Blog Tracker
07-12-2021, 22:52
Visit The BRAPA site (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2021/12/brapa-woman-in-dis-guisborough-angelic.html)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTrK0tHbGA7OCI2XO2yZZFxr25ubfEzUYMGqTbKCfk_V DoCVlhLT9nhG2Hk8RgHZtZ_wITk_yHWDAo83VEg3waFZv2OvWI c5yg0Jkpscns_7sRwSr-7Eghv2hUSwkVJ3d1PmKhMp1KjpK7N3s2h4IEjjJ5R8v9FmsrI3 quaIE3a70kZnxapE8-jB214w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTrK0tHbGA7OCI2XO2yZZFxr25ubfEzUYMGqTbKCfk_V DoCVlhLT9nhG2Hk8RgHZtZ_wITk_yHWDAo83VEg3waFZv2OvWI c5yg0Jkpscns_7sRwSr-7Eghv2hUSwkVJ3d1PmKhMp1KjpK7N3s2h4IEjjJ5R8v9FmsrI3 quaIE3a70kZnxapE8-jB214w=s3724)
As I ventured deeper into the festive woodland forest, only a covering of snow stopped this from feeling 'exactly' like Narnia. For the first time since April's 'Outdoor Only' Pub Reopening, the air was icy, the wind bitterer than a pint of John Smith's Armpit, and I'd upgraded to my thickest winter coat out of eighteen options.
But had I have encountered Aslan or Mr Tumnus up here, they'd have had that unmistakeable accent, half way between North Yorkshire and the North East. Yes, I was in magical Middlesbrough.
A slight train delay at Darlo' left me no chance of making the connecting bus to Guisborough, even though I was jogging, no sprinting, down Albert Road. My careful planning seemed in vain .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzcUkL__cM6PWFgxM1tD9MKoiNtwCTUXrXIyxu1v3AK8 pxQw9nu4h7hi4EIMz9qZN7ExEvITH2PpO58kYNTDyZQMnZhdfR whkKtavFwSonq9Bg-mc4EPCn6UJflMG8F3BZi72UPSIUGo9QC9_4ouT__yTHiDdUwhM SnUzJ1UyqFPedS__248Q0D0UuxA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzcUkL__cM6PWFgxM1tD9MKoiNtwCTUXrXIyxu1v3AK8 pxQw9nu4h7hi4EIMz9qZN7ExEvITH2PpO58kYNTDyZQMnZhdfR whkKtavFwSonq9Bg-mc4EPCn6UJflMG8F3BZi72UPSIUGo9QC9_4ouT__yTHiDdUwhM SnUzJ1UyqFPedS__248Q0D0UuxA=s3024)
Unless the bus was delayed of course. Nothing passed me, and suddenly I was at the stop. Hurrah! Three other ladies were waiting, shivering. "Not missed the 5A then?" I asked. "Nahhh, it's an absolute disgrace, I tell ya, an absolute blinking disgrace!" chime the two old crones. I turn and exchange smirks with the younger Asian lady, Easington bound, "Well I'm not surprised, happens all the time, bet it doesn't show, and I don't even really care" she adds with life affirming despondency. She's not wrong either, twenty minutes later, shivering my arse off, my jubilation has turned to despair, but luckily, the number 5 is on the horizon. "Disgrace, utter disgrace!" the crones tell the driver. He yawns, and we set off.
It all means a very much more rushed pint in Guisborough then I'd wanted, if I were to do this comfortably. GizzyB too, is trying to get into the festive swing, though to me, it looked like the tree had been cordoned off for being a naughty boy.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5wH6wbvOnKHdEtVE4k1cPmdRmzN_fC6mBBEiJY-ds4R3AMKXc4dY57CnYb0RifpbWa1d5q1FvDCP7gY1YFxtTzNcX nqJ6npcO9soKX8IGuSBMcQ17jEK-7upKDdw6AbdJuTeHF8I1Z4snhvlrPQmy8e1j3hX5lctcqLvDXA KbC4QRkaboWOzvsuCtCg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5wH6wbvOnKHdEtVE4k1cPmdRmzN_fC6mBBEiJY-ds4R3AMKXc4dY57CnYb0RifpbWa1d5q1FvDCP7gY1YFxtTzNcX nqJ6npcO9soKX8IGuSBMcQ17jEK-7upKDdw6AbdJuTeHF8I1Z4snhvlrPQmy8e1j3hX5lctcqLvDXA KbC4QRkaboWOzvsuCtCg=s4032)
The arctic winds whips up again. "I wish it was 'otter" says a voice from my bag. Keane Lewis, back on the Thirsy Thursday trail with me, is trying the type of humour Maltmeister would approve of.
