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11-02-2022, 20:42
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Welcome back. And if you joined us for the previous episode, you'll know that I was on a long bumpy bus ride back to Scarborough on a dark wintry evening, having ticked off four of the best/worst in Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay.
A drunk Mum has to helped off the bus by her apologetic daughter somewhere close to Cloughton. A couple of times, drunk Mum had tried to get my attention. I ignored her. "Oi, you think you are better than me, is that it?" she eventually slurred. The answer of course, was 'yes, I very much am'.
Being 6:40pm, my final GBG tick of the night (a club) was not open yet, and you can't say that very often. So I let the bus go right through to the railway station, so I could have a widdle ('in' not 'on', I'd like to clarify for those of you who still haven't forgiven me for Newark. I lost more followers than Kurt Zouma that day).
I made my way through the Scabby mean streets until the club came into view. Light on, door open, someone at home. 6:55pm. Now, if this was 11:55am, I'd wait until 12:01pm in a bid to be deferential, but at this time of day 'sod it, what kinda place opens 7pm anyway?' was more my attitude.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrdA-2X25eQonmlGKucjFsUZwhXsEVJutoE2ij4UuKBPoGGXcr4zQpJ szcl4clrP0EE4u9824TPLK8p18z2XiGpivayQKDRV_7zl58m3_ QEODUzdS-v8LIKOvNYhWvzzb6bgpwXZfKbCH34K-MmrevGosqm4fnuwWNVTGCCQph8Lh6P_NxWWdBRPRR5w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrdA-2X25eQonmlGKucjFsUZwhXsEVJutoE2ij4UuKBPoGGXcr4zQpJ szcl4clrP0EE4u9824TPLK8p18z2XiGpivayQKDRV_7zl58m3_ QEODUzdS-v8LIKOvNYhWvzzb6bgpwXZfKbCH34K-MmrevGosqm4fnuwWNVTGCCQph8Lh6P_NxWWdBRPRR5w=s3781)
Using up the Twitter character count all on its own, Scarborough Borough Council Welfare Club, Scarborough (2034 / 3597) even made me widen Column A on the BRAPA spreadsheet being the longest named GBG entry since I recorded Upware, Cambs using the correct full name 'Five Miles from Absolutely Fucking Anywhere Inn'. I crept in rather tentatively, an old dear sat alone on a pub bench, presiding over an empty Quality Street tin filled with raffle tickets. "Are you open yet?" I enquire hesitantly. "Hmmm, not really" she replies. "Oh. I'm just after a pint .... I AM a CAMRA member" I explain, wondering if that'll make a jot of difference. "Oh of course, that's absolutely fine!" she says, effortlessly easing herself up into the space behind the bar in one fluid motion. Impressive. My ale is good and fresh, though slightly too fizzy to be a great pint. She soon sits near me again, explaining her initial reluctance was due to thinking I was 'one of them snooker players', indicating a glass window where snooker tables are indeed housed. Where exactly did she think I was concealing my cue? She talks to me on her love of Whitby's Little Angel, and her York relatives, before a few chaps come in, most carrying unconcealed snooker cues. "No one knows who is playing who tonight, that's the problem" someone complains. They all agree it is Dicko's fault. Poor Dicko. A bloke called Simon with the voice of Keith Lemon chats about a bloke called Keith with a slow puncture. It is all very confusing. I'm far too afraid to try and locate the Gents, apparently behind the glass window down with the snooker tables, which has now begun in earnest. I thank the stewardess (if that's what female club owners are called) and take my leave. Good place.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdl-NoLHJV8geNSuTXQgLlqiNgaT9KTLLxP-0sEp8ZciOYswYv4y7eKpCR_vHxrAWVv2lRUGg6EANYirqVH3lJ eo-6BAbEDfC1z8GPmpVwnwFGyVH80eqh4BVPiOZ71t4Iz1pkyLzkL 0Tl2v9nhgxl4OqWKdcmW-S3bLrzgwkBIzyjNHjAKBGwi9DB6w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdl-NoLHJV8geNSuTXQgLlqiNgaT9KTLLxP-0sEp8ZciOYswYv4y7eKpCR_vHxrAWVv2lRUGg6EANYirqVH3lJ eo-6BAbEDfC1z8GPmpVwnwFGyVH80eqh4BVPiOZ71t4Iz1pkyLzkL 0Tl2v9nhgxl4OqWKdcmW-S3bLrzgwkBIzyjNHjAKBGwi9DB6w=s4032)
