Blog Tracker
17-01-2022, 22:26
Visit The BRAPA site (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/01/brapa-in-partners-in-kryme-in-newcastle.html)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZQRDoUwaPEaHhWKnmwXZR63oXCu1WelAdG0NPL3OzBc ZzqVRmu9wSn1Z9Ij1_r5cXiYu3W8yZeFQKLXvcHywkDlmjgn2v bs7Qhb3PHoZJk9XFxnMEMkK8URlzc_SyOb_zWTmpof1pC0imLe Oz-1sNupwCPvz12J5jb4ppkp1yy1QzOwsjRbJ-e_jI2w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZQRDoUwaPEaHhWKnmwXZR63oXCu1WelAdG0NPL3OzBc ZzqVRmu9wSn1Z9Ij1_r5cXiYu3W8yZeFQKLXvcHywkDlmjgn2v bs7Qhb3PHoZJk9XFxnMEMkK8URlzc_SyOb_zWTmpof1pC0imLe Oz-1sNupwCPvz12J5jb4ppkp1yy1QzOwsjRbJ-e_jI2w=s681)
Now living in the sewers beneath Stoke town centre
Today was going pretty well after a slow start. Wellers and the Boat & Horses had earned their BRAPA gold stars, and it was time for pub #3.
Time to negotiate one of the most upsetting underpasses I've ever witnessed. How we came up in the right place, I'll never know! Too busy looking at my phone, Daddy BRAPA exclaims "Cowabunga!" or words to that effect, because he has seen this lovely looking building, the Holy Trinity Catholic Church and some time vaccination centre for the insane ......
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI0BOMRSmJ0VkS4DFLGLyl6WZuGAmWVXs2RoLI6tcdVl qSoMBYSxatkYctkC3zD3msZ77n6rh_9C0dgmQfs5ThPCyEeChg 5aKOe3-QaRCjGRwkRdjraBHh-CkulPUsw2iFNzDz4LpskBwY_5qEhwG0GLurYCO3bn1wUa2XGZ0 1jOl-w8qUnqaErpq82Q=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI0BOMRSmJ0VkS4DFLGLyl6WZuGAmWVXs2RoLI6tcdVl qSoMBYSxatkYctkC3zD3msZ77n6rh_9C0dgmQfs5ThPCyEeChg 5aKOe3-QaRCjGRwkRdjraBHh-CkulPUsw2iFNzDz4LpskBwY_5qEhwG0GLurYCO3bn1wUa2XGZ0 1jOl-w8qUnqaErpq82Q=s4032)
Our next pub was the key one geographically, a bit of a walk, but still classed as Newcastle-under-Lyme though it must have been bordering Hartshill, where our 4th and 5th pubs would be found. We passed the sort of disturbing street art that makes up 30% of RetiredMartin's blogs ......
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdYym9tS2-oC5gjkXovFSsZXH33e6gxTt14FmAjtNETUQerdX5PmQdqKyJg3 APmWYkhhjr7UCWXMep4Ep16LbIhlgIm2fVHfPd4tm8ZxmTZUMc IacFpLbMYzZ3iM1Prr2uXotHRxYRe6ts3z13RORR5Ukp5GULJA 6gUSWE3requEenL8F_m8iIRRDzOQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdYym9tS2-oC5gjkXovFSsZXH33e6gxTt14FmAjtNETUQerdX5PmQdqKyJg3 APmWYkhhjr7UCWXMep4Ep16LbIhlgIm2fVHfPd4tm8ZxmTZUMc IacFpLbMYzZ3iM1Prr2uXotHRxYRe6ts3z13RORR5Ukp5GULJA 6gUSWE3requEenL8F_m8iIRRDzOQ=s4032)
When we see the pub, it is the most quintessentially micro backdrop. My bingo card would be flashing if I'd brought it. Set back off the road, next to a tattoo parlour and funeral services .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCxuI0DplSdKbsI5j9Qx0yAOSPbK5Bc-23L1CqbQPq6U87ne2NUgEYNF1ijg7pXK5OWQoK6WCZZExtMu41 hTqPRS09MBSbO62gfAlVdxb2V56t3Kteq6FRnmHiS5xASyPYup k9KSdd5iLUxweIUFU9Xe3JM3WH2dlbn7nQAn28iw_YIKxCGHcJ 36GsFQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCxuI0DplSdKbsI5j9Qx0yAOSPbK5Bc-23L1CqbQPq6U87ne2NUgEYNF1ijg7pXK5OWQoK6WCZZExtMu41 hTqPRS09MBSbO62gfAlVdxb2V56t3Kteq6FRnmHiS5xASyPYup k9KSdd5iLUxweIUFU9Xe3JM3WH2dlbn7nQAn28iw_YIKxCGHcJ 36GsFQ=s4032)
It didn't exactly fill you with the joys of spring, but Daddy BRAPA was looking chipper enough with his trademark smile .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0A0lBJjc81SPKRpJro-9BVnDyjgMAKGdXbqfbkyCYaxXoswHtprree9OJVNufd38GD1be-VjJKi672-XaVyphgLu2W3glMLPTDImV6WkXnSbso-MlbPmQBMY6bMH_vKQNEv0PyzZf_ZQJQoWmzyUEiIxZJNvJD2bN zpszuAs9KHZdztt6qTm7gbEzXw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0A0lBJjc81SPKRpJro-9BVnDyjgMAKGdXbqfbkyCYaxXoswHtprree9OJVNufd38GD1be-VjJKi672-XaVyphgLu2W3glMLPTDImV6WkXnSbso-MlbPmQBMY6bMH_vKQNEv0PyzZf_ZQJQoWmzyUEiIxZJNvJD2bN zpszuAs9KHZdztt6qTm7gbEzXw=s4032)
Another BRAPA day, another GBG entry called Cask , this one Newcastle-under-Lyme (2003 / 3566) and at this point in history, I'm assuming there are now more Casks than Red Lions. In spite of ourselves, we are pleasantly surprised as we take our pints of Thirst Class Oatmeal Stout, served by a very nice bloke, around a corner, perfect for a bit of 'own food smuggling'. Although Dad is disappointed at the pub's missed business opportunity of having a guest ale on named 'Kevin Lownds Embalming Fluid' he is inspired enough to observe that he feels the standard of micropubs has improved since our early days of visiting them circa 2012. Ones like this and Wellers, and those we observed on New Year's Day in Blackpool, have warmth, depth and comfortable seating. This one even has horse racing on the TV. Maybe micropubs are merging into pubs, and the term will soon be obsolete, the founding father Mr Hillier can be knighted for his services to the pub industry, and we can move on. Hard as it is for me to watch any horse race without thinking of the Peter Cook / Dudley Moore Derek & Clive horse racing sketch, I'm so convinced the horse called Indy Five is going to win, I refuse to let Dad leave until we've seen the race. Of course, it finishes nowhere. And there we go, this pub representing one of the most thrilling aspects of pub ticking - 'expecting it to be shite, turns out (more than) alright'.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiskQMbT6DOP3UI8vPDxfkZhZcc4B8sHOhDmdvdHhG-27ryrl1qx0oTg7fitTw2Hj-QW4Qde_wxbD48LoYaT_EG-oAycdk6ycnEDyQ2VXLFQO4QXfZu0pUQRHDyFz5fuxi6ZvaAthA OjXjjKV3RR_eK2JwOSQqc84t4lttZZPsmISw7hpEPkcsuXb195 w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiskQMbT6DOP3UI8vPDxfkZhZcc4B8sHOhDmdvdHhG-27ryrl1qx0oTg7fitTw2Hj-QW4Qde_wxbD48LoYaT_EG-oAycdk6ycnEDyQ2VXLFQO4QXfZu0pUQRHDyFz5fuxi6ZvaAthA OjXjjKV3RR_eK2JwOSQqc84t4lttZZPsmISw7hpEPkcsuXb195 w=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUrAVT23oT3_yCENr4Wr6ui2wVPKB-9ujKoUez4IUJiiwjf0ZJ_QiHIaQvhpxn_1yZUQ91rdD18JUYOB 8TEDjRWZi_6F6Tzjrw2iZw0liAY83dZs6Yzs7vyqepTlHPUJ4Q C86Ro_j9ouPamczSWmZEAX01QT9ltx_GwwQTbnd1v-5o1hAFTieDGIkNjQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUrAVT23oT3_yCENr4Wr6ui2wVPKB-9ujKoUez4IUJiiwjf0ZJ_QiHIaQvhpxn_1yZUQ91rdD18JUYOB 8TEDjRWZi_6F6Tzjrw2iZw0liAY83dZs6Yzs7vyqepTlHPUJ4Q C86Ro_j9ouPamczSWmZEAX01QT9ltx_GwwQTbnd1v-5o1hAFTieDGIkNjQ=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxS8N_PuSoGDYI7izfVNPiwKGEdovSsr6D8YNJRHG250 p4OWONyAlqzpsruyAIkagAZ-GOxKsAa9-jMJri4aLVDuRQUKoqKMh71g1NF1FJojWU0JeTVa5wZgGYAD0iJ o25G_ERkz4k1CKCtCtcqo3M6kSG7kueWKdhjylY4TFW0esFzcO qsWYbEo4SEw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxS8N_PuSoGDYI7izfVNPiwKGEdovSsr6D8YNJRHG250 p4OWONyAlqzpsruyAIkagAZ-GOxKsAa9-jMJri4aLVDuRQUKoqKMh71g1NF1FJojWU0JeTVa5wZgGYAD0iJ o25G_ERkz4k1CKCtCtcqo3M6kSG7kueWKdhjylY4TFW0esFzcO qsWYbEo4SEw=s4032)