The pub isn't on a hill, but tonight isn't the night for taking care over your photography:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8mMKgIe4RFejE4Xoq5gaW5yHeobGUck6-_7UIRQDQv96XSwzVmxmrr8P2W3xrF6hS0rz_XGYdcCV2rHaMV8 9vhhni538OHGEWYmQHJ8ya4DdN-Xf_9klxdC8XLIPXx8mQ766FwWixoJ_1gIrrkOOh3CVGp2VAjfe qjYH6HNYCNLWIMAkGJZZY0qYXPg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8mMKgIe4RFejE4Xoq5gaW5yHeobGUck6-_7UIRQDQv96XSwzVmxmrr8P2W3xrF6hS0rz_XGYdcCV2rHaMV8 9vhhni538OHGEWYmQHJ8ya4DdN-Xf_9klxdC8XLIPXx8mQ766FwWixoJ_1gIrrkOOh3CVGp2VAjfe qjYH6HNYCNLWIMAkGJZZY0qYXPg=s4032)
The BRAPA pub theme of the moment seems to be places that are 'done out' in a way that doesn't suit the locality. Monk, Guisborough (1953 / 3517) is quite a plain, modern type of bar, rather than pub. Not without some degree of comfort, but not particularly convincing. An Ember in based in a Premier Inn reception area, if I was being particularly cruel. All the warmth comes from the people, not literally of course, that could be unhygienic. But the Dad, Mum and Daughter combo behind the bar are a lively trio with good 'inter-connecting-bantz' that you come to expect from that area south of Boldon, north of Thirsk, on the Eastern side of the country. The two blokes are similarly welcoming. "£2.50 for a pint of Cherry Dark, you've picked the right time to come in!" I'm told. When I reply it is completely by chance, I'm told they'll even throw in a free dog biscuit if I so desire! I'd not even got KLO out of my bag yet, and Colin, given a free dog biscuit in Layer-de-la-Haye this summer, is not even here. I realise I've sat beside this 'viewing' window, down to some sinister ancient steps. What a shame I can't get down there. The GBG description is useful for a change, revealing this leads to a recently unearthed tunnel used by this 12th century black monk for his nefarious night time activities. #PubMan. Wonder if he got on the ESB 7th pint in? A quick check on Google Maps 'live' bus times shows my return journey is running ahead of schedule! Must dash to be on the safe side. Decent experience this, people really do make the difference.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwTVR-JubpAxHr4Tn-dcC8fV9DI97FM7b4VgpiFSYiHUdt3qrn9f7Q8lQxIpeCBa_Ms9 1txU2PCEUnT2bSaU9_DZGTQ43sP9A-UgxdDBOd-wTC8vG50Uw0HVl8JPEv092DcOteHUJpQ40wbtgFzSLIZff6TLZ 9X3aoL5dxXbJU2RuCqqYQhFGJUU4--A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwTVR-JubpAxHr4Tn-dcC8fV9DI97FM7b4VgpiFSYiHUdt3qrn9f7Q8lQxIpeCBa_Ms9 1txU2PCEUnT2bSaU9_DZGTQ43sP9A-UgxdDBOd-wTC8vG50Uw0HVl8JPEv092DcOteHUJpQ40wbtgFzSLIZff6TLZ 9X3aoL5dxXbJU2RuCqqYQhFGJUU4--A=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDHEZ7FfFmyhqTSKOBwkl9CNzV9nY-6xgzzSVrjdCqLC35QVGmLS5CaSoqVg3qlct-ZAas2EHa7SI8St4EFvTgXzgHTuSq-nZcPyZvVY6MMmY-NYRig2_8l26vq9vOZF_KOlIUTMyPphsy3bqs33gxhjLNhgIkOa gBAX3jSa9IWLkQxv9pf8rBZ-sMlQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDHEZ7FfFmyhqTSKOBwkl9CNzV9nY-6xgzzSVrjdCqLC35QVGmLS5CaSoqVg3qlct-ZAas2EHa7SI8St4EFvTgXzgHTuSq-nZcPyZvVY6MMmY-NYRig2_8l26vq9vOZF_KOlIUTMyPphsy3bqs33gxhjLNhgIkOa gBAX3jSa9IWLkQxv9pf8rBZ-sMlQ=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMyXDBvu7VYpPIAakay51hCjQupNKtqATu5GrXR1qrjR 0yR5JYNO-2quYo1ZfBqueFm8pUuK8qLvd2kLc2Nze3N1b9d2Q0qXN6sSKx7 uI1jRkAPE05nrNuIDVN2R-Qhi_zv6x1IokN8JqKZw46eck7LrsTro0zhayW1UewqUUjtkjjw K6JkqrWtPiCiQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMyXDBvu7VYpPIAakay51hCjQupNKtqATu5GrXR1qrjR 0yR5JYNO-2quYo1ZfBqueFm8pUuK8qLvd2kLc2Nze3N1b9d2Q0qXN6sSKx7 uI1jRkAPE05nrNuIDVN2R-Qhi_zv6x1IokN8JqKZw46eck7LrsTro0zhayW1UewqUUjtkjjw K6JkqrWtPiCiQ=s3662)