Might need a top up on my Azacca, but I'm not asking!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFUraLvZ5grgkIrMlNMXj2-fIgprtj8d0-hg2xE19egr50qOhbsFw_b08M7sAP1epXRXsXtH5paPzkc09x-SkfmIkWsbfdMdxMr1hElAfdDnmS4C7fUaR6CACoAOuXnWWCwp0 dpIvL8O0R2gb79XP05f1F1GEL4bdfvDktjevmIqypN_b252fBI 4nMTw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFUraLvZ5grgkIrMlNMXj2-fIgprtj8d0-hg2xE19egr50qOhbsFw_b08M7sAP1epXRXsXtH5paPzkc09x-SkfmIkWsbfdMdxMr1hElAfdDnmS4C7fUaR6CACoAOuXnWWCwp0 dpIvL8O0R2gb79XP05f1F1GEL4bdfvDktjevmIqypN_b252fBI 4nMTw=s4032)
View to a snooker room
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNN2OwqvH8Z2M2By8-72bmKd-XQm6vbBihKIkYZEQ8yCfxifb6fgcAArxYAnrl0hw_Gb3mlJHoO Q8QxhaUSw9nSQ0M2iGvxmHyzbAIBzexpCyID6eY2BuaVvi3EKo XZK16EFkRqOqCPB003pW0MoOkB1q5YlxXSKz59_0_fBFwrBI1K sQQLpFkU9QUWA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNN2OwqvH8Z2M2By8-72bmKd-XQm6vbBihKIkYZEQ8yCfxifb6fgcAArxYAnrl0hw_Gb3mlJHoO Q8QxhaUSw9nSQ0M2iGvxmHyzbAIBzexpCyID6eY2BuaVvi3EKo XZK16EFkRqOqCPB003pW0MoOkB1q5YlxXSKz59_0_fBFwrBI1K sQQLpFkU9QUWA=s4032)
Keano gets a taste for the ale
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHXUhKDRIG4gGJXC458wqs8ZloQn7nNG0U0gUgnzWvpc gvo1kElwQRsiYDXU0SRUJ6iCCVwizkVq4aYNBb04n1iWhFrSTl IiRZZCekeyewbq4pR6p9OqeFnkoTmmjkxg8QSX0U9WaouZRknI HCyj-gqu6wVajr3qZ3Z6qmUfplk-nuWAHKxCif2TlI5g=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHXUhKDRIG4gGJXC458wqs8ZloQn7nNG0U0gUgnzWvpc gvo1kElwQRsiYDXU0SRUJ6iCCVwizkVq4aYNBb04n1iWhFrSTl IiRZZCekeyewbq4pR6p9OqeFnkoTmmjkxg8QSX0U9WaouZRknI HCyj-gqu6wVajr3qZ3Z6qmUfplk-nuWAHKxCif2TlI5g=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWmNjSmaMzLtLqvfAN8gj0mNRblyzh6IFgAMRVwXQ7w3 hyaYzT0GAjoaW88w8EujeYfkqV8z4gLy0S_6Tg5WvxKa6_3wak bhhjqe8vWHDjKNvy1izT-eNVDReJ5TH7s1T42IMBgH6Wy-o8UujZ6iZ6KxBmm_TiVyPpJfuunHt3SuQ3jW6DI8UonS6LvA=s 320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWmNjSmaMzLtLqvfAN8gj0mNRblyzh6IFgAMRVwXQ7w3 hyaYzT0GAjoaW88w8EujeYfkqV8z4gLy0S_6Tg5WvxKa6_3wak bhhjqe8vWHDjKNvy1izT-eNVDReJ5TH7s1T42IMBgH6Wy-o8UujZ6iZ6KxBmm_TiVyPpJfuunHt3SuQ3jW6DI8UonS6LvA=s 4032)
Blind Sooty - always the sign of a classic (RetiredMartin taught me that)
The old lad I was talking to mostly mentioned a Scarborough pre-emptive on the way back to the station, and it triggered a memory of the same place being mentioned by someone in Whitby's Waiting Room. With about 35 minutes until the York train, perfect timing, it had to be done.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP7LwS9A0lEvigbzzXXzmiDjIZ8khbJ-abNqYzbtpcLwa8PFlh906w3o6dA4F09GYjEJqQDW7rs8FylWJK Vx7E3M3pM5rZU1FncH7Glr7mdzQOdZB8LcN61TSdjt-LyXK9enQzfpfW3KVO0nYpSf_xnX6NyEVgWw3kBukGQspOXqJQP gvhTsQ4U0GnHQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP7LwS9A0lEvigbzzXXzmiDjIZ8khbJ-abNqYzbtpcLwa8PFlh906w3o6dA4F09GYjEJqQDW7rs8FylWJK Vx7E3M3pM5rZU1FncH7Glr7mdzQOdZB8LcN61TSdjt-LyXK9enQzfpfW3KVO0nYpSf_xnX6NyEVgWw3kBukGQspOXqJQP gvhTsQ4U0GnHQ=s3101)