We crossed the invisible border into Hartshill, where the first of two pubs were found on the same road. The second of which doesn't open til 4pm, so no rush, being only 3:17pm.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbZcIp0ZY_uSSpx0f_g-O--UWs0PLRig6t4DJP6NKLRXPgd6yaXI3HGw-UPP4EGQi2BUIrOeJFxUuaxQahm3OBurT0PkbmtcmcL2pxHVH5K 6_OmILVDQ4O8XGk_yOzKGuCczKtSzxipPCRBU0SkM1gBtWJvaH lF5GqpppDeirDD80z9s7p2qQ-SPPDQw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbZcIp0ZY_uSSpx0f_g-O--UWs0PLRig6t4DJP6NKLRXPgd6yaXI3HGw-UPP4EGQi2BUIrOeJFxUuaxQahm3OBurT0PkbmtcmcL2pxHVH5K 6_OmILVDQ4O8XGk_yOzKGuCczKtSzxipPCRBU0SkM1gBtWJvaH lF5GqpppDeirDD80z9s7p2qQ-SPPDQw=s3024)
I quite like the look of the Old House at Home next door actually, with its smoking, gurning men in dirty vests scowling at me from the doorway, but the GBG has spoken, and Artisan Tap, Hartshill (2004 / 3567) it is. A flowery sparkly camp little place, seemingly appealing to the Hartshill Hipster Massive (HHM) which I didn't think existed until today. If this was the Artisan, the Old House at Home was the Partizan (Belgrade). Despite having a very different atmosphere from Cask and Wellers, it has an ambience, even if I can't really work out what the tiny birdcages, pink poodles and jokey blackboards are all about. Not sure the barmaid looks at us once, never mind speaks as she pulls our Oakham Infernos, preferring to be sat at a table on her laptop. Not exactly April O'Neil. Call me old fashioned, but I never think its a good look for a pub or bar when the staff are never behind them. The upstairs loos interest me, I can't quite remember why, I don't suppose it was just the 60p bleach, but it helped. Paired well with the Inferno anyway, which was my favourite pint of the day.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhrVK0vvKqYuqiY_OUZetIlm_AEFKHCQDADUTvhB1w_w 43gzS17z43WhrUxLQuvQQ2meDbpG0Q87oi4oiEo0y7seYSr--56YiB1RJKsPaBkjcEfKyVawJMdITBF72KQrNa6J6qkYczjb80F psxj59sDHq5t3YdSFxqq3F2Ez_uUYp256Jp4XPO_yL6rw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhrVK0vvKqYuqiY_OUZetIlm_AEFKHCQDADUTvhB1w_w 43gzS17z43WhrUxLQuvQQ2meDbpG0Q87oi4oiEo0y7seYSr--56YiB1RJKsPaBkjcEfKyVawJMdITBF72KQrNa6J6qkYczjb80F psxj59sDHq5t3YdSFxqq3F2Ez_uUYp256Jp4XPO_yL6rw=s403 2)
Top lacings
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-N7zc5HtPwQEEpADDx29Urs249L00AyrghNYj-DLrdqPLwaYRNlnSFhoBjgToxC22Ev4NyQWm1cds9fuKmIH1cvZ 9piaAc1MGVsL1zwwtqjJmgSX-MYOTe8Pbbb7Om7E3LgwCPQeOfaxY_UYYr7a1u2zrMVSA4m4vO4 ztjnC7NDct_0KtrLqBZowtlw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-N7zc5HtPwQEEpADDx29Urs249L00AyrghNYj-DLrdqPLwaYRNlnSFhoBjgToxC22Ev4NyQWm1cds9fuKmIH1cvZ 9piaAc1MGVsL1zwwtqjJmgSX-MYOTe8Pbbb7Om7E3LgwCPQeOfaxY_UYYr7a1u2zrMVSA4m4vO4 ztjnC7NDct_0KtrLqBZowtlw=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgZr3-XXfRfqCMWCmsGjGf40CMZFRSopT9koSYkQ4HDkpBOa7w5ZQbjz nsIO_LwQuPw87UZiuN3j0xxnyDgnLHuqn4gL5nz4C9KD1rd081 dl3ZcP7kJN7wDJyqHmLz-9Xph93NQi7t5jDwztg4md0RPtIeCET8RAeBHwkxCwqmEPF-rtYy6fx0cl533lw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgZr3-XXfRfqCMWCmsGjGf40CMZFRSopT9koSYkQ4HDkpBOa7w5ZQbjz nsIO_LwQuPw87UZiuN3j0xxnyDgnLHuqn4gL5nz4C9KD1rd081 dl3ZcP7kJN7wDJyqHmLz-9Xph93NQi7t5jDwztg4md0RPtIeCET8RAeBHwkxCwqmEPF-rtYy6fx0cl533lw=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI11WZiPKlezRlDhJlmRd3PFOgvVkPbfb2hKSIdWRA_N zeFYbuMB2UnCSTZraEBbOH2wDvFL25iTY-VE4eOLAK7d-Yx2la_cnS-dh44gH99vuhe-E3i_dfjV00PO5FhcRfQI28kbewPBum0IUbO1yVW-BvnAJbJ2FcFTGgNbB4F9JYvShzjpLwJj9Q6w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI11WZiPKlezRlDhJlmRd3PFOgvVkPbfb2hKSIdWRA_N zeFYbuMB2UnCSTZraEBbOH2wDvFL25iTY-VE4eOLAK7d-Yx2la_cnS-dh44gH99vuhe-E3i_dfjV00PO5FhcRfQI28kbewPBum0IUbO1yVW-BvnAJbJ2FcFTGgNbB4F9JYvShzjpLwJj9Q6w=s3212)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6On6pLSd_B0fnxmXDt3LOxJU4SREkqA73Ao1SiNfVUS nFN0y-74e_SpbRpny-Gn-hGb21Cj5-mrqNBq7Nts0-vNkeqL8of9nhtY-VNeyGnc9vde5hatpemQ3QqqlOSIrHk49Sujr17OdSKMDpcWpRU 98j1rd2ix-0x5rva3P9msHehyspSqupEbPv5g=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6On6pLSd_B0fnxmXDt3LOxJU4SREkqA73Ao1SiNfVUS nFN0y-74e_SpbRpny-Gn-hGb21Cj5-mrqNBq7Nts0-vNkeqL8of9nhtY-VNeyGnc9vde5hatpemQ3QqqlOSIrHk49Sujr17OdSKMDpcWpRU 98j1rd2ix-0x5rva3P9msHehyspSqupEbPv5g=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaeArlXqoGKbfTQqrml0AZ5c97o4BvAyrgsxdse0vnte hjqG3PnKnXv_A-RPk1_sQ61U-ie2oaYk598nRiemgual9V1_rSdVYVQLq1IvurgTuw85AAcD2a4 Roeb5iS8tw19ziqRua7gRXW7M8-CV-lWcLbAz-5z9QDhj7vPeXgBkg8ERVRKW3qhtF1jQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaeArlXqoGKbfTQqrml0AZ5c97o4BvAyrgsxdse0vnte hjqG3PnKnXv_A-RPk1_sQ61U-ie2oaYk598nRiemgual9V1_rSdVYVQLq1IvurgTuw85AAcD2a4 Roeb5iS8tw19ziqRua7gRXW7M8-CV-lWcLbAz-5z9QDhj7vPeXgBkg8ERVRKW3qhtF1jQ=s4032)
A couple of minutes down the road, we reach our fifth pub of the day. A 4pm opener apparently, 4:02pm when we arrive, wonder if it is open yet?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdbVSTL2P7QMHJNEmiC2vzx9vAsy86PNipfSVZtMkEoF IC6qG8CewaB3KPo4LAX_rAtF-Ms0yRnPBDBkR67xkAGpn2vv_0K7Ldjg95wkBzVVnu25wGTf7Fi NMtzteOLkgXIt0BB3FnVB0DyTTyH0nR3JYLkyPGaf1vex9cB7H VQV1vfNSMBIwQbZea7w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdbVSTL2P7QMHJNEmiC2vzx9vAsy86PNipfSVZtMkEoF IC6qG8CewaB3KPo4LAX_rAtF-Ms0yRnPBDBkR67xkAGpn2vv_0K7Ldjg95wkBzVVnu25wGTf7Fi NMtzteOLkgXIt0BB3FnVB0DyTTyH0nR3JYLkyPGaf1vex9cB7H VQV1vfNSMBIwQbZea7w=s3362)
"Oi mate, eyes on the prize, camera is this way!"