I've found a bus stop a tiny bit closer than the one I hopped off at, and I've barely had chance to position myself when the bus hurtles around the corner! Way ahead of schedule. I stick out a long left arm just in the nick of time!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEih8tn7fjfSCqGAJYf8tu7XvsSA0zW8ENZCfGwLliVJeJ UkaeZIo9a_VCarqFtzM3Mu7yZ0ajpMHf9zJE5liKHmB4SEJqAZ hp10qYsvmUUSKO7AKyAv25L7rH7fFeTktKBBAFwEsG_eoy4Tk1 0oDMCCq_1g0TxHPdb0tVEDR6c1krgWf8gNDT7wcV73EQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEih8tn7fjfSCqGAJYf8tu7XvsSA0zW8ENZCfGwLliVJeJ UkaeZIo9a_VCarqFtzM3Mu7yZ0ajpMHf9zJE5liKHmB4SEJqAZ hp10qYsvmUUSKO7AKyAv25L7rH7fFeTktKBBAFwEsG_eoy4Tk1 0oDMCCq_1g0TxHPdb0tVEDR6c1krgWf8gNDT7wcV73EQ=s1221 )
When we get as far as five minutes ahead, the driver pulls into a layby in the middle of nowhere for five minutes and allows time to catch up!
He then rattles on at a rate of knots through the mean streets of 'Boro, where my Dad's Dad and his Dad and his Dad, most of them called Gerald, lived in the South Bank area.
The only place the micropub revolution ever made total sense to me was Middlesbrough. All those early football days, disappointed or terrified in drinking holes like Doctor Brown's, The Star, Captain Cook and the like, or making do with decent 'Spoons experiences like sitting next to a pigeon fancier with a parmo in Isaac Wilson, or Swatter's Carr who told me away fans were welcome but looked like he was pressing an emergency button under the bar, the filth arriving before my Roaring Meg had even been topped up!
And despite not enjoying my micro debut in the flagship Dr Phil's, I later had a great afternoon ticking off tonnes of the things. All good quality places and ale. Homely. I thought I'd struck pre-emptive gold. Maddens me how few have never made the GBG. And now you have this, which wasn't on my radar back then .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijIzeurjnRlmc_h3mn7IC3dUwcRe508-hJ3qkw6BINLsy6IGWKI5ns6MT1Sy3K_hQwZXvAWzNRv8PSdCLV bAwHqPDD8dmW1M2KScqFFIuvlg_sO2RJfM2MepuTr2BEvDyogZ HGgZxHxTDtAd0apNJRIaghhoLPQTB51Rlsi-N73cLTd9XG6xHhfsNySA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijIzeurjnRlmc_h3mn7IC3dUwcRe508-hJ3qkw6BINLsy6IGWKI5ns6MT1Sy3K_hQwZXvAWzNRv8PSdCLV bAwHqPDD8dmW1M2KScqFFIuvlg_sO2RJfM2MepuTr2BEvDyogZ HGgZxHxTDtAd0apNJRIaghhoLPQTB51Rlsi-N73cLTd9XG6xHhfsNySA=s3415)
Bottled Note, Middlesbrough (1954 / 3517) delighted me by being one of the best all-rounders of a micropub I've been to in a very long time. Always best to arrive with minimal expectations, and allow yourself to be surprised. The atmosphere is pretty bouncy for a freezing Thursday, the smell of takeaway pizza, I'd later be asked if I wished to partake in the pub quiz which may've had something to do with it all, and the little bowls of nibbles being filled up and placed on participating tables by this friendly lady who must run the show. At the bar, it was one those scenarios where you are always in the way, no matter which direction you twist and turn, but the kind of place where people expect a bit of jostling and "ey up, sorry mate" as normal pub behaviour. Which in my eyes, is how it should be. A GBG is propped up on the bar, proud to be in, like all the best entries i.e the ones who care. My White Rate drank arguably better than I have it in my favourite Ossett pub in York, and the place had proper depth too! How many loos? A nice old staircase led to some, and the remnants of some party bedecked with a collage of Hull City balloons. What a shame Tom Irvin wasn't with me for a photo opportunity. I'm starting to doubt whether you'd even call it a micropub. It was all too much for one youthful pub otter.