Historically, I don't have a lot of luck with Scarborough pre-emptives, by which I mean Firk Inn has never made it into the GBG yet. Having said that, it did only have Doom Bar on, and a Seadogs fan told me he could kill me in a few seconds by just pressing my neck in a certain place. And now I've visited Craft Bar, Scarborough I'm even less convinced of its GBG potential, despite a nicely kept pint of Rudgate Chocolate Stout, the only cask on. The focal point was the 'craft cans fridge', that's what every other customer headed straight for, and there were a couple of lively groups in. My main gripe however is the staff. Woefully disinterested/distracted, I couldn't rest my elbows on the main bar for the sheer volume of empties stacked up. And when she did look up long enough to serve me, she was so quickly back to her laptop on a table in the corner, she'd forgetten to give me my pint and I had to shout her back! Table was sticky. It all felt a bit 'for the sake of it' rather than a concerted effort to offer something new and fresh to the Scabby beer scene.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCx1UQAEbiqi3ikv-H91mUkzXhMatofThvbAi5c5Ja6h6JcEh4fneqY269b8WsZVZHm EOq8ZgXbjqoPGovxP4mZ1ip4Du8eoJPHULAA4rISXNCCZsOaGI QCiz5RpqxXNOpQ8tmR1FofT8eGuSENJpmWOvo6lJTB6POhHEpa uDFXFMlawSm284V8NIbug=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCx1UQAEbiqi3ikv-H91mUkzXhMatofThvbAi5c5Ja6h6JcEh4fneqY269b8WsZVZHm EOq8ZgXbjqoPGovxP4mZ1ip4Du8eoJPHULAA4rISXNCCZsOaGI QCiz5RpqxXNOpQ8tmR1FofT8eGuSENJpmWOvo6lJTB6POhHEpa uDFXFMlawSm284V8NIbug=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgU94tb-aKnbOv2LXjnLScSKPCQP4oADhpaCDOzkI7D7pZ1e54O98jILF-1iFxx_ajcKHQEm_Hv13luYElfeA7WC7gVXa803jcfG2U9t63oR MIXXSA-c2YxEk4XkWeY7aYZAf_DQMZeruGI5SHTnGkbj6cynmN-eh8vuZ4qtqxGa2H_7pcTZl9Blvqh5A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgU94tb-aKnbOv2LXjnLScSKPCQP4oADhpaCDOzkI7D7pZ1e54O98jILF-1iFxx_ajcKHQEm_Hv13luYElfeA7WC7gVXa803jcfG2U9t63oR MIXXSA-c2YxEk4XkWeY7aYZAf_DQMZeruGI5SHTnGkbj6cynmN-eh8vuZ4qtqxGa2H_7pcTZl9Blvqh5A=s3328)
Blackpool Jane spotted a ghost in this photo. Can you?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoxjHtwEKGEw0Tsp7U_KqS_02kOkOljvXIZtvMm1Di5V ZmL9La78Xeg33GUAK5cnO64XJKf8aLXZhCHytUN_-LGO8y6ws9j-TXq6WX4k-G3l74SmftrVmUQvqex_3wg-IwutmxxtBYs6zrSVekOG6I0n5agNMyaiSjVm8QBu95--kyUydZOp4LRCRpgQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoxjHtwEKGEw0Tsp7U_KqS_02kOkOljvXIZtvMm1Di5V ZmL9La78Xeg33GUAK5cnO64XJKf8aLXZhCHytUN_-LGO8y6ws9j-TXq6WX4k-G3l74SmftrVmUQvqex_3wg-IwutmxxtBYs6zrSVekOG6I0n5agNMyaiSjVm8QBu95--kyUydZOp4LRCRpgQ=s4032)
Still, if it does make the 2023 (or any future) GBG you'll hear no complaint from me. I'll be sat there, one late Oct/early Nov, green highlighter pen in hand, cross ticking, I'll get to the Scarborough page, and probably say out loud "waheyyy, nice one Craft Bar. Si, you are a genius" as often is the way when pre-emptives come good.
Train home all went according to plan, and fast forward 36 hours and I was back on the road (well train) for my first southern BRAPA trip of 2022.
Keane Lewis Otter OUT! Colin the Cauliflower IN! Fresh snacks .... PACKED!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4oBYRpWTH2TqrFlrQXNgSAaR9dgGjzzC8HyEt8Y5iNd 3PwItVZ5zy9rhqKCTUKqkDVZI8hyGnsNwx-yqVBEvm6QGYpBOHzUkgKylkbTm0NmGjVYGOuFKPI8mHEhiGYgl hoo_ufa7jnBHSP361_rBRZVwh5nc8mjfaZOVK_E7tjLT1AMtNE oE-ND5uLA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4oBYRpWTH2TqrFlrQXNgSAaR9dgGjzzC8HyEt8Y5iNd 3PwItVZ5zy9rhqKCTUKqkDVZI8hyGnsNwx-yqVBEvm6QGYpBOHzUkgKylkbTm0NmGjVYGOuFKPI8mHEhiGYgl hoo_ufa7jnBHSP361_rBRZVwh5nc8mjfaZOVK_E7tjLT1AMtNE oE-ND5uLA=s3546)
Sausage & Cheese muffin in the foil, if you wondered
I'd heard we'd be expecting more engineering diversions around bloody Lincolnshire again, so imagine my surprise when we tootle into Kings Cross a few minutes after 9am.
Well, I wasn't due to meet today Hertfordshire friendly chauffeur guests until 11:42am, and with only 5 pubs on the agenda, was there an early opener in North London I could do now to make up the six?