Pretty sure it has been open long before 4pm, considering the amount of folk nicely settled down with pints and various lesser beverages at Sanctuary, Hartshill (2005 / 3568) . Daddy BRAPA was totally in his element, instructing me to get him a Bailey's Hot Chocolate with cream and marshmallows, and when I turn around to bring the drinks over, he is already making friends with a group of locals, encouraging me to give them a BRAPA beermat/card/badge/sticker/bottle opener (you know, just the usual type of 'merch' I bring along if I remember!) He even enlists the closest lady to do the highlighting, we'll call her Donna Tello for the benefit of this narrative. Dad has also suggested that when I complete a page of the GBG, I put a little green mark in the top right hand corner, but then quickly adds "you probably feel you have enough to do!" when he sees my pained expression. The Fun Sponge is drinking well, but I do feel like a bit of a fun sponge myself compared to Dad's attempts to 'bring the party!' Sanctuary is an interesting one, it has so much tat in little cases around the walls, plus weird throes and carpets, it could be quite irritating if I wasn't numbed by the '5th pub of the day syndrome', almost like the world's worst museum. But the atmosphere is light and easy going, everyone is very jolly, and when Donna Tello and her fellow turtles crawl off, I'm not too surprised to see the HHM from Artisan take their seats. Nice pub this, in a whirlwind, other wordly kind of way. I even thought I could see a celestial body in my pint!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEip4ZtfHBhde_7JmpCJEGnGALhVUR06xmPdWZ5NmoQjKC hKB1r-wy04MjqMoENLhtTZOICO7ZJDp4FbPcgJqke_67TeE3RLr20cQX E-JzxTNIWQ0_AuulLZs2g9sKPzqRAsllfsZ2jLoENFaqsWBYaZbK GWhngFOcPuwQ_2NTbrahll3lhi_es5V_41KA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEip4ZtfHBhde_7JmpCJEGnGALhVUR06xmPdWZ5NmoQjKC hKB1r-wy04MjqMoENLhtTZOICO7ZJDp4FbPcgJqke_67TeE3RLr20cQX E-JzxTNIWQ0_AuulLZs2g9sKPzqRAsllfsZ2jLoENFaqsWBYaZbK GWhngFOcPuwQ_2NTbrahll3lhi_es5V_41KA=s4032)
Jesus in my Fun Sponge
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSpF9K0wWQiOPYTnEiGu4zJQFvQ5UtEWRG3TYsYdddm5 DJKq6KXq9jxSR52DE2NWkquX-xKwiA8BUeC5dSIq3XmfhpJOwKmbIIAKvid8IyxtwpXDwHo-hv_XA8h_duuZr8fvJ4KjN_LzDYj7vAR5iq4NQseVrnoSrGTrL5 JL65F1ifQ4aIqv-6gd8DEw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSpF9K0wWQiOPYTnEiGu4zJQFvQ5UtEWRG3TYsYdddm5 DJKq6KXq9jxSR52DE2NWkquX-xKwiA8BUeC5dSIq3XmfhpJOwKmbIIAKvid8IyxtwpXDwHo-hv_XA8h_duuZr8fvJ4KjN_LzDYj7vAR5iq4NQseVrnoSrGTrL5 JL65F1ifQ4aIqv-6gd8DEw=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgksHjjyA3qud5iLprdU1TnKdSNG8XQ_rf_MFKiR4oIMX yD92LyDjdaF3fg1GsFtAiCgIpe1pvnhc5i1eaEwuwxRCrHyFsp LuSiYrfBfntdP4rJYVmfpSC4wRbBq1nmN-hEGkdDGYyvcc41jRvq-FIpQurTI_ydETo1dfxUqKCBfaa5DOGbML0ozrU1QA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgksHjjyA3qud5iLprdU1TnKdSNG8XQ_rf_MFKiR4oIMX yD92LyDjdaF3fg1GsFtAiCgIpe1pvnhc5i1eaEwuwxRCrHyFsp LuSiYrfBfntdP4rJYVmfpSC4wRbBq1nmN-hEGkdDGYyvcc41jRvq-FIpQurTI_ydETo1dfxUqKCBfaa5DOGbML0ozrU1QA=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdJJhk5ZkUE2sH7MieFhVXg5XeZesB1sew6bNFOGP8CQ 9BD1lqecAVDG8Mn4NfgV78939wAbRLYacDwu_iYZn_TzV_HdT2 2XLSVNjurFDWBRaeSseLFlhwixW1k73dGbQZj8gyTLifx5JkXR djcIAGgRqi-NWkoYxVp1sfSAYywpscvCM0JLGZRmzpeA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdJJhk5ZkUE2sH7MieFhVXg5XeZesB1sew6bNFOGP8CQ 9BD1lqecAVDG8Mn4NfgV78939wAbRLYacDwu_iYZn_TzV_HdT2 2XLSVNjurFDWBRaeSseLFlhwixW1k73dGbQZj8gyTLifx5JkXR djcIAGgRqi-NWkoYxVp1sfSAYywpscvCM0JLGZRmzpeA=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQ_sOoP98HIgjAg-INmg8pSrP8mjIKNca2QbWjkBUZr0WPr32Cd6Mzkf43c8KQtdAy ptS5jHGqwypNjD0QPdRk1BhIwG_TK8NywsYOh9e5Pp9pXM43N0 KYvNoQOHSpfoGesNVGiHu6Nej9iSz_cD8dnjoKpywrGBy42J-8iFV9uCK01raOcFtO0bkkxg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQ_sOoP98HIgjAg-INmg8pSrP8mjIKNca2QbWjkBUZr0WPr32Cd6Mzkf43c8KQtdAy ptS5jHGqwypNjD0QPdRk1BhIwG_TK8NywsYOh9e5Pp9pXM43N0 KYvNoQOHSpfoGesNVGiHu6Nej9iSz_cD8dnjoKpywrGBy42J-8iFV9uCK01raOcFtO0bkkxg=s3183)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguLwliVWEEnmZANrnzhfxdWZ2rec9AkmXWFscm9epv1w fUg7yfV97lrJzNWf7WFzcekCtbX-LMfjJyIq8Gsah7R2ySpKiQIR35tN7PYtPBZVbODmOwlTtAJ9Sd OYABdh5hrIES2ToUpPR7MJQPfmNMygcFutuSii2g_FLwBZzHfI HtnSVMKialI6MXTw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguLwliVWEEnmZANrnzhfxdWZ2rec9AkmXWFscm9epv1w fUg7yfV97lrJzNWf7WFzcekCtbX-LMfjJyIq8Gsah7R2ySpKiQIR35tN7PYtPBZVbODmOwlTtAJ9Sd OYABdh5hrIES2ToUpPR7MJQPfmNMygcFutuSii2g_FLwBZzHfI HtnSVMKialI6MXTw=s4032)
