent :) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573876527/">11:16 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3ph49">http://twitpic.com/3ph49</a> - Yachts on Windermere. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573899252/">11:23 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3phh1">http://twitpic.com/3phh1</a> - Bit of a grey day for an open top bus tour. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573954475/">11:38 AM</a></li><li>It's a constant struggle to maintain am ideal temperature on this bus. Cardie on. Cardie off. Window open. Window shut. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573967323/">11:41 AM</a></li><li>The designated window opener got off at Windermere. Thankfully someone else has taken her place. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1573974538/">11:43 AM</a></li><li>After all the bumps and turns of the past 90 mins, it's a sharp brake that sends my mobile flying off down the aisle with the back off. Doh. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574003283/">11:50 AM</a></li><li>Almost everyone upstairs has got off in Kendal. To buy mintcake perhaps? Driver change. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574038014/">11:59 AM</a></li><li>We are going down some really twisty, narrow lanes around Priest Hutton. I always imagined the 555 to be pretty direct. Obviously not. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574232557/">12:45 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pjr2">http://twitpic.com/3pjr2</a> - Traffic jam in Carnforth. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574299226/">12:59 AM</a></li><li>Turned out to be a brief encounter with some temporary traffic lights. Lost a few minutes. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574311434/">1:01 PM</a></li><li>Hest Bank is one of only 2 places on main West Coast rail line where you can see the sea. View from A6 obscured by houses. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574345532/">1:08 PM</a></li><li>Good place to build houses, there's a lovely seaview. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574350985/">1:09 PM</a></li><li>Just entering Lancaster city limits. Couple of minutes late by my reckoning. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574358748/">1:10 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pknd">http://twitpic.com/3pknd</a> - Lancaster bus station :) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574433154/">1:25 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3plq4">http://twitpic.com/3plq4</a> - Not only does the Queen own Lancaster Castle, she'll send you there if you commit a crime. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574599564/">1:54 PM</a></li><li>A lot of free passes in evidence on the 40 to Preston. Hope some of them will get off soon, as my seat is rather lacking in legroom... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574694380/">2:08 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pmoh">http://twitpic.com/3pmoh</a> - Pensioner day out express <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574747453/">2:17 PM</a></li><li>Galgate comes and goes. The women in front get off, so I nab their seat. Much better. More room under the seat in front. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574821887/">2:28 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pnbt">http://twitpic.com/3pnbt</a> - Driveway up to the university. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574850343/">2:32 PM</a></li><li>Swapped mobiles again. Batteries on main camera are running low. Need to recharge them tonight at home. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574861988/">2:33 PM</a></li><li>Garstang is the world's first #fairtrade market town. No market on today though. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1574935141/">2:44 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3poo6">http://twitpic.com/3poo6</a> - The A6 is littered with garages. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575060028/">3:01 PM</a></li><li>During the fuel protests, we made 2 quick splash-and-dashes on the way home to Lancaster from Blackpool. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575077644/">3:03 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3povk">http://twitpic.com/3povk</a> - A pub. Opposite The Roebuck. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575098624/">3:06 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pq71">http://twitpic.com/3pq71</a> - Bus station cafe chic. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575298171/">3:32 PM</a></li><li>Actually, it's nice to have a break. The next leg to Bolton is every 10 mins, so I'm taking some time out. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575331725/">3:36 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pr05">http://twitpic.com/3pr05</a> - Preston bus stn is biggest in England <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575432014/">3:49 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pr34">http://twitpic.com/3pr34</a> - The modernist style. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575446828/">3:51 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pru3">http://twitpic.com/3pru3</a> - Preston Bus RIP <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575562777/">4:05 PM</a></li><li>On the 1615 to Bolton via Chorley. Or is it a late running 1605? Hard to tell. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575670648/">4:18 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3psoj">http://twitpic.com/3psoj</a> - Sat downstairs for a change. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575694907/">4:21 PM</a></li><li>Very rare that anyone ever sits next to me first on a busy bus. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575701323/">4:22 PM</a></li><li>Is it because I am tall? Or am I considered to be the proverbial nutter? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575712839/">4:23 PM</a></li><li>Nutter count so far: none. Just normal, everyday people. (And me!) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575726594/">4:25 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pt9c">http://twitpic.com/3pt9c</a> - The fuschia bus stops here. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575775020/">4:31 PM</a></li><li>Good news btw. The ticket I bought on my first bus in Carlisle this morning is valid (not available) on buses in Mcr too. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575794309/">4:33 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3puee">http://twitpic.com/3puee</a> - Chor-leh. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575933558/">4:50 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3puoc">http://twitpic.com/3puoc</a> - "Buried alive..." "KHAAAN!" <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1575973492/">4:55 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pv61">http://twitpic.com/3pv61</a> - @<a href="http://twitter.com/technicalfault">technicalfault</a> North West Explorer tckt <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576041067/">5:03 PM</a></li><li>First lady driver of the trip, swapover in Chorley. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576068673/">5:06 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pvua">http://twitpic.com/3pvua</a> - Morrisons Chimney <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576134824/">5:14 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pwfm">http://twitpic.com/3pwfm</a> - Winter Hill up "close". <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576214847/">5:24 PM</a></li><li>I can see Beetham Tower from here, though it wouldn't show up in a camphone shot. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576281459/">5:32 PM</a></li><li>Check out the group on Flickr devoted to how far away you can see Beetham Tower from. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576294613/">5:33 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pxe2">http://twitpic.com/3pxe2</a> - Bunching. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576344307/">5:40 PM</a></li><li>At Bolton. Next bus in half an hour. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576402673/">5:47 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pyef">http://twitpic.com/3pyef</a> - Bolton Town Hall (in shadow) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576468658/">5:55 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pyms">http://twitpic.com/3pyms</a> - Civic quarter - very plush <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576494506/">5:58 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3pyvn">http://twitpic.com/3pyvn</a> - The bus I want - but not the one I want. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576522539/">6:01 PM</a></li><li>I know it's getting on, but I need to share some bus history with you. Patience, dear reader. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576549239/">6:05 PM</a></li><li>Greater Manchester Buses was split into 2 halves for privatisation, North and South. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576561141/">6:06 PM</a></li><li>The northern part was sold to First, the southern half to Stagecoach. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576571443/">6:07 PM</a></li><li>Route 22 between Bolton and Stockport was run by the two depots at each end of the route, which ended up in different hands. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576586560/">6:09 PM</a></li><li>Thus the route is jointly operated by First and Stagecoach today. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576595388/">6:10 PM</a></li><li>Anyone know if there are other First/Stagecoach services, or is this unique? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576608822/">6:12 PM</a></li><li>Last bus today. 7 minutes late, I'd hazard Trafford Centre traffic to blame. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576728460/">6:27 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3q0wc">http://twitpic.com/3q0wc</a> - New seat coverings, old seats. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576755129/">6:30 PM</a></li><li>The ticket machines that Manchester use are rubbish - try to take the ticket before it's finished printing + cutting: paper jam. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576795518/">6:35 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3q2k3">http://twitpic.com/3q2k3</a> - Art deco civic building in Swinton. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1576944646/">6:53 PM</a></li><li>Stagecoach operate the Metrolink trams in Eccles, but there were none to take a snap of when we passed. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577059491/">7:07 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3q4aq">http://twitpic.com/3q4aq</a> - Trafford Centre bus station <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577148733/">7:18 PM</a></li><li>TC BS is a bit open to the elements. Still, better than one might expect from such a pro-motorist organisation. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577167789/">7:20 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3q559">http://twitpic.com/3q559</a> - There are 2 ways to get to Urmston. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577244815/">7:30 PM</a></li><li>We left Bolton 7 mins late but now we're waiting time. I just want to get home asap. Feeling pretty tired. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577301984/">7:37 PM</a></li><li>Chorlton cum Hardy is meant to be a very pleasant place to live. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577322698/">7:39 PM</a></li><li>A dog just got on. Rather reluctantly it has to be said. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577330005/">7:40 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3q632">http://twitpic.com/3q632</a> - The dog. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577350205/">7:43 PM</a></li><li>The dog just got off. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577359317/">7:44 PM</a></li><li>You can tell I'm tired because I'm babbling. Not long now, thankfully! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577373483/">7:45 PM</a></li><li>I'm in Burnage! Thanks for following me today - see you tomorrow! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1577533088/">8:05 PM</a></li></ul>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-75227621714834787262009-04-20T19:50:00.000+01:002009-04-20T19:50:00.808+01:00Day 3 – Preview<div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ykDgTXDV1L_nmoXW_fBGVfwzf5EbtvqXsR8__PtQ4bPgBl7wMb-RjRx5hd5k7OBxX9_TslrHbeSwwb9ZM1fU3Vy2oMzmFjtuiCzo9WJgr2LlzxP7A8oUXEDPfnjxC3ivLDmQIEp11Ne9/s1600/uk-map-day-3.png" alt="Britain by Bus Day 3: Carlisle to Stockport" /></div><p>A later start tomorrow, the first bus isn't until ten to eight. A slightly later finish than normal too, but that's okay because I'm heading home for the night. Lancaster is my old stomping ground, so I'll be pretty familiar from there southwards. I've been to Windermere and Ambleside before, but not on the bus.</p><p>The 125 and 126 run every ten minutes between Preston and Bolton – so I'll just catch one when I tire of Preston.</p><h4>Day 3 Schedule</h4><p><strong>Service 103</strong><br/>0750 departs Carlisle, Bus Station<br/>0834 arrives Penrith, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service X5</strong><br/>0915 departs Penrith, Bus Station<br/>1000 arrives Keswick, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 556</strong><br/>1025 departs Keswick, Bus Station<br/>1312 arrives Lancaster, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 40</strong><br/>1407 departs Lancaster, Bus Station<br/>1524 arrives Preston, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 125</strong><br/>1545 departs Preston, Bus Station<br/>1718 arrives Bolton, Moor Street Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 22</strong><br/>1815 departs Bolton, Moor Street Bus Station<br/>2003 arrives Burnage, Green End</p><h4>Day 3 Mileage</h4><p>157 miles</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-27599191993733602452009-04-20T19:32:00.000+01:002009-04-20T19:32:00.092+01:00Day 2 – Twitter Digest<div class="image-float-right" style="border:0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FCFGcd-PL38Mb2gqSVlFIx7rpp8Zf4_RCCcr-PwuPhQiOXr_PHxdjBbcBxTagphyphenhyphenUzhiRQfHCVWcVE5TFElUeqvYICgaRcesd_8T8LFyyjgIObtGov_DsAUY7Lp3H54KmF1hG7g2w0Fm/s400/twitter-logo.png" alt="Twitter" /></div><p>Day 2 dawns, and I've another lengthy day's travel ahead of me. From East Scotland all the way down over the border and into Carlisle.