A Wetherspoons in Stoke Newington you say? Ding dang do, that'll do! As they say in Bolton.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjulz_KpJPKvuPqril26qwEGNusgHKS3LDFuDSpr06b2x pYIaWDvjKRXgwkXZUjkZxnh4fQlRMYwsynC3wBlzqbccz3T-CiMiDsHEKh0_GZZ9izepoBhKCk41yvwrvSVp8d4JmavzvsFZ_v GN_N5Om4e4W5z9p2SflJoaQYv68O_Zr9JxPCJiGLfbXBAg=s32 0 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjulz_KpJPKvuPqril26qwEGNusgHKS3LDFuDSpr06b2x pYIaWDvjKRXgwkXZUjkZxnh4fQlRMYwsynC3wBlzqbccz3T-CiMiDsHEKh0_GZZ9izepoBhKCk41yvwrvSVp8d4JmavzvsFZ_v GN_N5Om4e4W5z9p2SflJoaQYv68O_Zr9JxPCJiGLfbXBAg=s38 55)
Very different from my only other BRAPA experience of Stoke N, a pub called the Jolly Butchers where posh twentysomethings drank red wine under low lights surrounded by purple velveteen curtains. Rochester Castle, Stoke Newington (2035 / 3598) was in fact, the polar opposite. Bright morning sunshine streaming in through glorious bay windows, a healthy gaggle of old codgers settled in with probably their 4th pints already, just shy of 10am. The barmaid greets me warmly, even asking about my day. Not sure she really needed to know the intricacies of mid afternoon closures in Wareside or lifts between Puckeridge and Standon, but I told her anyway. Seemed a long way to come for a pint of dark mild from Hull, but if I order it, we'd definitely beat Preston at home, right? Right? Besides, one of my Hull City chums Chris D hails from Stoke N. On Tuesday, he'd perch on my seat arm at Derby's Alexandra and speak to me at length about this pub. Back in the present, and I could only 'admire' the multiple fires and some pretty questionable artwork (elongated Daniel Defoe looked more like Zlatan Ibrahimovic to me, apparently they had classy artwork in the past but it all got sold, I think) , but on the whole, this pub just solidified in my mind that the classiest Wetherspoons are always to be found in the place they started, North London. Someone on my Twitter even told me this was the third 'Spoons to ever open, and the longest standing one still open.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfppw9hRhKnStlbLPEVPoaQHzgbq8EsWlv8JSTsyOELq njVZcsreixK5HkaWy8bp2A4J4LWmwAmm2aMJ65Z2umx6o2QdCo 6pH4bUn2J-_VZ88CLvoib_xFV2B7HzOMhT0X9qKHx1VbpD1LxVWfqI3cTPa1 lQ79yE3pka_cqs3vI4tsoHyvwkGfodMtGQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfppw9hRhKnStlbLPEVPoaQHzgbq8EsWlv8JSTsyOELq njVZcsreixK5HkaWy8bp2A4J4LWmwAmm2aMJ65Z2umx6o2QdCo 6pH4bUn2J-_VZ88CLvoib_xFV2B7HzOMhT0X9qKHx1VbpD1LxVWfqI3cTPa1 lQ79yE3pka_cqs3vI4tsoHyvwkGfodMtGQ=s4032)
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One more pub to tell you about today, as I dashed off to get my connection. I missed one train out of Stoke N to Seven Sisters by a cat's cock hair, but I wasn't too pushed for time as I made my way back to Finsbury Park, where BRAPA Pub Man of the Year 2021 instructed me to get myself to a place I'd never heard of called 'Watton at Stone'.
Bus replacements meant our regular Stansted line was out of action, so they'd kindly agreed to drop me back on the Hertford line. It had meant changing the initial pub agenda three times, but definitely worth it.
I arrived on time, and some weirdos got in my way as I photographed a Nigel Gresley blue plaque ....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkH0hDln7lwxeBU2BbZVy_SQ8uUA_OjmQBBopodVYToH vPeDIc0EGErVmIW-zmSOunFu86I9RtDb64hSw7tP8ZI5LF26CWk2jeTzyIcH115PHF y5XnF2HBIx1QuDud1NgMJvKBgtcnqudNRauj73ypJLtL1Z4Msa rnlBvB2qMTc04tAwyrbLCo8ga7Dg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkH0hDln7lwxeBU2BbZVy_SQ8uUA_OjmQBBopodVYToH vPeDIc0EGErVmIW-zmSOunFu86I9RtDb64hSw7tP8ZI5LF26CWk2jeTzyIcH115PHF y5XnF2HBIx1QuDud1NgMJvKBgtcnqudNRauj73ypJLtL1Z4Msa rnlBvB2qMTc04tAwyrbLCo8ga7Dg=s4032)
Before long, a smart red car pulls up and Simon D waves out of the window. Daddy Dewhurst is driving today, so as a homage to Jane Stuart when she met Daddy BRAPA, I greet him with a cheery "hi Daddy D!" Sure he loved that.
Unlike the Allen's Green, Bishop Stortford, Saffron Walden's and Thaxted's of this world, the Dewhurst's have absolutely no idea about today's pubs, which makes me feel better, cos I feel it'll be more interesting for them too.
After a few confusing country lanes, we arrive at today's second tick shortly before noon .....