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrinxITIJT8NGzjsJNXY4m2TidUqSmV49CqJu_clHwBW vLpTd5sRNygRhMBlfi1YGajK2Grei5_KrtoxPJegySOTcN0i6O 0PRNFsgtcJoPKtWSK2nDce5YW7HBFu7ZLRb0ON-r5m-S0GjXA23cfj3kJUdnzH6n6V2Kv4dTlgVLiPVvnaQPz1_7dPhCQ w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrinxITIJT8NGzjsJNXY4m2TidUqSmV49CqJu_clHwBW vLpTd5sRNygRhMBlfi1YGajK2Grei5_KrtoxPJegySOTcN0i6O 0PRNFsgtcJoPKtWSK2nDce5YW7HBFu7ZLRb0ON-r5m-S0GjXA23cfj3kJUdnzH6n6V2Kv4dTlgVLiPVvnaQPz1_7dPhCQ w=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRE05urS1SgBVKXGHODIff_N_iVHC5nAKfgvk24uaYw1 QtskSns9PMg27yy2VYVupLP3RWxN_ZUKD-aNdlP_WyzmTkCJVQGC54HAlSlkgsfHzjT1dCfSS9HxsXweOCDR huGGvH-i9DvTDuKS1ejgaD8B-O2nZxzAYDc0MPBZLOrdsb17yfK8uOBgsaag=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRE05urS1SgBVKXGHODIff_N_iVHC5nAKfgvk24uaYw1 QtskSns9PMg27yy2VYVupLP3RWxN_ZUKD-aNdlP_WyzmTkCJVQGC54HAlSlkgsfHzjT1dCfSS9HxsXweOCDR huGGvH-i9DvTDuKS1ejgaD8B-O2nZxzAYDc0MPBZLOrdsb17yfK8uOBgsaag=s3749)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgR58bGzd2gIdD3PXpaVL_Ehjc-kupgJx7Y3wgf6I9bD9oB0aiEbOxVQW4fOxA9MpUBZ_vG5t8Lwr I4BFHslmyjVA-s8V65dtcYaVCsiq8L23Yn6B5HvYOi6M4922rncXn7P5YHy_yxD zWoNuf8tJGtL-W3-UHzOd2BTtw9HiQ8wQveHjwJTxwKkXhLJQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgR58bGzd2gIdD3PXpaVL_Ehjc-kupgJx7Y3wgf6I9bD9oB0aiEbOxVQW4fOxA9MpUBZ_vG5t8Lwr I4BFHslmyjVA-s8V65dtcYaVCsiq8L23Yn6B5HvYOi6M4922rncXn7P5YHy_yxD zWoNuf8tJGtL-W3-UHzOd2BTtw9HiQ8wQveHjwJTxwKkXhLJQ=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4eaS_IgJVJg_ZqImDO8RQsE-o3nHGZgWQ21yl1L6B3hlBe9R8tMmIeBfq0yKNaHvKh3L_u5aDI 6pO06Pd7xBKowdHjckgQvwuNzQ-JgyfETuPC73UGKA3mvFAyO1SgO-PRH6-Zh8ragvohplHIYl_Y5edfzRW3VLyJRgTpSe0KKY-3tgMKAGdEjvtlw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4eaS_IgJVJg_ZqImDO8RQsE-o3nHGZgWQ21yl1L6B3hlBe9R8tMmIeBfq0yKNaHvKh3L_u5aDI 6pO06Pd7xBKowdHjckgQvwuNzQ-JgyfETuPC73UGKA3mvFAyO1SgO-PRH6-Zh8ragvohplHIYl_Y5edfzRW3VLyJRgTpSe0KKY-3tgMKAGdEjvtlw=s3519)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_MZkGfFGO-W0vMjmzeIV-e3e2pVfkwlOfaSXJQ3uWzGmIH76apFml31lGMqSAJyEAnSERIq _hkpTi086nKM7Ctj2SgyZnv2UUHHmVWBD96mhr_UmB9Ln-0iXdNBI9ftDg3p5G0dEa6jhwLCySwvLNLnjX3cqJPTsq-ZuG3DoRxt7YZs7QuQrilm4jsA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_MZkGfFGO-W0vMjmzeIV-e3e2pVfkwlOfaSXJQ3uWzGmIH76apFml31lGMqSAJyEAnSERIq _hkpTi086nKM7Ctj2SgyZnv2UUHHmVWBD96mhr_UmB9Ln-0iXdNBI9ftDg3p5G0dEa6jhwLCySwvLNLnjX3cqJPTsq-ZuG3DoRxt7YZs7QuQrilm4jsA=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7DY76dr2QFpvxxWkfJm4bUyMtboeJlGX5srHS_4YYNH GIdU2c96unWEzzPerPUOzIvRPE9ljMVcYhg3RZkFw_lDtWablI UMVfB6FtUdyQn8X5LORD9odMUtIE7yjOZHPSHUn23gfiYXQ8Hq 0pYhhZj4Pieog9A0FgogyhcJTSZ4fOV0ZWF80b6CMUeA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7DY76dr2QFpvxxWkfJm4bUyMtboeJlGX5srHS_4YYNH GIdU2c96unWEzzPerPUOzIvRPE9ljMVcYhg3RZkFw_lDtWablI UMVfB6FtUdyQn8X5LORD9odMUtIE7yjOZHPSHUn23gfiYXQ8Hq 0pYhhZj4Pieog9A0FgogyhcJTSZ4fOV0ZWF80b6CMUeA=s4032 )