</p><ul><li><a href="http://qik.com/video/1507241">http://qik.com/video/1507241</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563476409/">6:59 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3n8bv">http://twitpic.com/3n8bv</a> - Day 2 - and we're off! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563524386/">7:10 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3n8km">http://twitpic.com/3n8km</a> - Breakfast on the move - the regular commuters seem to have had theirs already. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563554072/">7:17 AM</a></li><li>Just realised - this nearly new bus started life in Manchester - the MX reg and a sign on the stairs are the give away. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563586724/">7:24 AM</a></li><li>I'm (very) trying but it looks like I may have borked my laptop. Not sure. Stick to mobile for now. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563924188/">8:54 AM</a></li><li>On X54 to Glenrothes arrive 0925. Nice coach with leather seats. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563929994/">8:55 AM</a></li><li>In the Kingdom of Fife. Quite hilly, not big, just lots of them. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563934864/">8:57 AM</a></li><li>On X54 to Glenrothes arrive 0925. Nice coach with leather seats. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563935948/">8:57 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nbk6">http://twitpic.com/3nbk6</a> - Fwd: You can just make out the bridge o'er silvery Tay, Dundee in background. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563967032/">9:06 AM</a></li><li>There is a knack to taking photos from a moving vehicle. I'm getting slightly better, but still not all that. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563971474/">9:07 AM</a></li><li>Whilst I'm here, apologies if I've not replied to you yet. All a bit whistlestop still. Will get round to it. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563977510/">9:09 AM</a></li><li>There is a knack to taking photos from a moving vehicle. I'm getting slightly better, but still not all that. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1563978844/">9:09 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nc9e">http://twitpic.com/3nc9e</a> - Having a nice mug o' tea at the Wee Diner in Glenrothes bus station. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564082939/">9:41 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nctt">http://twitpic.com/3nctt</a> - 5 mins late departing Glenrothes. Curse of the first bus free travel passes are valid on? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564180300/">10:11 AM</a></li><li>For moment there, sat in Dunfermline bus station, I thought we might have our first problem. Kneeling function awry but ok now. Lost 4 mins. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564302019/">10:49 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3ne72">http://twitpic.com/3ne72</a> - First (and only?) section of motorway on my journey. Next stop: Cumbernauld. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564388367/">11:15 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://qik.com/video/1507983">http://qik.com/video/1507983</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564550682/">12:00 AM</a></li><li>I can't recall being to a bigger or more confusing bus station than Glasgow Buchanan. Crazy. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564561952/">12:03 AM</a></li><li>Now on service 4 to Ayr. Arrival 1359 - not the fast route. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564568453/">12:04 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nft6">http://twitpic.com/3nft6</a> - In Glasgow, home of frying, and kiosk only sells salad sandwiches and this Ginster's monstrosity. Bah. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564654962/">12:26 AM</a></li><li>Glasgow suburb should be renamed Colinshaw, after the French. Discuss. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564671608/">12:29 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3ngiy">http://twitpic.com/3ngiy</a> - Current bus is a standard Stagecoach 90s bus with high floor. Reseated. Type runs my local route 169 in Mcr - ... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1564771044/">12:52 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3njmy">http://twitpic.com/3njmy</a> - Eric bridge fail in Ayr? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565266299/">2:20 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nkpq">http://twitpic.com/3nkpq</a> - Not what I expected - another coach, this one with 3 axles. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565449455/">2:47 PM</a></li><li>This is the key connection today: arrive Dumfries 1701. Depart 1710. Lets hope rush hour in Dumfries isn't too bad. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565468613/">2:49 PM</a></li><li>This is literally drive-by tourism. Subjected Ayr town centre to a cursory 20 min walkabout. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565495998/">2:53 PM</a></li><li>School chucking out time. Lots of extra buses take to the highways, some quite old to keep council tax down no doubt. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565584974/">3:06 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nlvv">http://twitpic.com/3nlvv</a> - Does an ergonomicly designed seat back really improve the customer experience? Not sure meself. Just tends to ... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565636460/">3:13 PM</a></li><li>Speaking of old school buses, just seen 2 old Warrington dd's parked up in Auchinleck. I-Spy Bonus Points 1000 <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565765036/">3:30 PM</a></li><li>Left Cumnock on time. Drivers swapped. So has my mobile. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565827924/">3:38 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3no8v">http://twitpic.com/3no8v</a> - Fluffy lambs. Aww. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1565996784/">4:00 PM</a></li><li>30 mins to go. Will Dumfries' notorious traffic jams prevent a smooth change? ;) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566352441/">4:44 PM</a></li><li>I feel like a reality tv producer, trying to ramp up the tension of a pretty dull episode. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566367470/">4:45 PM</a></li><li>Truth is that Glasgow was much more touch and go than rural romps. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566383390/">4:47 PM</a></li><li>Made it to the bus stop on time, but what's this? Gretna? I want to go to Carlisle. Has the tt changed? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566572738/">5:10 PM</a></li><li>I shouldn't have joked about Dumfries and traffic. It's bad enough that there's no sign of the bus as yet. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566590488/">5:13 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nsox">http://twitpic.com/3nsox</a> - Phew. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566638767/">5:19 PM</a></li><li>I think I fell victim to "last bus stop before the county boundary" syndrome. Merseyside does that from time to time. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566674571/">5:23 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nt9b">http://twitpic.com/3nt9b</a> - Unrefurbished standard 90s single decker <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566713845/">5:28 PM</a></li><li>This bus must have worked in Manchester at some point too: there's an old Clippercard machine by the door. First and last buses of the day. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1566804124/">5:39 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3nwle">http://twitpic.com/3nwle</a> - England is behind this man's head. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1567143322/">6:22 PM</a></li><li>I am catching up with all my internets at the B&B. Sorry for the tardiness. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1567589374/">7:20 PM</a></li></ul>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-318978304985332902009-04-20T19:24:00.001+01:002009-04-20T19:38:53.371+01:00Day 2 – Preview<p class="highlight">Slightly delayed, unlike the bus service today. Sorry for any inconvenience!</p><div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUp8NC0GwsOSrDLCzlBxa7YkIRX8hyn55CdmzAfc37hioqby9Cj23UIfo9e-FauX9MzJK6nDGfhL88mvU7w6V0Sy3DkTewiPfZ_AZAGX7B7EVEdt-IUwkWFKmOL5vKQEUR0vIi1i3Kqxht/s1600/uk-map-day-2.png" alt="Britain by Bus Day 2: Montrose to Carlisle" /></div><p>It's the first day back at school, so I'll be jowl and cheek with the regular commuters. The journey into Dundee might be prone to delay, but surely the traffic in Dumfries isn't bad enough to cause any worries. Is it? That last connection is the lynchpin of today's route: the 246 is only every two hours, and miss the 79 and there'll be at least an hour's wait for the next one.</p><h4>Day 2 Schedule</h4><p><strong>Service 39</strong><br/>0705 departs Montrose, High Street<br/>0823 arrives Dundee, Seagate</p><p><strong>Service X54</strong><br/>0840 departs Dundee, Bus Station<br/>0925 arrives Glenrothes, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service X24</strong><br/>1000 departs Glenrothes, Bus Station<br/>1140 arrives Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 4</strong><br/>1200 departs Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station<br/>1359 arrives Ayr, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 246</strong><br/>1445 departs Ayr, Bus Station<br/>1701 arrives Dumfries, Whitesands</p><p><strong>Service 79</strong><br/>1710 departs Dumfries, Whitesands<br/>1845 arrives Carlisle, The Crescent</p><h4>Day 2 Mileage</h4><p>247 miles</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-372019414399220992009-04-20T19:18:00.001+01:002009-04-20T19:32:44.392+01:00Day 1 – Twitter Digest<div class="image-float-right" style="border:0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FCFGcd-PL38Mb2gqSVlFIx7rpp8Zf4_RCCcr-PwuPhQiOXr_PHxdjBbcBxTagphyphenhyphenUzhiRQfHCVWcVE5TFElUeqvYICgaRcesd_8T8LFyyjgIObtGov_DsAUY7Lp3H54KmF1hG7g2w0Fm/s400/twitter-logo.png" alt="Twitter" /></div><p>Here's a record of my tweets from Day 1 – slightly delayed due to wireless internet configuration problems...</p><ul><li>6 minutes to go before bus no # 1 - the 0650 to Inverness. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556422266/">6:46 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3kzgt">http://twitpic.com/3kzgt</a> - 25x from Thurso to Inverness <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556463267/">6:56 AM</a></li><li>Sitting back and relaxing for the next 4 hours. Didn't sleep too well last night due to snorers :( <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556476250/">6:59 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3kzto">http://twitpic.com/3kzto</a> - Oops - the outside view... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556497086/">7:04 AM</a></li><li>Just passed a bus in the opposite direction full of men wearing yellow hi viz jackets. Staff bus? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556546069/">7:16 AM</a></li><li>A photo wouldn't show up, but this bus has tinted side windows. Makes the scenery look richer than the washed out view the driver gets. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556604895/">7:31 AM</a></li><li>The bus is "better" than the train up here. More frequent and faster too. Not like other parts of the country. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556668192/">7:47 AM</a></li><li>Two or three offshore platforms out at sea. This is a lonely coast but with plenty of scattered farms. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556723197/">8:02 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3l2j1">http://twitpic.com/3l2j1</a> - Every now and then are little graveyards - this one in Latheron with rocky coastline in background. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556760892/">8:13 AM</a></li><li>The descent into Berriedale is low gear, hairpin bends. So is the ascent out. No wonder the train heads inland. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556815411/">8:29 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3l3x0">http://twitpic.com/3l3x0</a> - Helmsdale. This is the river valley the train heads off down. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556909932/">8:58 AM</a></li><li>There are some gloriously sandy beaches in Sutherland. Sun shines brightly on Brora. Braw! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1556941055/">9:07 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3l4xn">http://twitpic.com/3l4xn</a> - 5 min loo break in model town Dornoch. Seagulls squawk in background. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557029542/">9:37 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3l57q">http://twitpic.com/3l57q</a> - It really is a glorious day now - sun sparkles on Dornoch Firth from bridge. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557058860/">9:47 AM</a></li><li>New driver gets on at Tain. Still a little wary about swop-overs en route - small town boy at heart. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557072320/">9:51 AM</a></li><li>What was once a rural express route is now diverting via housing estates. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557155209/">10:20 AM</a></li><li>Oh dear. I seem to be rushing about a bit at the mo. On the Bluebird to Aberdeen but nearly found myself still in the gents. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557437890/">12:06 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3l8uo">http://twitpic.com/3l8uo</a> - Another coach-like vehicle that runs an all-stops service. (Route 10) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557457409/">12:14 AM</a></li><li>4 hours. I may have a nap. The 350 (?) does a similar route but takes 5 hours. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557501027/">12:29 AM</a></li><li>If I could have a penny for every daffodil I've seen today... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557537341/">12:42 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3la5g">http://twitpic.com/3la5g</a> - Scenery: rolling farmland and lots of trees. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557599392/">1:03 PM</a></li><li>At Elgin bus station. Driver swap. Not seen any marbles yet. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557698061/">1:34 PM</a></li><li>I'm in Keith. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1557837359/">2:13 PM</a></li><li>Still an hour to go, but no more mountains ahead of us. Rich verdant farmland all the way since Inverness. Nokia batteries low. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1558001281/">2:54 PM</a></li><li>We apologise for the break in transmission - this is due to a football stop in Aberdeen. COYB! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1558396488/">4:14 PM</a></li><li>Given that Aberdeen is the HQ of First, I've seen suprisingly few buses. Must be Sunday tt. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1558588470/">4:49 PM</a></li><li>Gotta say, this pub is rather lacking in atmosphere - but is handy for the bus station. A bit worried everyone might be for Lord Ferg. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1558666315/">5:03 PM</a></li><li>Somehow I just knew it would go to extra time. Oh well, got a bus to catch, 107 to Montrose... <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1559121178/">6:18 PM</a></li><li>On a standard Stagecoach single decker. Spare mobile not configured to send pics as yet. Laterz. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1559281314/">6:44 PM</a></li><li>Woo hoo! <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1559309483/">6:48 PM</a></li><li>I don't care for the phrase "going all round the houses" but it is apt for what the 107 is doing in Stonehaven. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1559507647/">7:19 PM</a></li><li>I've just seen what looks like a crop of daffodils, which seems patently silly. What else is yellow at this time of year? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1559646738/">7:41 PM</a></li><li>I am safely in Montrose. On the internet later, for now: FOOD! :) <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1560116962/">8:53 PM</a></li></ul>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-75799897191994901442009-04-18T18:53:00.000+01:002009-04-18T18:53:19.485+01:00Day Zero – Digest<div class="image-float-right" style="border:0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FCFGcd-PL38Mb2gqSVlFIx7rpp8Zf4_RCCcr-PwuPhQiOXr_PHxdjBbcBxTagphyphenhyphenUzhiRQfHCVWcVE5TFElUeqvYICgaRcesd_8T8LFyyjgIObtGov_DsAUY7Lp3H54KmF1hG7g2w0Fm/s400/twitter-logo.png" alt="Twitter" /></div><p>Here's a record of my tweets from Day Zero – I've reversed the order so that it makes more chronological sense on a blog! I haven't really started yet, today's been more of a positioning move.</p><ul><li>Not a hugely auspicious beginning - I nearly forget to catch my train, and already I've forgotten my sunglasses. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1549189083/">6:24 AM</a></li><li>Suprisingly quiet at the airport today, even though there's a big Virgin jumbo parked at T2. Never flown domestic from T3 before. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1549278707/">6:47 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3idyi">http://twitpic.com/3idyi</a> - Nice view out onto the runway from T3 <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1549378910/">7:15 AM</a></li><li>I didn't think there'd be many people on the flight. Logic dictates otherwise - if my seat is 20D that must make 80. The Q agrees with that. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1549447456/">7:35 AM</a></li><li>Boarding now. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1549502096/">7:51 AM</a></li><li>Unofficially on a bus already - into Inverness town centre. Double decker, just like in Manchester - but with seatbelts? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1549807272/">9:37 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3iihd">http://twitpic.com/3iihd</a> - Upper deck seatbelts <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1549843554/">9:51 AM</a></li><li>I hope there's a pub showing the English FA Cup in Aberdeen 2mrw. Don't really fancy Motherwell v St Mirren. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1550084743/">11:19 AM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3io0h">http://twitpic.com/3io0h</a> - Far North train - leaving in 7 mins <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1550388295/">12:49 AM</a></li><li>Wow - no welded railway lines up here. You can feel every joint. Stunning scenery though. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1550472968/">1:09 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3iv8t">http://twitpic.com/3iv8t</a> - When in Scotland... lightweight girders? <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1551046440/">3:00 PM</a></li><li>Right. I'm in Thurso, settling down for a night at Sandra's Backpacking Hostel. Early start tomorrow - 0650 departure. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1552088321/">5:45 PM</a></li><li>Tomorrow's itinerary: <a href="http://is.gd/taCi">http://is.gd/taCi</a> <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1552098764/">5:46 PM</a></li><li><a href="http://twitpic.com/3j91b">http://twitpic.com/3j91b</a> - Proof of my arrival in Thurso. I may try for a video tomorrow. <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus/statuses/1552111322/">5:48 PM</a></li></ul>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-28725581384877325402009-04-17T21:58:00.000+01:002009-04-17T21:58:00.792+01:00Day 1 – Preview<div class="image-centre"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU58t36prFURWVnFv3Y_slyNEZtFdPm3eH01iVPmao9UGtCEMPkXXaWyHHIdMk0mJJJg_jOqwWlFp-a8wd4AXHS4Q8HUzhr6nr1c-mlOcxyHWWNhy-uMoVrn3Eoz9NFV_9PEILRA8aYWc/s1600/uk-map-day-1.png" alt="Britain by Bus Day 1: Thurso to Montrose" /></div><p>A relatively straight forward day in prospect on Sunday: three long legs down the east coast of Scotland. And when I say long, I mean <em>long</em> – the first leg to Inverness will take over four hours, and the second leg to Aberdeen is almost as long. By comparison, the final leg of the day to Montrose is a wee titchy one lasting just under two hours.</p><p>You may have noticed a rather lengthy spell in Aberdeen. This is intentional. I am planning to find a pub showing the football, in order to watch <a href="http://www.evertonfc.com/home">Everton</a> in the <a href="http://www.thefa.com/TheFACup/">FA Cup</a> semi final. I have to catch the 1825 departure on service 107, penalties or not. Can't help thinking how spectacularly ill-timed this trip is already. At least I am demonstrating the usefulness of catching the bus into town on leisure – no risk of being caught drink-driving.