We bus it back to Stoke proper, we've made really good time despite the dreadful start, so one last look at London Road Ale House (2006 / 3569) and we're relieved to see it now open!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgipKskjempCoM5HDtgO0vfrUuSr-nuObBe8oO6sXTC6n2FTF3XXtW4SvLz9C1hHsGgCg2XtFSU46WH JLcRnKz5qbQ5bSPmgVT8OwUvaOs3qQHEu5jdPcRwLBEN-YAxAei8cn00mbfyWfbDTOj8Vk1407VltHFEFOeKHTmMSqpmoLQ 62pNKLmdjgJORlw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgipKskjempCoM5HDtgO0vfrUuSr-nuObBe8oO6sXTC6n2FTF3XXtW4SvLz9C1hHsGgCg2XtFSU46WH JLcRnKz5qbQ5bSPmgVT8OwUvaOs3qQHEu5jdPcRwLBEN-YAxAei8cn00mbfyWfbDTOj8Vk1407VltHFEFOeKHTmMSqpmoLQ 62pNKLmdjgJORlw=s4032)
I quiz the staff re the 12 noon opening no-show, and the guv'nor sat at a table behind overhears and turns around to apologise, saying it is now 4pm winter hours but "I haven't had time to update my social media!" Still, the satisfaction of finally getting that final part of the Stoke area greened up after what has taken a massive effort over the past half year is reward enough for any other shortcomings.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhECJraek1yu4KIiXQgRzNLt3Tf5nXhlQ9T5-8uQZLgTiqq0H7XtzwWz40g2rEvMFioxIA_DXrL2uY1_qm4MsZ2 Ux6RNW8qeotWcDoTyFdOPHYNhcIeUo8Fm4Ppxqxw4ZNDDCO3TB k-cMaV3_tA7AZFdaKUNRnDcQqL1AwG7M7sbBfJcW3VfsB4lTnTVw =s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhECJraek1yu4KIiXQgRzNLt3Tf5nXhlQ9T5-8uQZLgTiqq0H7XtzwWz40g2rEvMFioxIA_DXrL2uY1_qm4MsZ2 Ux6RNW8qeotWcDoTyFdOPHYNhcIeUo8Fm4Ppxqxw4ZNDDCO3TB k-cMaV3_tA7AZFdaKUNRnDcQqL1AwG7M7sbBfJcW3VfsB4lTnTVw =s4032)
Can't lie, he's looked happier today!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-iGSnv_x73s7ZyLF_zTSu-18_b08cuemBrJjWH6pm-TlRACu9Ewspo_I6bsE6GExQbnHvq3ADRHZLW2LtNNnHReMcT5K dpfdvRWW0yjmAPAE77n79ZCEE78kpcgcrPhJQeN1uv7y3Ztv-4k5ceoNn1IudnWaTIQhPC2FqxVmns-7wJk3_7rFP4T97zQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-iGSnv_x73s7ZyLF_zTSu-18_b08cuemBrJjWH6pm-TlRACu9Ewspo_I6bsE6GExQbnHvq3ADRHZLW2LtNNnHReMcT5K dpfdvRWW0yjmAPAE77n79ZCEE78kpcgcrPhJQeN1uv7y3Ztv-4k5ceoNn1IudnWaTIQhPC2FqxVmns-7wJk3_7rFP4T97zQ=s4032)
Not sure what I ordered but wasn't SeaCider
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW3kkbmpTo8vSse43vVc7tQgPKwGCccPU58uZUmLVdq3 CRmWignoM4ncEVoLgFVnu2L-KOuSxRuBVy91CoW1BgkyP8BpDDrBSeTh_OokP_49FZnumeuL0C 1hJempJI4ronOas597oG1lQ7SdBpOqW6zqsorwtv6woMvDHU9G GjYk3XPiBkeH5VQTHpeQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW3kkbmpTo8vSse43vVc7tQgPKwGCccPU58uZUmLVdq3 CRmWignoM4ncEVoLgFVnu2L-KOuSxRuBVy91CoW1BgkyP8BpDDrBSeTh_OokP_49FZnumeuL0C 1hJempJI4ronOas597oG1lQ7SdBpOqW6zqsorwtv6woMvDHU9G GjYk3XPiBkeH5VQTHpeQ=s4032)
On the train to Manchester, I come over all woozy, and I can only think I'm having a bit of an off day combined with drinking beers in the 4.7%-5.2% bracket rather than the usual 3.8%-4.3% beers (specific!) I aim for on a BRAPA day. Can make all the difference.
Still, my ongoing ticketing fiasco means we have to cross Manchester on foot to Victoria, so a nice cold bottle of orange squash on a wintry, bracing 20 minute walk, and then a coffee, Christmas cake and lump of red leicester at my favourite little place, Cigar something, and I feel like a new man by the time we get on the train back to York.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFG1ZQrd5_YeZLXrWtU_1D8Wr5WLebPHV0btPdWtJVaU tYT9_0CcbBqLcsaLaDCKLBnFv0RtpP66IM35ynJJxvMo-wgENBS7I_kv9eiCpiIhKF3Pyb8V5_VIcgwLWJvsr69JUmrsMqx DNHrEPRph20K0IWFhIwUaiskHUqGjgZT0DZ5zoX0rzpdL9_yg= s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFG1ZQrd5_YeZLXrWtU_1D8Wr5WLebPHV0btPdWtJVaU tYT9_0CcbBqLcsaLaDCKLBnFv0RtpP66IM35ynJJxvMo-wgENBS7I_kv9eiCpiIhKF3Pyb8V5_VIcgwLWJvsr69JUmrsMqx DNHrEPRph20K0IWFhIwUaiskHUqGjgZT0DZ5zoX0rzpdL9_yg= s4032)
Victoria recovery
Lovely surprise waiting for me when I get home too, as Jane Stuart has sent me her 'unlucky but still good enough to beat Hull City' Blackpool hat, and got herself a new one, and sent a lovely little letter with it. Look out for it on my forthcoming winter travels. SO comfy too, it hugs your head, and I actually fell asleep in it whilst drinking a Glitterberry J20 and watching some Channel 5 countdown programme, Best 100 animated turtle films or something.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0LojCoB_blfQvle7AvF-21HwHP7XRPAyL2dWB9SIi_QcZ7EOF9dnc8wqO2eOkJz0pfUU6W jAS5QMVW7jpHGdUXyvgaIls43HOZ89vlCARGWXVrA7XoTp9THp BRnWmoFmtdH2ecwDAhLKufCzY4NzS0_PImmntInH8bploQK1R0 qntE1VZtGukqj0vOw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0LojCoB_blfQvle7AvF-21HwHP7XRPAyL2dWB9SIi_QcZ7EOF9dnc8wqO2eOkJz0pfUU6W jAS5QMVW7jpHGdUXyvgaIls43HOZ89vlCARGWXVrA7XoTp9THp BRnWmoFmtdH2ecwDAhLKufCzY4NzS0_PImmntInH8bploQK1R0 qntE1VZtGukqj0vOw=s1024)
Had been a surprisingly high quality day, massive thanks to Daddy BRAPA, the folk of Stoke and surround, plus some comfortable nicely furnished micros for making all the difference.
I'll be back tomorrow night at a similar time tomorrow to give you all the gen on a Thirsty Thursday in Great Ayton. Got a bonkers spell of pubby activity from Thu-Tue coming up so am trying to keep on top of the blogs whilst I can!