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibhL5bsAhG8BzKnVglMPobdXTI6D5ho22ycDsCfdvfTK 7rCZ7xWh7qSnAH-vIps4UqV-hvNV3lfembRUxR_PG9hNLV2WXYN1aUdGNp1wDAbmU0uuLwIXkS Ule1mUUapc-E96jB9V1NHqfdydKHmKcnzPYD1ne4x94vIj3mM_2XiOc3vBPpy bXz7-lIEw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibhL5bsAhG8BzKnVglMPobdXTI6D5ho22ycDsCfdvfTK 7rCZ7xWh7qSnAH-vIps4UqV-hvNV3lfembRUxR_PG9hNLV2WXYN1aUdGNp1wDAbmU0uuLwIXkS Ule1mUUapc-E96jB9V1NHqfdydKHmKcnzPYD1ne4x94vIj3mM_2XiOc3vBPpy bXz7-lIEw=s2984)
Tonight had been an effort for the sake of two ticks early on, but Bottled Note had made it all feel very worthwhile. A few more minor delays getting back to York, but not too bad, up to +13 in North Yorkshire. Running out of NY ticks I can actually do after work on a Thursday, but it won't stop me trying, and I can always 'push the boundaries' like some renegade artist. Or I might be getting carried away.
Whatever, thanks for reading, and see you back here tomorrow night for a winter's tale from the Stoke area where we'll meet a new pub hero. Finally catching up a bit with these blogs.
Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2021/12/brapa-woman-in-dis-guisborough-angelic.html)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTrK0tHbGA7OCI2XO2yZZFxr25ubfEzUYMGqTbKCfk_V DoCVlhLT9nhG2Hk8RgHZtZ_wITk_yHWDAo83VEg3waFZv2OvWI c5yg0Jkpscns_7sRwSr-7Eghv2hUSwkVJ3d1PmKhMp1KjpK7N3s2h4IEjjJ5R8v9FmsrI3 quaIE3a70kZnxapE8-jB214w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTrK0tHbGA7OCI2XO2yZZFxr25ubfEzUYMGqTbKCfk_V DoCVlhLT9nhG2Hk8RgHZtZ_wITk_yHWDAo83VEg3waFZv2OvWI c5yg0Jkpscns_7sRwSr-7Eghv2hUSwkVJ3d1PmKhMp1KjpK7N3s2h4IEjjJ5R8v9FmsrI3 quaIE3a70kZnxapE8-jB214w=s3724)
As I ventured deeper into the festive woodland forest, only a covering of snow stopped this from feeling 'exactly' like Narnia. For the first time since April's 'Outdoor Only' Pub Reopening, the air was icy, the wind bitterer than a pint of John Smith's Armpit, and I'd upgraded to my thickest winter coat out of eighteen options.
But had I have encountered Aslan or Mr Tumnus up here, they'd have had that unmistakeable accent, half way between North Yorkshire and the North East. Yes, I was in magical Middlesbrough.
A slight train delay at Darlo' left me no chance of making the connecting bus to Guisborough, even though I was jogging, no sprinting, down Albert Road. My careful planning seemed in vain .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzcUkL__cM6PWFgxM1tD9MKoiNtwCTUXrXIyxu1v3AK8 pxQw9nu4h7hi4EIMz9qZN7ExEvITH2PpO58kYNTDyZQMnZhdfR whkKtavFwSonq9Bg-mc4EPCn6UJflMG8F3BZi72UPSIUGo9QC9_4ouT__yTHiDdUwhM SnUzJ1UyqFPedS__248Q0D0UuxA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzcUkL__cM6PWFgxM1tD9MKoiNtwCTUXrXIyxu1v3AK8 pxQw9nu4h7hi4EIMz9qZN7ExEvITH2PpO58kYNTDyZQMnZhdfR whkKtavFwSonq9Bg-mc4EPCn6UJflMG8F3BZi72UPSIUGo9QC9_4ouT__yTHiDdUwhM SnUzJ1UyqFPedS__248Q0D0UuxA=s3024)
Unless the bus was delayed of course. Nothing passed me, and suddenly I was at the stop. Hurrah! Three other ladies were waiting, shivering. "Not missed the 5A then?" I asked. "Nahhh, it's an absolute disgrace, I tell ya, an absolute blinking disgrace!" chime the two old crones. I turn and exchange smirks with the younger Asian lady, Easington bound, "Well I'm not surprised, happens all the time, bet it doesn't show, and I don't even really care" she adds with life affirming despondency. She's not wrong either, twenty minutes later, shivering my arse off, my jubilation has turned to despair, but luckily, the number 5 is on the horizon. "Disgrace, utter disgrace!" the crones tell the driver. He yawns, and we set off.