</p><h4>Day 1 Schedule</h4><p><strong>Service 25X</strong><br/>0650 departs Thurso, Railway Station<br/>1103 arrives Inverness, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 10</strong><br/>1205 departs Inverness, Bus Station<br/>1556 arrives Aberdeen, Bus Station</p><p><strong>Service 107</strong><br/>1825 departs Aberdeen, Bus Station<br/>2014 arrives Montrose, High Street</p><h4>Day 1 Mileage</h4><p>265 miles</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-45047846262820555592009-04-17T18:10:00.002+01:002009-04-17T18:15:04.750+01:00Those BusFacts in full<p>For the past few weeks, I've been posting a daily BusFact on <a href="http://twitter.com/britainbybus">Twitter</a> in the run-up to my journey. Tomorrow I don my little rucksack and set off for the Highlands, so today's will be the last one. In all honesty it's been a pretty tough task coming up with new ideas each day. I hope I haven't been too dull or made too many errors. For posterity's sake, here's the full digested version. Corrections welcome :)</p><ul><li><strong>BusFact #1</strong> : Jim Newton MBE is one of the oldest bus drivers in the UK. He is 79 years old and has driven for 58 years. <a href="http://is.gd/owBc">http://is.gd/owBc</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #2</strong> : The longest production bus in the world is the Caio Topbus, at nearly 27m long. It runs in São Paulo, Brazil. <a href="http://is.gd/oFZk">http://is.gd/oFZk</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #3</strong> : The oldest surviving single deck motorbus in the country dates from 1913 and used to operate in Barnsley - <a href="http://is.gd/oQVd">http://is.gd/oQVd</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #4</strong> : Despite other strong claims, the 192 in Manchester is the busiest route in the UK with 9m passengers annually <a href="http://is.gd/p2mh">http://is.gd/p2mh</a></li><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vOyyd1MUshhqo-wd1pXlamoTntGAcmWXFkQqD1zU-75BB2LNbFPmcjwb6lcq1cHUdl5qPzUaEOJvKjW2z-7fOzqsf2xPBsNVgzw5f1v3u_YJ8G3VPdsiEp8ZrHGiMav4GASpk5uLe8qy/s400/broken-bendy.jpg" alt="Broken-down bendy-bus" /></div><li><strong>BusFact #5</strong> : Replacement of bendy buses in London will require 24% more mileage <a href="http://is.gd/pd4W">http://is.gd/pd4W</a> and cost £3m per year <a href="http://is.gd/pd5y">http://is.gd/pd5y</a><ul><li>Thanks to a suggestion from @<a href="http://twitter.com/technicalfault">technicalfault</a> for today's BusFact. If there's a fact you'd like to see here, drop me a tweet.</li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #6</strong> : Although double deck buses are mainly found in the ex-British Empire, Berlin also has a long tradition <a href="http://is.gd/poMd">http://is.gd/poMd</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #7</strong> : The longest bus route in England is either the X53 Poole - Exeter (4h30) or X5 Oxford - Cambridge (115 miles) <a href="http://is.gd/pv8G">http://is.gd/pv8G</a><ul><li>irregular Manchester - Keswick is 120 miles says that website? – @<a href="http://twitter.com/technicalfault">technicalfault</a><ul><li>It ran last year during the summer, but there's been no announcement whether it will run in 2009 yet - <a href="http://is.gd/pvka">http://is.gd/pvka</a> (PDF)</li><li>X8 operates again this year <a href="http://is.gd/qPQZ">http://is.gd/qPQZ</a> but only from Chorley - about 90 miles, 2h40 - a mere baby in comparison! :)</li></ul></li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #8</strong> : Scheduled UK bus services that use ferries: 81 on Torpoint Ferry <a href="http://is.gd/pD5F">http://is.gd/pD5F</a> / 50 on Sandbanks Ferry <a href="http://is.gd/pD5R">http://is.gd/pD5R</a><ul><li>(Where did BusFact #9 go? I think Twitter was having problems that day and it has become stuck down the back of the e-sofa...)</li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #10</strong> : Buses have been found buried at the South Pole <a href="http://is.gd/q2cE">http://is.gd/q2cE</a> and flying over Paris <a href="http://is.gd/q2cL">http://is.gd/q2cL</a><ul><li>Yes, my earlier tweet was in aid of #AprilFools - all my own ideas for hoaxes seemed to involve buses for household pets <a href="http://is.gd/q2Z0">http://is.gd/q2Z0</a></li></ul></li><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7B-axH_RLVKnTKIlLkqO0HMnSQGPXQ_QK5m180JvXWc6S6RhSj-d-FDPsckzNKDhIb-Gy8y_R_QpjsUl0UcIyFJG5rk3hVIhboT5T0GFGlc8YI3XhyphenhyphenltYeSCiBDnI1cm4qfCB31bOyNN/s400/steam-bus.jpg" alt="Steam bus" /></div><li><strong>BusFact #11</strong> : There are working examples of steam buses in the Lake District <a href="http://is.gd/qfth">http://is.gd/qfth</a> and Whitby <a href="http://is.gd/qftF">http://is.gd/qftF</a><ul><li>Today's fact inspired by my colleague Mark @<a href="http://twitter.com/Kaonix">Kaonix</a> - any facts you want finding out? Tweet me and I'll try and get you an answer!</li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #12</strong> : First "nearly 9000"; Arriva "more than 7000"; Stagecoach "around 7000"; Go-Ahead "3449 at 06/08";National Express "over 2300"</li><li><strong>BusFact #13</strong> : Birmingham's Outer Circle bus route is pretty unique for a UK city - if you discount Leicester, that is -> <a href="http://is.gd/qGCc">http://is.gd/qGCc</a><ul><li>Thanks to @<a href="http://twitter.com/bounder">bounder</a> for today's BusFact suggestion.</li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #14</strong> : There are only eight "A" variations in Gtr Mcr - 3A 17A 23A 28A 37A 42A 51A + 62A. Most route numbers are 3 digits long.<ul><li>you can add 81A from end of the month :) – @<a href="http://twitter.com/conn1231">conn1231</a><ul><li>Good spot - an 81A from the end of the month! There don't appear to be any "B", "C", "D" or "E" variations at all.</li></ul></li><li>Of course, a route number being three digits long doesn't prevent West Midlands from adding an "A" variation - witness the 966A or the 900E.</li><li>The standard West Midlands bus came with a four-track route number blind, making such oddities as the 966A possible <a href="http://is.gd/qPwb">http://is.gd/qPwb</a></li><li>Preston used to have two-track route number blinds - see the way in which the 1 and 2 are squished onto the same blind <a href="http://is.gd/qPxM">http://is.gd/qPxM</a></li><li>London buses have all the route details on one big blind - but what happens when a new route number is introduced? <a href="http://is.gd/qPzd">http://is.gd/qPzd</a></li></ul></li><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZx37UKhsz2GTn4yDK9YaDwZ4fjlg5dSzPB6Pt2lgObQ9Ko_FX8Jb_qii5b0vMu-OwGphbyzfRvbUZJRnDWmPtGatDb97c2Felgtbe-1qQYhjPG-HDSA5S_B7ZwfWaNGKN7Lsa-6t2ain1/s400/keanu-bus.jpg" alt="There's a bomb on a bus" /></div><li><strong>BusFact #15</strong> : buses in the movies: On The Buses; Speed; Summer Holiday; High Society; Agent Cody Banks 2; Spiceworld -> <a href="http://is.gd/qYiW">http://is.gd/qYiW</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #16</strong> : The highest bus route in England is probably the 517 from Windermere over the Kirkstone Pass. Any advance on 1489 feet?<ul><li>The highest route in Scotland is probably the 502/503 via the Cairnwell Pass (2199 feet) south west of Balmoral.