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It's a bit of a slow, unpromising start to life at the Lordship Arms, Benington (2036 / 3599) as a few shadowy figures stare out at us with blank eyes, and when the main bloke unlocks the door, he doesn't exactly open the door, shout 'hallo BRAPA faithful!!', toot his bugle, and welcome us into the bosom of his bulging heart. The pub itself has virtually no sign, just looking like a house. I sort of like that, but on the other hand, I was starting to worry this was going to be a pub that hates customers and opens for the public under sufferance (and yes, they do exist). Luckily, I was wrong and so are you. Pub of the day material as it transpires. FIVE of the Six ales are from Yorkshire. One is from Small World, Shelley, West Yorks, which to nick an Eddie F joke from our Holmfirth night "Small World isn't it?" Anyway, it causes a chuckle in the ranks when I tell them I've travelled from York. Soon, main guy, who is actually lovely, is schooling me on Black Sheep-York Brewery-Yorkshire Heart politics. My brain can't cope with the information overload. The conversation is so random. 'York is very good at publicising itself', the lady (his Mum?) proclaims, for when she bought shoes from Stockport, twice, they came with a brochure of stuff to do in York. Then, quite unprovoked, she starts off on The Russians and Maltese assassinations. Crackers, the lot of 'em. The pub itself is a delight, vintage telephones prevail, a superb worn carpet. In fact, had we have visited it later in the day, we'd probably have appreciated it even more as this standard would not be maintained.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioCDxS_r63bFEGAX56hde3jON5cVO9S4Lkl6m2_xDUna gTuzVtN7U692Jzu_1T098Xw_8hrgwh9U848AwatWo2GgFM3WIG GX2rlj6sXnVqHpA9LzNuQbla8VhuqVXoE03BYY-aQq-AcObvVWRHHgikWK9xISLU5EZIrwYuzD98f7cpdk_3z9ajkY2O6 A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioCDxS_r63bFEGAX56hde3jON5cVO9S4Lkl6m2_xDUna gTuzVtN7U692Jzu_1T098Xw_8hrgwh9U848AwatWo2GgFM3WIG GX2rlj6sXnVqHpA9LzNuQbla8VhuqVXoE03BYY-aQq-AcObvVWRHHgikWK9xISLU5EZIrwYuzD98f7cpdk_3z9ajkY2O6 A=s4032)
I'm on the Quaffer, which used to be Guzzler. Even I didn't know that. Top bloke, top pub
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDcF7qAb5JIsQSgD0ZRmkN7Adf8L7ELbzvtzvq3qlR1A J3A3AUSr85j5AaGznQnNbWblKcGtsQgSK6GeWn1v3my6K6GpsX ClDYGjA8jsV2tBXhqPV_hXfOuE6w6zvkbG1dcKmmgiQUb3kXA7 vUtVu8qIiemySs7SGuFvYgfBffR1y32mvGR6l_4JPtpQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDcF7qAb5JIsQSgD0ZRmkN7Adf8L7ELbzvtzvq3qlR1A J3A3AUSr85j5AaGznQnNbWblKcGtsQgSK6GeWn1v3my6K6GpsX ClDYGjA8jsV2tBXhqPV_hXfOuE6w6zvkbG1dcKmmgiQUb3kXA7 vUtVu8qIiemySs7SGuFvYgfBffR1y32mvGR6l_4JPtpQ=s4032 )
The Dewhurst's are back, and Col is delighted to see his old mates
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhC-IO8D9cbHgTlt2yoOjrOaF0pSOqgDSiTUsmobGhKXD6Rc1K13ty MrhbEulQNs04DZEcxlPcVVSjxKBYL8XigmZno-oG2Wd1efGwLbTV1gZUsloIgt-iVdRoPGAuCp499l9c1Sa-IIXQlNtrHj0kundkTggso8ZUwCYExyp0g5HwoZqGtPNkMX1WgC A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhC-IO8D9cbHgTlt2yoOjrOaF0pSOqgDSiTUsmobGhKXD6Rc1K13ty MrhbEulQNs04DZEcxlPcVVSjxKBYL8XigmZno-oG2Wd1efGwLbTV1gZUsloIgt-iVdRoPGAuCp499l9c1Sa-IIXQlNtrHj0kundkTggso8ZUwCYExyp0g5HwoZqGtPNkMX1WgC A=s4032)
That's some proper pub carpetage