It all means a very much more rushed pint in Guisborough then I'd wanted, if I were to do this comfortably. GizzyB too, is trying to get into the festive swing, though to me, it looked like the tree had been cordoned off for being a naughty boy.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5wH6wbvOnKHdEtVE4k1cPmdRmzN_fC6mBBEiJY-ds4R3AMKXc4dY57CnYb0RifpbWa1d5q1FvDCP7gY1YFxtTzNcX nqJ6npcO9soKX8IGuSBMcQ17jEK-7upKDdw6AbdJuTeHF8I1Z4snhvlrPQmy8e1j3hX5lctcqLvDXA KbC4QRkaboWOzvsuCtCg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5wH6wbvOnKHdEtVE4k1cPmdRmzN_fC6mBBEiJY-ds4R3AMKXc4dY57CnYb0RifpbWa1d5q1FvDCP7gY1YFxtTzNcX nqJ6npcO9soKX8IGuSBMcQ17jEK-7upKDdw6AbdJuTeHF8I1Z4snhvlrPQmy8e1j3hX5lctcqLvDXA KbC4QRkaboWOzvsuCtCg=s4032)
The arctic winds whips up again. "I wish it was 'otter" says a voice from my bag. Keane Lewis, back on the Thirsy Thursday trail with me, is trying the type of humour Maltmeister would approve of.
The pub isn't on a hill, but tonight isn't the night for taking care over your photography:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8mMKgIe4RFejE4Xoq5gaW5yHeobGUck6-_7UIRQDQv96XSwzVmxmrr8P2W3xrF6hS0rz_XGYdcCV2rHaMV8 9vhhni538OHGEWYmQHJ8ya4DdN-Xf_9klxdC8XLIPXx8mQ766FwWixoJ_1gIrrkOOh3CVGp2VAjfe qjYH6HNYCNLWIMAkGJZZY0qYXPg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8mMKgIe4RFejE4Xoq5gaW5yHeobGUck6-_7UIRQDQv96XSwzVmxmrr8P2W3xrF6hS0rz_XGYdcCV2rHaMV8 9vhhni538OHGEWYmQHJ8ya4DdN-Xf_9klxdC8XLIPXx8mQ766FwWixoJ_1gIrrkOOh3CVGp2VAjfe qjYH6HNYCNLWIMAkGJZZY0qYXPg=s4032)
The BRAPA pub theme of the moment seems to be places that are 'done out' in a way that doesn't suit the locality. Monk, Guisborough (1953 / 3517) is quite a plain, modern type of bar, rather than pub. Not without some degree of comfort, but not particularly convincing. An Ember in based in a Premier Inn reception area, if I was being particularly cruel. All the warmth comes from the people, not literally of course, that could be unhygienic. But the Dad, Mum and Daughter combo behind the bar are a lively trio with good 'inter-connecting-bantz' that you come to expect from that area south of Boldon, north of Thirsk, on the Eastern side of the country. The two blokes are similarly welcoming. "£2.50 for a pint of Cherry Dark, you've picked the right time to come in!" I'm told. When I reply it is completely by chance, I'm told they'll even throw in a free dog biscuit if I so desire! I'd not even got KLO out of my bag yet, and Colin, given a free dog biscuit in Layer-de-la-Haye this summer, is not even here. I realise I've sat beside this 'viewing' window, down to some sinister ancient steps. What a shame I can't get down there. The GBG description is useful for a change, revealing this leads to a recently unearthed tunnel used by this 12th century black monk for his nefarious night time activities. #PubMan. Wonder if he got on the ESB 7th pint in? A quick check on Google Maps 'live' bus times shows my return journey is running ahead of schedule! Must dash to be on the safe side. Decent experience this, people really do make the difference.