</li><li>For our friends in Wales: 1367 feet is the height you reach over the Horseshoe Pass north of Llangollen - a Sundays only leisure route.</li><li>Worldwide, how about Leh to Manali in India? 17470 feet at Taglang La pass <a href="http://is.gd/rbtu">http://is.gd/rbtu</a> yet still suffers from jams <a href="http://is.gd/rbuv">http://is.gd/rbuv</a></li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #17</strong> : Despite recent Royal Mail cutbacks, postbuses still run in rural areas carrying people as well as the mail <a href="http://is.gd/rlEf">http://is.gd/rlEf</a><ul><li>very few post buses. most are being withdrawn this year i think. some of the routes on the website are out of date – @<a href="http://twitter.com/travelling_wolf">travelling_wolf</a><ul><li>Yes, I found references to further withdrawals whilst researching buses over Applecross Pass yesterday. Shame.</li></ul></li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #18</strong> : Happy birthday Halton Transport - 100 years old today. Check out their Family Fun Day in Widnes tomorrow <a href="http://is.gd/ryai">http://is.gd/ryai</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #19</strong> : There are only 13 traditional municipal bus companies left in the UK, down from 47 at deregulation in 1986.</li><li><strong>BusFact #20</strong> : You're stood waiting for a BusFact for ages, and then two show up at once... <a href="http://is.gd/rTEV">http://is.gd/rTEV</a></li><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQ8xl50pKFWsnP2QfcutSf_8bO_xwuZUagSzIoJBvnc1T3_2_4dkALu0tUWMMge49cgKZebRoZnzGgbjny3Un1t6udM-O-VIYPx4tCuepBhJE9CEjCon2zAH7NuuGg65snQhv39YNO0NR/s400/bus-squid-graph.gif" alt="Giant squid bus" /></div><li>The double decker is a standard unit of measurement for comparison purposes e.g. Sainsbury cereal packaging = 750 tonnes = 101 dd buses<ul><li>(My lone attempt at a mobile BusFact – this should be #21!)</li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #22</strong> : Hybrid buses, with a small diesel engine generating electricty, could cut CO2 emissions by 38% <a href="http://is.gd/saiq">http://is.gd/saiq</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #23</strong> : 1971 big screen outing of ITV sitcom "On the Buses" was bigger hit than Bond film "Diamonds Are Forever" <a href="http://is.gd/sk2G">http://is.gd/sk2G</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #24</strong> : London General was the largest bus operator in London from 1855 to 1933 - initially with horse-drawn buses <a href="http://is.gd/swzG">http://is.gd/swzG</a></li><li><strong>BusFact #25</strong> : The iconic Greyhound coach services in the USA are today owned by Aberdeen's very own FirstGroup.<ul><li>Greyhound is owned by a European company??? – @<a href="http://twitter.com/The_Bus_Blog">The_Bus_Blog</a><ul><li>Yes, FirstGroup acquired it when they bought Laidlaw. Stagecoach is another Scottish company - they own Coach USA! :)<ul><li>Wow! Didn't know that! Are the businesses profitable for them? – @<a href="http://twitter.com/The_Bus_Blog">The_Bus_Blog</a><ul><li>Yes, they do make a profit but perhaps not as big as the UK stock market would like: <a href="http://is.gd/sLhP">http://is.gd/sLhP</a> & <a href="http://is.gd/sLkf">http://is.gd/sLkf</a></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li><li><strong>BusFact #26</strong> : Uses for old buses: driver training , tow truck, play bus, mobile library, roadside cafe, filming canteen, party bus. Yee-haw!<ul><li>or something like the food standards agency cooking bus.. – @<a href="http://twitter.com/marilyneb">marilyneb</a><ul><li>Yup, another good use. With only 140 characters to play with, I wanted to say "exhibition vehicle" but opted for "party bus" :)<ul><li>partybus sounds more fun :-0 @<a href="http://twitter.com/marilyneb">marilyneb</a></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li>
</ul><p>Party...!</p><p class="image-credit">Image credits: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/brainless-angel/243273895/">Brainless Angel</a> and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tasa_m/2882251779/">Tasa_M</a> on FlickrJimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-77684751436144714092009-04-17T08:10:00.000+01:002009-04-17T08:10:09.266+01:00Status update<div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXmRv3xT01pN2yrHHnEbVuJIepRuHfbidASRJ7rWC55z-l30heY7N0tyVkaZZtLSL7WRg14c6nF17YG8-QY34sTVGTQIWfFyuJ_CPYPrMi71OqbdyDpnyzxCe4hhKSoHg9gpPYpOJX-GB/s400/fashion-disaster.jpg" alt="Fashion disaster" /></div><p>This time tomorrow, I'll be at Manchester Airport awaiting my bargain flight to Inverness. The day after tomorrow, I'll be somewhere on the eastern coast of Caithness on the first leg of my journey. How are things progressing back at "Britain by Bus" HQ? Not wholly splendidly, it must be said. What looked to be a <a href="http://britainbybus.blogspot.com/2009/04/design-and-fashion.html">fashion triumph</a> is looking more like a fashion disaster at the hands of Royal Mail – lost in the post somewhere. I've had alternative arrangements made for one of my overnight stop due to unforeseen circumstances: not a huge worry, but a little disconcerting. And I haven't done any packing yet. A couple of enquiry emails have gone unanswered, leaving me to have to discover things on the day. Other than that – game on!</p><p class="image-credit">Image credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/felinebird/46407995/">felinebird</a> on Flickr</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4007018057331579329.post-82647479512105435012009-04-16T19:16:00.000+01:002009-04-16T19:16:24.178+01:00The case against Stagecoach<div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7r_isnlJwmi6gPkbuBn30H0MZIqYfwt6rtN0j-FnRjTQvoQgtie8Yz8zfeMr7MfsEDQE7LxizDqDJl8pGv8qXE0OGteSGH2IDmuNJ9bgmvsD4YSJHsOmPJSiujnbLgXpg9gq6chSJjJN/s400/stagecoach-preston-bus.jpg" alt="Preston Bus acquisition" /></div><p>Picture the scene: a local bus company is rumoured to be looking to sell. The company that runs the out-of-town services decides to start its own operations over the most profitable sections of the local bus company's network, and they retaliate in kind. After a period of intense competition, the local bus company decides to sell up to the opposition, other potential buyers having been put off by the contested market. Sounds like an episode from the <a href="http://britainbybus.blogspot.com/2009/04/deregulated-bus-industry-1986-onwards.html">early days of bus deregulation</a>, but in fact the denouement to this story occured earlier this year: Preston Bus selling up to rivals Stagecoach after <a href="http://omnibuses.blogspot.com/2007/07/kate-aidie-reports.html">eighteen months of attrition</a> culminating in <a href="http://omnibuses.blogspot.com/2008/06/turning-point.html">an inquiry by the traffic commissioner</a>.