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJkxoiDABnIAXHsJs3Qwhp9mINGvheANjEREPQMycNsK KZLZ0NOG3QOZN9yMJP4sJA_xkyABbSyQVrYC8Zf3tGAhANzAx5 8kU_t-6WpYx81YTCXl0Ty2MxjTJ-nP1AAgUgsATkMcd0i2Gv1apOnJijbQCQt6DXbB40bX7zEMPLvs gd1-WhpOjVVe4o5A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJkxoiDABnIAXHsJs3Qwhp9mINGvheANjEREPQMycNsK KZLZ0NOG3QOZN9yMJP4sJA_xkyABbSyQVrYC8Zf3tGAhANzAx5 8kU_t-6WpYx81YTCXl0Ty2MxjTJ-nP1AAgUgsATkMcd0i2Gv1apOnJijbQCQt6DXbB40bX7zEMPLvs gd1-WhpOjVVe4o5A=s4032)
Phones galore
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUKJb1rn0y6onaoufLMDVjayfibQmV8EefsNLcT4HFVl qO5UTHZlHOSDjMkYmW8Yd2PcFsnHsDPndgeoJ6gq95sMrODcD6 wCkWPjhhBjHsK1Lix7EdxBw_24glstGGQ-QTH9x1elZEBuETWgzOzqbqZ0l0RhUmUX1PKkqEbb83aJKj1q_t mORijU0MfQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUKJb1rn0y6onaoufLMDVjayfibQmV8EefsNLcT4HFVl qO5UTHZlHOSDjMkYmW8Yd2PcFsnHsDPndgeoJ6gq95sMrODcD6 wCkWPjhhBjHsK1Lix7EdxBw_24glstGGQ-QTH9x1elZEBuETWgzOzqbqZ0l0RhUmUX1PKkqEbb83aJKj1q_t mORijU0MfQ=s4032)
My phone is so #WokeSi2022, it wouldn't focus on the sexist pump clips
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdaaW1vWO-tBjMs9B0UJIr_4Z7zbZW8ECuPKKm1bgJNQoxcFDOAQbxe-IwIWcA6D3xMLQu-ucKSfXpnLgflCHdNUK6uSe466uNmoSXDUaGMD70N0N2DxAxt_W _kNADLKsYiGbwctDkglTF3zRFJzXF4iqgV6ess_QiqTceaOvby oLdFm-mHQkqYpJqzg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdaaW1vWO-tBjMs9B0UJIr_4Z7zbZW8ECuPKKm1bgJNQoxcFDOAQbxe-IwIWcA6D3xMLQu-ucKSfXpnLgflCHdNUK6uSe466uNmoSXDUaGMD70N0N2DxAxt_W _kNADLKsYiGbwctDkglTF3zRFJzXF4iqgV6ess_QiqTceaOvby oLdFm-mHQkqYpJqzg=s4032)
Now that's what I call a menu
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbzks7w3LsN8kRZVKqL7cOEC1r7o0LzCDDJ1ixOX-l2GB56zT1_oaVQmsKCCjcDPDvLxcrBA8b5jRc-Fe4Xe9bxkaAJK8N3UNJEj0txt_rb8xCmr_2D8d3szVrTUMhrfX 3TydmxQpuv1SfWDWkHfYrr5Ek2ULOo4BDNSWmp4cYkD4hQceBf dz_gzb2cA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbzks7w3LsN8kRZVKqL7cOEC1r7o0LzCDDJ1ixOX-l2GB56zT1_oaVQmsKCCjcDPDvLxcrBA8b5jRc-Fe4Xe9bxkaAJK8N3UNJEj0txt_rb8xCmr_2D8d3szVrTUMhrfX 3TydmxQpuv1SfWDWkHfYrr5Ek2ULOo4BDNSWmp4cYkD4hQceBf dz_gzb2cA=s4032)
Look at the pub's little face
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZDXRV1Uuv3PsauYPVdeKJOP2BWx5nJHkMr0kCqwj8ik hUUJpBDIBVWIp8oAcWJb6N0w28DdbhA2iOxZJoMUYjTNzJRGdI iOmXSCgTkx29OXu3UEfE9avjNl9Crh_viy3cECbsy8GZbp6QIH MGWSDS3sMhph4X_Ah6vwj3P2mwYHLRvMKo7mhhJ8Ia-A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZDXRV1Uuv3PsauYPVdeKJOP2BWx5nJHkMr0kCqwj8ik hUUJpBDIBVWIp8oAcWJb6N0w28DdbhA2iOxZJoMUYjTNzJRGdI iOmXSCgTkx29OXu3UEfE9avjNl9Crh_viy3cECbsy8GZbp6QIH MGWSDS3sMhph4X_Ah6vwj3P2mwYHLRvMKo7mhhJ8Ia-A=s4032)
Brewers Gold + 5 Yorkshire ales
Well, there ya go! I'll tell you about my other 4 ticks, my 'emotional' Parcel Yard return, train chaos sparking a run of bad luck, and a bit from Derby, on Sunday.
See ya then, Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/02/brapa-is-in-welfare-state-scarborough.html)
Welcome back. And if you joined us for the previous episode, you'll know that I was on a long bumpy bus ride back to Scarborough on a dark wintry evening, having ticked off four of the best/worst in Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay.
A drunk Mum has to helped off the bus by her apologetic daughter somewhere close to Cloughton. A couple of times, drunk Mum had tried to get my attention. I ignored her. "Oi, you think you are better than me, is that it?" she eventually slurred. The answer of course, was 'yes, I very much am'.
Being 6:40pm, my final GBG tick of the night (a club) was not open yet, and you can't say that very often. So I let the bus go right through to the railway station, so I could have a widdle ('in' not 'on', I'd like to clarify for those of you who still haven't forgiven me for Newark. I lost more followers than Kurt Zouma that day).