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwTVR-JubpAxHr4Tn-dcC8fV9DI97FM7b4VgpiFSYiHUdt3qrn9f7Q8lQxIpeCBa_Ms9 1txU2PCEUnT2bSaU9_DZGTQ43sP9A-UgxdDBOd-wTC8vG50Uw0HVl8JPEv092DcOteHUJpQ40wbtgFzSLIZff6TLZ 9X3aoL5dxXbJU2RuCqqYQhFGJUU4--A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwTVR-JubpAxHr4Tn-dcC8fV9DI97FM7b4VgpiFSYiHUdt3qrn9f7Q8lQxIpeCBa_Ms9 1txU2PCEUnT2bSaU9_DZGTQ43sP9A-UgxdDBOd-wTC8vG50Uw0HVl8JPEv092DcOteHUJpQ40wbtgFzSLIZff6TLZ 9X3aoL5dxXbJU2RuCqqYQhFGJUU4--A=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDHEZ7FfFmyhqTSKOBwkl9CNzV9nY-6xgzzSVrjdCqLC35QVGmLS5CaSoqVg3qlct-ZAas2EHa7SI8St4EFvTgXzgHTuSq-nZcPyZvVY6MMmY-NYRig2_8l26vq9vOZF_KOlIUTMyPphsy3bqs33gxhjLNhgIkOa gBAX3jSa9IWLkQxv9pf8rBZ-sMlQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDHEZ7FfFmyhqTSKOBwkl9CNzV9nY-6xgzzSVrjdCqLC35QVGmLS5CaSoqVg3qlct-ZAas2EHa7SI8St4EFvTgXzgHTuSq-nZcPyZvVY6MMmY-NYRig2_8l26vq9vOZF_KOlIUTMyPphsy3bqs33gxhjLNhgIkOa gBAX3jSa9IWLkQxv9pf8rBZ-sMlQ=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMyXDBvu7VYpPIAakay51hCjQupNKtqATu5GrXR1qrjR 0yR5JYNO-2quYo1ZfBqueFm8pUuK8qLvd2kLc2Nze3N1b9d2Q0qXN6sSKx7 uI1jRkAPE05nrNuIDVN2R-Qhi_zv6x1IokN8JqKZw46eck7LrsTro0zhayW1UewqUUjtkjjw K6JkqrWtPiCiQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMyXDBvu7VYpPIAakay51hCjQupNKtqATu5GrXR1qrjR 0yR5JYNO-2quYo1ZfBqueFm8pUuK8qLvd2kLc2Nze3N1b9d2Q0qXN6sSKx7 uI1jRkAPE05nrNuIDVN2R-Qhi_zv6x1IokN8JqKZw46eck7LrsTro0zhayW1UewqUUjtkjjw K6JkqrWtPiCiQ=s3662)
I've found a bus stop a tiny bit closer than the one I hopped off at, and I've barely had chance to position myself when the bus hurtles around the corner! Way ahead of schedule. I stick out a long left arm just in the nick of time!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEih8tn7fjfSCqGAJYf8tu7XvsSA0zW8ENZCfGwLliVJeJ UkaeZIo9a_VCarqFtzM3Mu7yZ0ajpMHf9zJE5liKHmB4SEJqAZ hp10qYsvmUUSKO7AKyAv25L7rH7fFeTktKBBAFwEsG_eoy4Tk1 0oDMCCq_1g0TxHPdb0tVEDR6c1krgWf8gNDT7wcV73EQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEih8tn7fjfSCqGAJYf8tu7XvsSA0zW8ENZCfGwLliVJeJ UkaeZIo9a_VCarqFtzM3Mu7yZ0ajpMHf9zJE5liKHmB4SEJqAZ hp10qYsvmUUSKO7AKyAv25L7rH7fFeTktKBBAFwEsG_eoy4Tk1 0oDMCCq_1g0TxHPdb0tVEDR6c1krgWf8gNDT7wcV73EQ=s1221 )
When we get as far as five minutes ahead, the driver pulls into a layby in the middle of nowhere for five minutes and allows time to catch up!
He then rattles on at a rate of knots through the mean streets of 'Boro, where my Dad's Dad and his Dad and his Dad, most of them called Gerald, lived in the South Bank area.
The only place the micropub revolution ever made total sense to me was Middlesbrough. All those early football days, disappointed or terrified in drinking holes like Doctor Brown's, The Star, Captain Cook and the like, or making do with decent 'Spoons experiences like sitting next to a pigeon fancier with a parmo in Isaac Wilson, or Swatter's Carr who told me away fans were welcome but looked like he was pressing an emergency button under the bar, the filth arriving before my Roaring Meg had even been topped up!
