Bus driver of the year

Few pictures of the bus driver of the year finals at Ashton today. The weather has been a bit dull today but the mood has been good. I had a try and I'm just waiting to see how I did.

Oh look

I seen these buses on the tv. This one has just arrived at Hyde road.

The boss comes to town

Last night was the turn of Bruce Springsteen to clog the city up. We were very very busy getting the crowds to and from the etihad stadium. Sadly the Friday rush hour traffic slowed us down but we got everyone there in time. On the return journey we had 45 buses from all Manchester depots and shifted around 4000 people in the space of 45 minutes which wasn't bad considering they were all paying. Back to normal work today in Piccadilly and tomorrow is bus driver of the year Manchester finals day so that should be entertaining. Will share pictures throughout the day tomorrow.

Brilliant

Just on my first tram journey from Oldham to Manchester. Must say its been worth the wait. Will be a lot better when the tram runs through the town centre but for the time being it will do. Never knew there was a station on block lane or at drury lane in chadderton. Off until Wednesday so heading out for a few beers.

Already!

I find it very sad and disappointing but the Oldham line has failed already. I'm sure it will be back up and running soon but in the meantime people are making there way to mumps station which now has no transport links and finding out the tram is off. Very poor show once again.

Trumpet blowing time

One thing Manchester is good at, is putting on concerts. Over the weekend, Coldplay have been playing at the etihad stadium and transport to and from has been my task for the weekend. It's been a busy and fun job. We had 10 buses travelling to the ground with buses at times leaving Piccadilly in twos on an eight minute service but the real fun part is bringing everyone back. 35 buses all lined up along Ashton new road and using grey mare lane as a storage area for the ones we couldn't fit on the main road. 6 pens were made into a mini bus station which housed the first twelve buses. Finally got home at 1:45 this morning. All passengers were moved, yes a not slower then expected as the traffic was rubbish. But a very successful weekend for us. Back to reality today. And back on familiar ground after a few weeks away from Ashton.

New buses

Was on the way out today and noticed this brand new bus parked in Hyde road. I believe there was more parked outside but I didn't have time to look. They are the first for Manchester with the new 10*** numbers in them. Euro 6 engines and I heard they were possibly for the 76 route. Will see.

Closed again

After a nice break I decided to have a ride out on the bike. Passed through Oldham town centre and noticed king street closed once more. I'm sure there will be more misery to follow.

Whats this

Just in Chester and noticed this bus. Looks familiar. Any ideas what the history is? I couldn't get out quick enough for a reg number