Til then, goodnight, Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/01/brapa-in-partners-in-kryme-in-newcastle.html)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZQRDoUwaPEaHhWKnmwXZR63oXCu1WelAdG0NPL3OzBc ZzqVRmu9wSn1Z9Ij1_r5cXiYu3W8yZeFQKLXvcHywkDlmjgn2v bs7Qhb3PHoZJk9XFxnMEMkK8URlzc_SyOb_zWTmpof1pC0imLe Oz-1sNupwCPvz12J5jb4ppkp1yy1QzOwsjRbJ-e_jI2w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZQRDoUwaPEaHhWKnmwXZR63oXCu1WelAdG0NPL3OzBc ZzqVRmu9wSn1Z9Ij1_r5cXiYu3W8yZeFQKLXvcHywkDlmjgn2v bs7Qhb3PHoZJk9XFxnMEMkK8URlzc_SyOb_zWTmpof1pC0imLe Oz-1sNupwCPvz12J5jb4ppkp1yy1QzOwsjRbJ-e_jI2w=s681)
Now living in the sewers beneath Stoke town centre
Today was going pretty well after a slow start. Wellers and the Boat & Horses had earned their BRAPA gold stars, and it was time for pub #3.
Time to negotiate one of the most upsetting underpasses I've ever witnessed. How we came up in the right place, I'll never know! Too busy looking at my phone, Daddy BRAPA exclaims "Cowabunga!" or words to that effect, because he has seen this lovely looking building, the Holy Trinity Catholic Church and some time vaccination centre for the insane ......
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI0BOMRSmJ0VkS4DFLGLyl6WZuGAmWVXs2RoLI6tcdVl qSoMBYSxatkYctkC3zD3msZ77n6rh_9C0dgmQfs5ThPCyEeChg 5aKOe3-QaRCjGRwkRdjraBHh-CkulPUsw2iFNzDz4LpskBwY_5qEhwG0GLurYCO3bn1wUa2XGZ0 1jOl-w8qUnqaErpq82Q=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI0BOMRSmJ0VkS4DFLGLyl6WZuGAmWVXs2RoLI6tcdVl qSoMBYSxatkYctkC3zD3msZ77n6rh_9C0dgmQfs5ThPCyEeChg 5aKOe3-QaRCjGRwkRdjraBHh-CkulPUsw2iFNzDz4LpskBwY_5qEhwG0GLurYCO3bn1wUa2XGZ0 1jOl-w8qUnqaErpq82Q=s4032)
Our next pub was the key one geographically, a bit of a walk, but still classed as Newcastle-under-Lyme though it must have been bordering Hartshill, where our 4th and 5th pubs would be found. We passed the sort of disturbing street art that makes up 30% of RetiredMartin's blogs ......
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdYym9tS2-oC5gjkXovFSsZXH33e6gxTt14FmAjtNETUQerdX5PmQdqKyJg3 APmWYkhhjr7UCWXMep4Ep16LbIhlgIm2fVHfPd4tm8ZxmTZUMc IacFpLbMYzZ3iM1Prr2uXotHRxYRe6ts3z13RORR5Ukp5GULJA 6gUSWE3requEenL8F_m8iIRRDzOQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdYym9tS2-oC5gjkXovFSsZXH33e6gxTt14FmAjtNETUQerdX5PmQdqKyJg3 APmWYkhhjr7UCWXMep4Ep16LbIhlgIm2fVHfPd4tm8ZxmTZUMc IacFpLbMYzZ3iM1Prr2uXotHRxYRe6ts3z13RORR5Ukp5GULJA 6gUSWE3requEenL8F_m8iIRRDzOQ=s4032)
When we see the pub, it is the most quintessentially micro backdrop. My bingo card would be flashing if I'd brought it. Set back off the road, next to a tattoo parlour and funeral services .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCxuI0DplSdKbsI5j9Qx0yAOSPbK5Bc-23L1CqbQPq6U87ne2NUgEYNF1ijg7pXK5OWQoK6WCZZExtMu41 hTqPRS09MBSbO62gfAlVdxb2V56t3Kteq6FRnmHiS5xASyPYup k9KSdd5iLUxweIUFU9Xe3JM3WH2dlbn7nQAn28iw_YIKxCGHcJ 36GsFQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCxuI0DplSdKbsI5j9Qx0yAOSPbK5Bc-23L1CqbQPq6U87ne2NUgEYNF1ijg7pXK5OWQoK6WCZZExtMu41 hTqPRS09MBSbO62gfAlVdxb2V56t3Kteq6FRnmHiS5xASyPYup k9KSdd5iLUxweIUFU9Xe3JM3WH2dlbn7nQAn28iw_YIKxCGHcJ 36GsFQ=s4032)
It didn't exactly fill you with the joys of spring, but Daddy BRAPA was looking chipper enough with his trademark smile .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0A0lBJjc81SPKRpJro-9BVnDyjgMAKGdXbqfbkyCYaxXoswHtprree9OJVNufd38GD1be-VjJKi672-XaVyphgLu2W3glMLPTDImV6WkXnSbso-MlbPmQBMY6bMH_vKQNEv0PyzZf_ZQJQoWmzyUEiIxZJNvJD2bN zpszuAs9KHZdztt6qTm7gbEzXw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0A0lBJjc81SPKRpJro-9BVnDyjgMAKGdXbqfbkyCYaxXoswHtprree9OJVNufd38GD1be-VjJKi672-XaVyphgLu2W3glMLPTDImV6WkXnSbso-MlbPmQBMY6bMH_vKQNEv0PyzZf_ZQJQoWmzyUEiIxZJNvJD2bN zpszuAs9KHZdztt6qTm7gbEzXw=s4032)
Another BRAPA day, another GBG entry called Cask , this one Newcastle-under-Lyme (2003 / 3566) and at this point in history, I'm assuming there are now more Casks than Red Lions. In spite of ourselves, we are pleasantly surprised as we take our pints of Thirst Class Oatmeal Stout, served by a very nice bloke, around a corner, perfect for a bit of 'own food smuggling'. Although Dad is disappointed at the pub's missed business opportunity of having a guest ale on named 'Kevin Lownds Embalming Fluid' he is inspired enough to observe that he feels the standard of micropubs has improved since our early days of visiting them circa 2012. Ones like this and Wellers, and those we observed on New Year's Day in Blackpool, have warmth, depth and comfortable seating. This one even has horse racing on the TV. Maybe micropubs are merging into pubs, and the term will soon be obsolete, the founding father Mr Hillier can be knighted for his services to the pub industry, and we can move on. Hard as it is for me to watch any horse race without thinking of the Peter Cook / Dudley Moore Derek & Clive horse racing sketch, I'm so convinced the horse called Indy Five is going to win, I refuse to let Dad leave until we've seen the race. Of course, it finishes nowhere. And there we go, this pub representing one of the most thrilling aspects of pub ticking - 'expecting it to be shite, turns out (more than) alright'.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiskQMbT6DOP3UI8vPDxfkZhZcc4B8sHOhDmdvdHhG-27ryrl1qx0oTg7fitTw2Hj-QW4Qde_wxbD48LoYaT_EG-oAycdk6ycnEDyQ2VXLFQO4QXfZu0pUQRHDyFz5fuxi6ZvaAthA OjXjjKV3RR_eK2JwOSQqc84t4lttZZPsmISw7hpEPkcsuXb195 w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiskQMbT6DOP3UI8vPDxfkZhZcc4B8sHOhDmdvdHhG-27ryrl1qx0oTg7fitTw2Hj-QW4Qde_wxbD48LoYaT_EG-oAycdk6ycnEDyQ2VXLFQO4QXfZu0pUQRHDyFz5fuxi6ZvaAthA OjXjjKV3RR_eK2JwOSQqc84t4lttZZPsmISw7hpEPkcsuXb195 w=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUrAVT23oT3_yCENr4Wr6ui2wVPKB-9ujKoUez4IUJiiwjf0ZJ_QiHIaQvhpxn_1yZUQ91rdD18JUYOB 8TEDjRWZi_6F6Tzjrw2iZw0liAY83dZs6Yzs7vyqepTlHPUJ4Q C86Ro_j9ouPamczSWmZEAX01QT9ltx_GwwQTbnd1v-5o1hAFTieDGIkNjQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUrAVT23oT3_yCENr4Wr6ui2wVPKB-9ujKoUez4IUJiiwjf0ZJ_QiHIaQvhpxn_1yZUQ91rdD18JUYOB 8TEDjRWZi_6F6Tzjrw2iZw0liAY83dZs6Yzs7vyqepTlHPUJ4Q C86Ro_j9ouPamczSWmZEAX01QT9ltx_GwwQTbnd1v-5o1hAFTieDGIkNjQ=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxS8N_PuSoGDYI7izfVNPiwKGEdovSsr6D8YNJRHG250 p4OWONyAlqzpsruyAIkagAZ-GOxKsAa9-jMJri4aLVDuRQUKoqKMh71g1NF1FJojWU0JeTVa5wZgGYAD0iJ o25G_ERkz4k1CKCtCtcqo3M6kSG7kueWKdhjylY4TFW0esFzcO qsWYbEo4SEw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxS8N_PuSoGDYI7izfVNPiwKGEdovSsr6D8YNJRHG250 p4OWONyAlqzpsruyAIkagAZ-GOxKsAa9-jMJri4aLVDuRQUKoqKMh71g1NF1FJojWU0JeTVa5wZgGYAD0iJ o25G_ERkz4k1CKCtCtcqo3M6kSG7kueWKdhjylY4TFW0esFzcO qsWYbEo4SEw=s4032)