I made my way through the Scabby mean streets until the club came into view. Light on, door open, someone at home. 6:55pm. Now, if this was 11:55am, I'd wait until 12:01pm in a bid to be deferential, but at this time of day 'sod it, what kinda place opens 7pm anyway?' was more my attitude.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrdA-2X25eQonmlGKucjFsUZwhXsEVJutoE2ij4UuKBPoGGXcr4zQpJ szcl4clrP0EE4u9824TPLK8p18z2XiGpivayQKDRV_7zl58m3_ QEODUzdS-v8LIKOvNYhWvzzb6bgpwXZfKbCH34K-MmrevGosqm4fnuwWNVTGCCQph8Lh6P_NxWWdBRPRR5w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrdA-2X25eQonmlGKucjFsUZwhXsEVJutoE2ij4UuKBPoGGXcr4zQpJ szcl4clrP0EE4u9824TPLK8p18z2XiGpivayQKDRV_7zl58m3_ QEODUzdS-v8LIKOvNYhWvzzb6bgpwXZfKbCH34K-MmrevGosqm4fnuwWNVTGCCQph8Lh6P_NxWWdBRPRR5w=s3781)
Using up the Twitter character count all on its own, Scarborough Borough Council Welfare Club, Scarborough (2034 / 3597) even made me widen Column A on the BRAPA spreadsheet being the longest named GBG entry since I recorded Upware, Cambs using the correct full name 'Five Miles from Absolutely Fucking Anywhere Inn'. I crept in rather tentatively, an old dear sat alone on a pub bench, presiding over an empty Quality Street tin filled with raffle tickets. "Are you open yet?" I enquire hesitantly. "Hmmm, not really" she replies. "Oh. I'm just after a pint .... I AM a CAMRA member" I explain, wondering if that'll make a jot of difference. "Oh of course, that's absolutely fine!" she says, effortlessly easing herself up into the space behind the bar in one fluid motion. Impressive. My ale is good and fresh, though slightly too fizzy to be a great pint. She soon sits near me again, explaining her initial reluctance was due to thinking I was 'one of them snooker players', indicating a glass window where snooker tables are indeed housed. Where exactly did she think I was concealing my cue? She talks to me on her love of Whitby's Little Angel, and her York relatives, before a few chaps come in, most carrying unconcealed snooker cues. "No one knows who is playing who tonight, that's the problem" someone complains. They all agree it is Dicko's fault. Poor Dicko. A bloke called Simon with the voice of Keith Lemon chats about a bloke called Keith with a slow puncture. It is all very confusing. I'm far too afraid to try and locate the Gents, apparently behind the glass window down with the snooker tables, which has now begun in earnest. I thank the stewardess (if that's what female club owners are called) and take my leave. Good place.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdl-NoLHJV8geNSuTXQgLlqiNgaT9KTLLxP-0sEp8ZciOYswYv4y7eKpCR_vHxrAWVv2lRUGg6EANYirqVH3lJ eo-6BAbEDfC1z8GPmpVwnwFGyVH80eqh4BVPiOZ71t4Iz1pkyLzkL 0Tl2v9nhgxl4OqWKdcmW-S3bLrzgwkBIzyjNHjAKBGwi9DB6w=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdl-NoLHJV8geNSuTXQgLlqiNgaT9KTLLxP-0sEp8ZciOYswYv4y7eKpCR_vHxrAWVv2lRUGg6EANYirqVH3lJ eo-6BAbEDfC1z8GPmpVwnwFGyVH80eqh4BVPiOZ71t4Iz1pkyLzkL 0Tl2v9nhgxl4OqWKdcmW-S3bLrzgwkBIzyjNHjAKBGwi9DB6w=s4032)
Might need a top up on my Azacca, but I'm not asking!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFUraLvZ5grgkIrMlNMXj2-fIgprtj8d0-hg2xE19egr50qOhbsFw_b08M7sAP1epXRXsXtH5paPzkc09x-SkfmIkWsbfdMdxMr1hElAfdDnmS4C7fUaR6CACoAOuXnWWCwp0 dpIvL8O0R2gb79XP05f1F1GEL4bdfvDktjevmIqypN_b252fBI 4nMTw=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFUraLvZ5grgkIrMlNMXj2-fIgprtj8d0-hg2xE19egr50qOhbsFw_b08M7sAP1epXRXsXtH5paPzkc09x-SkfmIkWsbfdMdxMr1hElAfdDnmS4C7fUaR6CACoAOuXnWWCwp0 dpIvL8O0R2gb79XP05f1F1GEL4bdfvDktjevmIqypN_b252fBI 4nMTw=s4032)
View to a snooker room