And despite not enjoying my micro debut in the flagship Dr Phil's, I later had a great afternoon ticking off tonnes of the things. All good quality places and ale. Homely. I thought I'd struck pre-emptive gold. Maddens me how few have never made the GBG. And now you have this, which wasn't on my radar back then .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijIzeurjnRlmc_h3mn7IC3dUwcRe508-hJ3qkw6BINLsy6IGWKI5ns6MT1Sy3K_hQwZXvAWzNRv8PSdCLV bAwHqPDD8dmW1M2KScqFFIuvlg_sO2RJfM2MepuTr2BEvDyogZ HGgZxHxTDtAd0apNJRIaghhoLPQTB51Rlsi-N73cLTd9XG6xHhfsNySA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijIzeurjnRlmc_h3mn7IC3dUwcRe508-hJ3qkw6BINLsy6IGWKI5ns6MT1Sy3K_hQwZXvAWzNRv8PSdCLV bAwHqPDD8dmW1M2KScqFFIuvlg_sO2RJfM2MepuTr2BEvDyogZ HGgZxHxTDtAd0apNJRIaghhoLPQTB51Rlsi-N73cLTd9XG6xHhfsNySA=s3415)
Bottled Note, Middlesbrough (1954 / 3517) delighted me by being one of the best all-rounders of a micropub I've been to in a very long time. Always best to arrive with minimal expectations, and allow yourself to be surprised. The atmosphere is pretty bouncy for a freezing Thursday, the smell of takeaway pizza, I'd later be asked if I wished to partake in the pub quiz which may've had something to do with it all, and the little bowls of nibbles being filled up and placed on participating tables by this friendly lady who must run the show. At the bar, it was one those scenarios where you are always in the way, no matter which direction you twist and turn, but the kind of place where people expect a bit of jostling and "ey up, sorry mate" as normal pub behaviour. Which in my eyes, is how it should be. A GBG is propped up on the bar, proud to be in, like all the best entries i.e the ones who care. My White Rate drank arguably better than I have it in my favourite Ossett pub in York, and the place had proper depth too! How many loos? A nice old staircase led to some, and the remnants of some party bedecked with a collage of Hull City balloons. What a shame Tom Irvin wasn't with me for a photo opportunity. I'm starting to doubt whether you'd even call it a micropub. It was all too much for one youthful pub otter.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrinxITIJT8NGzjsJNXY4m2TidUqSmV49CqJu_clHwBW vLpTd5sRNygRhMBlfi1YGajK2Grei5_KrtoxPJegySOTcN0i6O 0PRNFsgtcJoPKtWSK2nDce5YW7HBFu7ZLRb0ON-r5m-S0GjXA23cfj3kJUdnzH6n6V2Kv4dTlgVLiPVvnaQPz1_7dPhCQ w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrinxITIJT8NGzjsJNXY4m2TidUqSmV49CqJu_clHwBW vLpTd5sRNygRhMBlfi1YGajK2Grei5_KrtoxPJegySOTcN0i6O 0PRNFsgtcJoPKtWSK2nDce5YW7HBFu7ZLRb0ON-r5m-S0GjXA23cfj3kJUdnzH6n6V2Kv4dTlgVLiPVvnaQPz1_7dPhCQ w=s4032)
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https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgR58bGzd2gIdD3PXpaVL_Ehjc-kupgJx7Y3wgf6I9bD9oB0aiEbOxVQW4fOxA9MpUBZ_vG5t8Lwr I4BFHslmyjVA-s8V65dtcYaVCsiq8L23Yn6B5HvYOi6M4922rncXn7P5YHy_yxD zWoNuf8tJGtL-W3-UHzOd2BTtw9HiQ8wQveHjwJTxwKkXhLJQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgR58bGzd2gIdD3PXpaVL_Ehjc-kupgJx7Y3wgf6I9bD9oB0aiEbOxVQW4fOxA9MpUBZ_vG5t8Lwr I4BFHslmyjVA-s8V65dtcYaVCsiq8L23Yn6B5HvYOi6M4922rncXn7P5YHy_yxD zWoNuf8tJGtL-W3-UHzOd2BTtw9HiQ8wQveHjwJTxwKkXhLJQ=s4032)
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Tonight had been an effort for the sake of two ticks early on, but Bottled Note had made it all feel very worthwhile. A few more minor delays getting back to York, but not too bad, up to +13 in North Yorkshire. Running out of NY ticks I can actually do after work on a Thursday, but it won't stop me trying, and I can always 'push the boundaries' like some renegade artist. Or I might be getting carried away.
Whatever, thanks for reading, and see you back here tomorrow night for a winter's tale from the Stoke area where we'll meet a new pub hero. Finally catching up a bit with these blogs.
Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2021/12/brapa-woman-in-dis-guisborough-angelic.html)