We crossed the invisible border into Hartshill, where the first of two pubs were found on the same road. The second of which doesn't open til 4pm, so no rush, being only 3:17pm.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbZcIp0ZY_uSSpx0f_g-O--UWs0PLRig6t4DJP6NKLRXPgd6yaXI3HGw-UPP4EGQi2BUIrOeJFxUuaxQahm3OBurT0PkbmtcmcL2pxHVH5K 6_OmILVDQ4O8XGk_yOzKGuCczKtSzxipPCRBU0SkM1gBtWJvaH lF5GqpppDeirDD80z9s7p2qQ-SPPDQw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbZcIp0ZY_uSSpx0f_g-O--UWs0PLRig6t4DJP6NKLRXPgd6yaXI3HGw-UPP4EGQi2BUIrOeJFxUuaxQahm3OBurT0PkbmtcmcL2pxHVH5K 6_OmILVDQ4O8XGk_yOzKGuCczKtSzxipPCRBU0SkM1gBtWJvaH lF5GqpppDeirDD80z9s7p2qQ-SPPDQw=s3024)
I quite like the look of the Old House at Home next door actually, with its smoking, gurning men in dirty vests scowling at me from the doorway, but the GBG has spoken, and Artisan Tap, Hartshill (2004 / 3567) it is. A flowery sparkly camp little place, seemingly appealing to the Hartshill Hipster Massive (HHM) which I didn't think existed until today. If this was the Artisan, the Old House at Home was the Partizan (Belgrade). Despite having a very different atmosphere from Cask and Wellers, it has an ambience, even if I can't really work out what the tiny birdcages, pink poodles and jokey blackboards are all about. Not sure the barmaid looks at us once, never mind speaks as she pulls our Oakham Infernos, preferring to be sat at a table on her laptop. Not exactly April O'Neil. Call me old fashioned, but I never think its a good look for a pub or bar when the staff are never behind them. The upstairs loos interest me, I can't quite remember why, I don't suppose it was just the 60p bleach, but it helped. Paired well with the Inferno anyway, which was my favourite pint of the day.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhrVK0vvKqYuqiY_OUZetIlm_AEFKHCQDADUTvhB1w_w 43gzS17z43WhrUxLQuvQQ2meDbpG0Q87oi4oiEo0y7seYSr--56YiB1RJKsPaBkjcEfKyVawJMdITBF72KQrNa6J6qkYczjb80F psxj59sDHq5t3YdSFxqq3F2Ez_uUYp256Jp4XPO_yL6rw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhrVK0vvKqYuqiY_OUZetIlm_AEFKHCQDADUTvhB1w_w 43gzS17z43WhrUxLQuvQQ2meDbpG0Q87oi4oiEo0y7seYSr--56YiB1RJKsPaBkjcEfKyVawJMdITBF72KQrNa6J6qkYczjb80F psxj59sDHq5t3YdSFxqq3F2Ez_uUYp256Jp4XPO_yL6rw=s403 2)
Top lacings
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-N7zc5HtPwQEEpADDx29Urs249L00AyrghNYj-DLrdqPLwaYRNlnSFhoBjgToxC22Ev4NyQWm1cds9fuKmIH1cvZ 9piaAc1MGVsL1zwwtqjJmgSX-MYOTe8Pbbb7Om7E3LgwCPQeOfaxY_UYYr7a1u2zrMVSA4m4vO4 ztjnC7NDct_0KtrLqBZowtlw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-N7zc5HtPwQEEpADDx29Urs249L00AyrghNYj-DLrdqPLwaYRNlnSFhoBjgToxC22Ev4NyQWm1cds9fuKmIH1cvZ 9piaAc1MGVsL1zwwtqjJmgSX-MYOTe8Pbbb7Om7E3LgwCPQeOfaxY_UYYr7a1u2zrMVSA4m4vO4 ztjnC7NDct_0KtrLqBZowtlw=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgZr3-XXfRfqCMWCmsGjGf40CMZFRSopT9koSYkQ4HDkpBOa7w5ZQbjz nsIO_LwQuPw87UZiuN3j0xxnyDgnLHuqn4gL5nz4C9KD1rd081 dl3ZcP7kJN7wDJyqHmLz-9Xph93NQi7t5jDwztg4md0RPtIeCET8RAeBHwkxCwqmEPF-rtYy6fx0cl533lw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgZr3-XXfRfqCMWCmsGjGf40CMZFRSopT9koSYkQ4HDkpBOa7w5ZQbjz nsIO_LwQuPw87UZiuN3j0xxnyDgnLHuqn4gL5nz4C9KD1rd081 dl3ZcP7kJN7wDJyqHmLz-9Xph93NQi7t5jDwztg4md0RPtIeCET8RAeBHwkxCwqmEPF-rtYy6fx0cl533lw=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI11WZiPKlezRlDhJlmRd3PFOgvVkPbfb2hKSIdWRA_N zeFYbuMB2UnCSTZraEBbOH2wDvFL25iTY-VE4eOLAK7d-Yx2la_cnS-dh44gH99vuhe-E3i_dfjV00PO5FhcRfQI28kbewPBum0IUbO1yVW-BvnAJbJ2FcFTGgNbB4F9JYvShzjpLwJj9Q6w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI11WZiPKlezRlDhJlmRd3PFOgvVkPbfb2hKSIdWRA_N zeFYbuMB2UnCSTZraEBbOH2wDvFL25iTY-VE4eOLAK7d-Yx2la_cnS-dh44gH99vuhe-E3i_dfjV00PO5FhcRfQI28kbewPBum0IUbO1yVW-BvnAJbJ2FcFTGgNbB4F9JYvShzjpLwJj9Q6w=s3212)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6On6pLSd_B0fnxmXDt3LOxJU4SREkqA73Ao1SiNfVUS nFN0y-74e_SpbRpny-Gn-hGb21Cj5-mrqNBq7Nts0-vNkeqL8of9nhtY-VNeyGnc9vde5hatpemQ3QqqlOSIrHk49Sujr17OdSKMDpcWpRU 98j1rd2ix-0x5rva3P9msHehyspSqupEbPv5g=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6On6pLSd_B0fnxmXDt3LOxJU4SREkqA73Ao1SiNfVUS nFN0y-74e_SpbRpny-Gn-hGb21Cj5-mrqNBq7Nts0-vNkeqL8of9nhtY-VNeyGnc9vde5hatpemQ3QqqlOSIrHk49Sujr17OdSKMDpcWpRU 98j1rd2ix-0x5rva3P9msHehyspSqupEbPv5g=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaeArlXqoGKbfTQqrml0AZ5c97o4BvAyrgsxdse0vnte hjqG3PnKnXv_A-RPk1_sQ61U-ie2oaYk598nRiemgual9V1_rSdVYVQLq1IvurgTuw85AAcD2a4 Roeb5iS8tw19ziqRua7gRXW7M8-CV-lWcLbAz-5z9QDhj7vPeXgBkg8ERVRKW3qhtF1jQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaeArlXqoGKbfTQqrml0AZ5c97o4BvAyrgsxdse0vnte hjqG3PnKnXv_A-RPk1_sQ61U-ie2oaYk598nRiemgual9V1_rSdVYVQLq1IvurgTuw85AAcD2a4 Roeb5iS8tw19ziqRua7gRXW7M8-CV-lWcLbAz-5z9QDhj7vPeXgBkg8ERVRKW3qhtF1jQ=s4032)
A couple of minutes down the road, we reach our fifth pub of the day. A 4pm opener apparently, 4:02pm when we arrive, wonder if it is open yet?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdbVSTL2P7QMHJNEmiC2vzx9vAsy86PNipfSVZtMkEoF IC6qG8CewaB3KPo4LAX_rAtF-Ms0yRnPBDBkR67xkAGpn2vv_0K7Ldjg95wkBzVVnu25wGTf7Fi NMtzteOLkgXIt0BB3FnVB0DyTTyH0nR3JYLkyPGaf1vex9cB7H VQV1vfNSMBIwQbZea7w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdbVSTL2P7QMHJNEmiC2vzx9vAsy86PNipfSVZtMkEoF IC6qG8CewaB3KPo4LAX_rAtF-Ms0yRnPBDBkR67xkAGpn2vv_0K7Ldjg95wkBzVVnu25wGTf7Fi NMtzteOLkgXIt0BB3FnVB0DyTTyH0nR3JYLkyPGaf1vex9cB7H VQV1vfNSMBIwQbZea7w=s3362)
"Oi mate, eyes on the prize, camera is this way!"