</p><p>The local subsidiary has for this kind of behaviour, even predating its purchase by Stagecoach in 1989: Ribble introduced a rival minibus service against <a href="http://www.petergould.co.uk/local_transport_history/fleetlists/barrowbt.htm">Barrow Borough Transport</a> in 1986, the reduced revenue no doubt helping send that company into receivership. Further controversy was caused in 1994 (well into Stagecoach ownership) when Lancaster decided to sell its municipal bus company. Stagecoach feared the intervention of the <a href="http://www.oft.gov.uk/">OFT</a>, so decided not to bid for the company. Instead, they offered to buy some of the assets from the council whilst registering competing bus services: interested buyers revalued their bids downwards so the council opted to liquidate the company for the best return: staff had to apply for new positions with Stagecoach. The MMC was not impressed, so <a href="http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/rep_pub/reports/1993/344stagecoach.htm">imposed undertakings anyway</a>.</p><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9F2xZdSD-wrLBYy2MCNtOMF7-b8AwmPFt9VkAlRClmjZFAh4beCd8EN4rN1twrlMIN_U_Jv9m1Od4CFsU7BKiO31BnTrYmLItyVtYnhCGMLmHjbDuhNkEKhTzH9ymg383-_z5UqtTJRG/s400/darlington-deathrow.jpg" alt="The demise of Darlington Borough Transport" /></div><p>Perhaps these situations were caused by the political landscape in Lancashire. Every proud township wanted to run their own bus company, and invariably did so. Ribble had to operate inter-urban or rural routes, in the gaps left by municipals. At deregulation, the company was vulnerable to competition within towns so took an aggressive stance – with no prisoners taken. There's no such justification for the most regrettable incident that Stagecoach was involved in: Darlington.</p><blockquote>"It was the combination of Busways' actions in recruiting so many of Darlington Transport Company's drivers so quickly, registering services on all its routes and running free services which caused DTC's final collapse. We find these actions to be predatory, deplorable and against the public interest."</blockquote><p>This was the <a href="http://www.mmc.gov.uk/rep_pub/reports/1995/371bus.htm">conclusion of the MMC's investigation into the collapse of Darlington Transport Company in 1994</a>, and a damning read it makes. Even Stagecoach admits that the negative impact of its actions in Darlington outweighed any financial gain it had made from operating buses there. Having failed to be named as preferred bidder in the sale of DTC by the local council, Stagecoach proclaimed its intention to start a competing service anyhow using its Newcastle based subsidiary Busways. Having lured a large number of drivers from DTC to jump ship with better pay rates and a signing on bonus, Stagecoach operated free services whilst waiting for the official go ahead for their new routes. This extinguished the prospect of a sale as preferred bidder Yorkshire Traction pulled out. Facing manpower problems and its revenue having been obliterated, DTC simply collapsed.</p><p>There's blame to go round, but the final sucker punch was undoubtedly delivered by Stagecoach. DTC was in a weak financial position, having faced competition on two seperate fronts from other bus companies over the past year, namely United and Your Bus. Stagecoach had put in a fair bid along with rival bus group Badgerline, but the council opted – quite reasonably – for the highest bid. The local workforce had little confidence in Yorkshire Traction's ability to turn the company's fortunes around, and relayed their willingness to defect to Stagecoach management. A sad tale that deprived the council of the opportunity to make a profit from the sale of its investment.</p><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgOaBeoontUbnrdxoY0lL9VFPaXjYcRNZhMUM6KSmU_L7z7bPAgbrWfzJKbOB2wjf4hx1MdjON_vt-SVA-1EkEbCmnAfefoC6R5AF3MzEBTKBLLDMTGhXF4L0kedBG1FPfbPVWtREIGfb/s400/brian-souter.jpg" alt="Brian Souter" /></div><p>The company's founder and chairman is also a divisive figure. Brian Souter is one of the driving forces behind the building of the Stagecoach empire, building the company up from a couple of vehicles to nearly 7000 buses today. There's no disputing his success as a businessman: but in 2000 he made a questionable foray into the world of politics by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keep_the_Clause_campaign">helping fund a private poll in Scotland</a> over the proposed repeal of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_28">Section 2A</a> of the Local Government Act 1988 in Scotland, which forbade local authorities to "intentionally promote homosexuality". The move was criticised by politicians, with the Electoral Reform Society refusing to get involved and many questions raised over the validity of the result. Souter has since kept out of the limelight, but in 2007 he did donate half a million pounds to the <a href="http://www.snp.org/">SNP</a> – who subsequently <a href="http://www.sundayherald.com/news/heraldnews/display.var.1346656.0.0.php">dropped a commitment to reregulate bus services from their manifesto</a>. The party denies any direct link.</p><h4>Having said all that...</h4><p>The fact is that today the company is one of the better bus group PLCs, if not <em>the</em> best. I live in Manchester. A few minutes spent in the city centre will reveal a huge number of new double decker buses that the local subsidiary has invested in over the past few years. Even the older vehicles (excluding the low-cost Magic Bus operation) are invariably well turned-out, clean on the inside and positively gleaming on the outside: the fleet compares well against the competition. The drivers are generally smart and professional. Season tickets are good value, £11 for a weekly ticket valid on all services. Customer service is responsive.</p><div class="image-float-right"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtXwnZkbzMS_zJl87Kdg94p5VFMSzxyXn521ZhDKh0ZF79nQFJqDxyeSHkvg9AhNDIsslbACUzn_iXQo3q6Vksv8RTm_cdwv0DhQdWJTDeRP5ETHblxx-lJOroWzgDMyr8aOORQEoy_w2/s400/stagecoach-manchester.jpg" alt="New vehicles in Manchester" /></div><p>Much the same is in evidence for other areas I've visited. You can question the methods, rightly so at times, but the end result in Preston sees a combined network and fares that are simpler. The same can be said of Barrow and Lancaster. Stagecoach is credited with the "<a href="http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/regional/buses/busgrants/kickstart/">Kickstart</a>" program, whereby a few years of Government subsidy leads to service improvements that will hopefully sustain themselves commercially in the long term. They want to expand the market, and where things aren't working out then they will cut their losses and allow other companies to have a go – such as in Burnley and (belatedly) even Darlington.</p><p>The Stagecoach Group has had a controversial history, particularly in its early years, but it seems to me that now they are well placed within the current system to continue to invest, innovate and improve their bus services.</p><p>Image credits: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ian_simpson/3236793878/">ian.simpson</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nightfire620/2181243792/">nightfire620</a> (with permission) and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ingythewingy/3444792269/">Ingy the Wingy</a> on Flickr</p>JimmyMachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16232690785433169445noreply@blogger.com0