Pretty sure it has been open long before 4pm, considering the amount of folk nicely settled down with pints and various lesser beverages at Sanctuary, Hartshill (2005 / 3568) . Daddy BRAPA was totally in his element, instructing me to get him a Bailey's Hot Chocolate with cream and marshmallows, and when I turn around to bring the drinks over, he is already making friends with a group of locals, encouraging me to give them a BRAPA beermat/card/badge/sticker/bottle opener (you know, just the usual type of 'merch' I bring along if I remember!) He even enlists the closest lady to do the highlighting, we'll call her Donna Tello for the benefit of this narrative. Dad has also suggested that when I complete a page of the GBG, I put a little green mark in the top right hand corner, but then quickly adds "you probably feel you have enough to do!" when he sees my pained expression. The Fun Sponge is drinking well, but I do feel like a bit of a fun sponge myself compared to Dad's attempts to 'bring the party!' Sanctuary is an interesting one, it has so much tat in little cases around the walls, plus weird throes and carpets, it could be quite irritating if I wasn't numbed by the '5th pub of the day syndrome', almost like the world's worst museum. But the atmosphere is light and easy going, everyone is very jolly, and when Donna Tello and her fellow turtles crawl off, I'm not too surprised to see the HHM from Artisan take their seats. Nice pub this, in a whirlwind, other wordly kind of way. I even thought I could see a celestial body in my pint!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEip4ZtfHBhde_7JmpCJEGnGALhVUR06xmPdWZ5NmoQjKC hKB1r-wy04MjqMoENLhtTZOICO7ZJDp4FbPcgJqke_67TeE3RLr20cQX E-JzxTNIWQ0_AuulLZs2g9sKPzqRAsllfsZ2jLoENFaqsWBYaZbK GWhngFOcPuwQ_2NTbrahll3lhi_es5V_41KA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEip4ZtfHBhde_7JmpCJEGnGALhVUR06xmPdWZ5NmoQjKC hKB1r-wy04MjqMoENLhtTZOICO7ZJDp4FbPcgJqke_67TeE3RLr20cQX E-JzxTNIWQ0_AuulLZs2g9sKPzqRAsllfsZ2jLoENFaqsWBYaZbK GWhngFOcPuwQ_2NTbrahll3lhi_es5V_41KA=s4032)
Jesus in my Fun Sponge
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSpF9K0wWQiOPYTnEiGu4zJQFvQ5UtEWRG3TYsYdddm5 DJKq6KXq9jxSR52DE2NWkquX-xKwiA8BUeC5dSIq3XmfhpJOwKmbIIAKvid8IyxtwpXDwHo-hv_XA8h_duuZr8fvJ4KjN_LzDYj7vAR5iq4NQseVrnoSrGTrL5 JL65F1ifQ4aIqv-6gd8DEw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSpF9K0wWQiOPYTnEiGu4zJQFvQ5UtEWRG3TYsYdddm5 DJKq6KXq9jxSR52DE2NWkquX-xKwiA8BUeC5dSIq3XmfhpJOwKmbIIAKvid8IyxtwpXDwHo-hv_XA8h_duuZr8fvJ4KjN_LzDYj7vAR5iq4NQseVrnoSrGTrL5 JL65F1ifQ4aIqv-6gd8DEw=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgksHjjyA3qud5iLprdU1TnKdSNG8XQ_rf_MFKiR4oIMX yD92LyDjdaF3fg1GsFtAiCgIpe1pvnhc5i1eaEwuwxRCrHyFsp LuSiYrfBfntdP4rJYVmfpSC4wRbBq1nmN-hEGkdDGYyvcc41jRvq-FIpQurTI_ydETo1dfxUqKCBfaa5DOGbML0ozrU1QA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgksHjjyA3qud5iLprdU1TnKdSNG8XQ_rf_MFKiR4oIMX yD92LyDjdaF3fg1GsFtAiCgIpe1pvnhc5i1eaEwuwxRCrHyFsp LuSiYrfBfntdP4rJYVmfpSC4wRbBq1nmN-hEGkdDGYyvcc41jRvq-FIpQurTI_ydETo1dfxUqKCBfaa5DOGbML0ozrU1QA=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdJJhk5ZkUE2sH7MieFhVXg5XeZesB1sew6bNFOGP8CQ 9BD1lqecAVDG8Mn4NfgV78939wAbRLYacDwu_iYZn_TzV_HdT2 2XLSVNjurFDWBRaeSseLFlhwixW1k73dGbQZj8gyTLifx5JkXR djcIAGgRqi-NWkoYxVp1sfSAYywpscvCM0JLGZRmzpeA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdJJhk5ZkUE2sH7MieFhVXg5XeZesB1sew6bNFOGP8CQ 9BD1lqecAVDG8Mn4NfgV78939wAbRLYacDwu_iYZn_TzV_HdT2 2XLSVNjurFDWBRaeSseLFlhwixW1k73dGbQZj8gyTLifx5JkXR djcIAGgRqi-NWkoYxVp1sfSAYywpscvCM0JLGZRmzpeA=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQ_sOoP98HIgjAg-INmg8pSrP8mjIKNca2QbWjkBUZr0WPr32Cd6Mzkf43c8KQtdAy ptS5jHGqwypNjD0QPdRk1BhIwG_TK8NywsYOh9e5Pp9pXM43N0 KYvNoQOHSpfoGesNVGiHu6Nej9iSz_cD8dnjoKpywrGBy42J-8iFV9uCK01raOcFtO0bkkxg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQ_sOoP98HIgjAg-INmg8pSrP8mjIKNca2QbWjkBUZr0WPr32Cd6Mzkf43c8KQtdAy ptS5jHGqwypNjD0QPdRk1BhIwG_TK8NywsYOh9e5Pp9pXM43N0 KYvNoQOHSpfoGesNVGiHu6Nej9iSz_cD8dnjoKpywrGBy42J-8iFV9uCK01raOcFtO0bkkxg=s3183)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguLwliVWEEnmZANrnzhfxdWZ2rec9AkmXWFscm9epv1w fUg7yfV97lrJzNWf7WFzcekCtbX-LMfjJyIq8Gsah7R2ySpKiQIR35tN7PYtPBZVbODmOwlTtAJ9Sd OYABdh5hrIES2ToUpPR7MJQPfmNMygcFutuSii2g_FLwBZzHfI HtnSVMKialI6MXTw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguLwliVWEEnmZANrnzhfxdWZ2rec9AkmXWFscm9epv1w fUg7yfV97lrJzNWf7WFzcekCtbX-LMfjJyIq8Gsah7R2ySpKiQIR35tN7PYtPBZVbODmOwlTtAJ9Sd OYABdh5hrIES2ToUpPR7MJQPfmNMygcFutuSii2g_FLwBZzHfI HtnSVMKialI6MXTw=s4032)
We bus it back to Stoke proper, we've made really good time despite the dreadful start, so one last look at London Road Ale House (2006 / 3569) and we're relieved to see it now open!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgipKskjempCoM5HDtgO0vfrUuSr-nuObBe8oO6sXTC6n2FTF3XXtW4SvLz9C1hHsGgCg2XtFSU46WH JLcRnKz5qbQ5bSPmgVT8OwUvaOs3qQHEu5jdPcRwLBEN-YAxAei8cn00mbfyWfbDTOj8Vk1407VltHFEFOeKHTmMSqpmoLQ 62pNKLmdjgJORlw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgipKskjempCoM5HDtgO0vfrUuSr-nuObBe8oO6sXTC6n2FTF3XXtW4SvLz9C1hHsGgCg2XtFSU46WH JLcRnKz5qbQ5bSPmgVT8OwUvaOs3qQHEu5jdPcRwLBEN-YAxAei8cn00mbfyWfbDTOj8Vk1407VltHFEFOeKHTmMSqpmoLQ 62pNKLmdjgJORlw=s4032)
I quiz the staff re the 12 noon opening no-show, and the guv'nor sat at a table behind overhears and turns around to apologise, saying it is now 4pm winter hours but "I haven't had time to update my social media!" Still, the satisfaction of finally getting that final part of the Stoke area greened up after what has taken a massive effort over the past half year is reward enough for any other shortcomings.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhECJraek1yu4KIiXQgRzNLt3Tf5nXhlQ9T5-8uQZLgTiqq0H7XtzwWz40g2rEvMFioxIA_DXrL2uY1_qm4MsZ2 Ux6RNW8qeotWcDoTyFdOPHYNhcIeUo8Fm4Ppxqxw4ZNDDCO3TB k-cMaV3_tA7AZFdaKUNRnDcQqL1AwG7M7sbBfJcW3VfsB4lTnTVw =s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhECJraek1yu4KIiXQgRzNLt3Tf5nXhlQ9T5-8uQZLgTiqq0H7XtzwWz40g2rEvMFioxIA_DXrL2uY1_qm4MsZ2 Ux6RNW8qeotWcDoTyFdOPHYNhcIeUo8Fm4Ppxqxw4ZNDDCO3TB k-cMaV3_tA7AZFdaKUNRnDcQqL1AwG7M7sbBfJcW3VfsB4lTnTVw =s4032)
Can't lie, he's looked happier today!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-iGSnv_x73s7ZyLF_zTSu-18_b08cuemBrJjWH6pm-TlRACu9Ewspo_I6bsE6GExQbnHvq3ADRHZLW2LtNNnHReMcT5K dpfdvRWW0yjmAPAE77n79ZCEE78kpcgcrPhJQeN1uv7y3Ztv-4k5ceoNn1IudnWaTIQhPC2FqxVmns-7wJk3_7rFP4T97zQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-iGSnv_x73s7ZyLF_zTSu-18_b08cuemBrJjWH6pm-TlRACu9Ewspo_I6bsE6GExQbnHvq3ADRHZLW2LtNNnHReMcT5K dpfdvRWW0yjmAPAE77n79ZCEE78kpcgcrPhJQeN1uv7y3Ztv-4k5ceoNn1IudnWaTIQhPC2FqxVmns-7wJk3_7rFP4T97zQ=s4032)
Not sure what I ordered but wasn't SeaCider
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW3kkbmpTo8vSse43vVc7tQgPKwGCccPU58uZUmLVdq3 CRmWignoM4ncEVoLgFVnu2L-KOuSxRuBVy91CoW1BgkyP8BpDDrBSeTh_OokP_49FZnumeuL0C 1hJempJI4ronOas597oG1lQ7SdBpOqW6zqsorwtv6woMvDHU9G GjYk3XPiBkeH5VQTHpeQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW3kkbmpTo8vSse43vVc7tQgPKwGCccPU58uZUmLVdq3 CRmWignoM4ncEVoLgFVnu2L-KOuSxRuBVy91CoW1BgkyP8BpDDrBSeTh_OokP_49FZnumeuL0C 1hJempJI4ronOas597oG1lQ7SdBpOqW6zqsorwtv6woMvDHU9G GjYk3XPiBkeH5VQTHpeQ=s4032)
On the train to Manchester, I come over all woozy, and I can only think I'm having a bit of an off day combined with drinking beers in the 4.7%-5.2% bracket rather than the usual 3.8%-4.3% beers (specific!) I aim for on a BRAPA day. Can make all the difference.
Still, my ongoing ticketing fiasco means we have to cross Manchester on foot to Victoria, so a nice cold bottle of orange squash on a wintry, bracing 20 minute walk, and then a coffee, Christmas cake and lump of red leicester at my favourite little place, Cigar something, and I feel like a new man by the time we get on the train back to York.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFG1ZQrd5_YeZLXrWtU_1D8Wr5WLebPHV0btPdWtJVaU tYT9_0CcbBqLcsaLaDCKLBnFv0RtpP66IM35ynJJxvMo-wgENBS7I_kv9eiCpiIhKF3Pyb8V5_VIcgwLWJvsr69JUmrsMqx DNHrEPRph20K0IWFhIwUaiskHUqGjgZT0DZ5zoX0rzpdL9_yg= s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFG1ZQrd5_YeZLXrWtU_1D8Wr5WLebPHV0btPdWtJVaU tYT9_0CcbBqLcsaLaDCKLBnFv0RtpP66IM35ynJJxvMo-wgENBS7I_kv9eiCpiIhKF3Pyb8V5_VIcgwLWJvsr69JUmrsMqx DNHrEPRph20K0IWFhIwUaiskHUqGjgZT0DZ5zoX0rzpdL9_yg= s4032)
Victoria recovery
Lovely surprise waiting for me when I get home too, as Jane Stuart has sent me her 'unlucky but still good enough to beat Hull City' Blackpool hat, and got herself a new one, and sent a lovely little letter with it. Look out for it on my forthcoming winter travels. SO comfy too, it hugs your head, and I actually fell asleep in it whilst drinking a Glitterberry J20 and watching some Channel 5 countdown programme, Best 100 animated turtle films or something.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0LojCoB_blfQvle7AvF-21HwHP7XRPAyL2dWB9SIi_QcZ7EOF9dnc8wqO2eOkJz0pfUU6W jAS5QMVW7jpHGdUXyvgaIls43HOZ89vlCARGWXVrA7XoTp9THp BRnWmoFmtdH2ecwDAhLKufCzY4NzS0_PImmntInH8bploQK1R0 qntE1VZtGukqj0vOw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0LojCoB_blfQvle7AvF-21HwHP7XRPAyL2dWB9SIi_QcZ7EOF9dnc8wqO2eOkJz0pfUU6W jAS5QMVW7jpHGdUXyvgaIls43HOZ89vlCARGWXVrA7XoTp9THp BRnWmoFmtdH2ecwDAhLKufCzY4NzS0_PImmntInH8bploQK1R0 qntE1VZtGukqj0vOw=s1024)
Had been a surprisingly high quality day, massive thanks to Daddy BRAPA, the folk of Stoke and surround, plus some comfortable nicely furnished micros for making all the difference.
I'll be back tomorrow night at a similar time tomorrow to give you all the gen on a Thirsty Thursday in Great Ayton. Got a bonkers spell of pubby activity from Thu-Tue coming up so am trying to keep on top of the blogs whilst I can!
Til then, goodnight, Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/01/brapa-in-partners-in-kryme-in-newcastle.html)