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNN2OwqvH8Z2M2By8-72bmKd-XQm6vbBihKIkYZEQ8yCfxifb6fgcAArxYAnrl0hw_Gb3mlJHoO Q8QxhaUSw9nSQ0M2iGvxmHyzbAIBzexpCyID6eY2BuaVvi3EKo XZK16EFkRqOqCPB003pW0MoOkB1q5YlxXSKz59_0_fBFwrBI1K sQQLpFkU9QUWA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNN2OwqvH8Z2M2By8-72bmKd-XQm6vbBihKIkYZEQ8yCfxifb6fgcAArxYAnrl0hw_Gb3mlJHoO Q8QxhaUSw9nSQ0M2iGvxmHyzbAIBzexpCyID6eY2BuaVvi3EKo XZK16EFkRqOqCPB003pW0MoOkB1q5YlxXSKz59_0_fBFwrBI1K sQQLpFkU9QUWA=s4032)
Keano gets a taste for the ale
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHXUhKDRIG4gGJXC458wqs8ZloQn7nNG0U0gUgnzWvpc gvo1kElwQRsiYDXU0SRUJ6iCCVwizkVq4aYNBb04n1iWhFrSTl IiRZZCekeyewbq4pR6p9OqeFnkoTmmjkxg8QSX0U9WaouZRknI HCyj-gqu6wVajr3qZ3Z6qmUfplk-nuWAHKxCif2TlI5g=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHXUhKDRIG4gGJXC458wqs8ZloQn7nNG0U0gUgnzWvpc gvo1kElwQRsiYDXU0SRUJ6iCCVwizkVq4aYNBb04n1iWhFrSTl IiRZZCekeyewbq4pR6p9OqeFnkoTmmjkxg8QSX0U9WaouZRknI HCyj-gqu6wVajr3qZ3Z6qmUfplk-nuWAHKxCif2TlI5g=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWmNjSmaMzLtLqvfAN8gj0mNRblyzh6IFgAMRVwXQ7w3 hyaYzT0GAjoaW88w8EujeYfkqV8z4gLy0S_6Tg5WvxKa6_3wak bhhjqe8vWHDjKNvy1izT-eNVDReJ5TH7s1T42IMBgH6Wy-o8UujZ6iZ6KxBmm_TiVyPpJfuunHt3SuQ3jW6DI8UonS6LvA=s 320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWmNjSmaMzLtLqvfAN8gj0mNRblyzh6IFgAMRVwXQ7w3 hyaYzT0GAjoaW88w8EujeYfkqV8z4gLy0S_6Tg5WvxKa6_3wak bhhjqe8vWHDjKNvy1izT-eNVDReJ5TH7s1T42IMBgH6Wy-o8UujZ6iZ6KxBmm_TiVyPpJfuunHt3SuQ3jW6DI8UonS6LvA=s 4032)
Blind Sooty - always the sign of a classic (RetiredMartin taught me that)
The old lad I was talking to mostly mentioned a Scarborough pre-emptive on the way back to the station, and it triggered a memory of the same place being mentioned by someone in Whitby's Waiting Room. With about 35 minutes until the York train, perfect timing, it had to be done.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP7LwS9A0lEvigbzzXXzmiDjIZ8khbJ-abNqYzbtpcLwa8PFlh906w3o6dA4F09GYjEJqQDW7rs8FylWJK Vx7E3M3pM5rZU1FncH7Glr7mdzQOdZB8LcN61TSdjt-LyXK9enQzfpfW3KVO0nYpSf_xnX6NyEVgWw3kBukGQspOXqJQP gvhTsQ4U0GnHQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP7LwS9A0lEvigbzzXXzmiDjIZ8khbJ-abNqYzbtpcLwa8PFlh906w3o6dA4F09GYjEJqQDW7rs8FylWJK Vx7E3M3pM5rZU1FncH7Glr7mdzQOdZB8LcN61TSdjt-LyXK9enQzfpfW3KVO0nYpSf_xnX6NyEVgWw3kBukGQspOXqJQP gvhTsQ4U0GnHQ=s3101)
Historically, I don't have a lot of luck with Scarborough pre-emptives, by which I mean Firk Inn has never made it into the GBG yet. Having said that, it did only have Doom Bar on, and a Seadogs fan told me he could kill me in a few seconds by just pressing my neck in a certain place. And now I've visited Craft Bar, Scarborough I'm even less convinced of its GBG potential, despite a nicely kept pint of Rudgate Chocolate Stout, the only cask on. The focal point was the 'craft cans fridge', that's what every other customer headed straight for, and there were a couple of lively groups in. My main gripe however is the staff. Woefully disinterested/distracted, I couldn't rest my elbows on the main bar for the sheer volume of empties stacked up. And when she did look up long enough to serve me, she was so quickly back to her laptop on a table in the corner, she'd forgetten to give me my pint and I had to shout her back! Table was sticky. It all felt a bit 'for the sake of it' rather than a concerted effort to offer something new and fresh to the Scabby beer scene.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCx1UQAEbiqi3ikv-H91mUkzXhMatofThvbAi5c5Ja6h6JcEh4fneqY269b8WsZVZHm EOq8ZgXbjqoPGovxP4mZ1ip4Du8eoJPHULAA4rISXNCCZsOaGI QCiz5RpqxXNOpQ8tmR1FofT8eGuSENJpmWOvo6lJTB6POhHEpa uDFXFMlawSm284V8NIbug=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCx1UQAEbiqi3ikv-H91mUkzXhMatofThvbAi5c5Ja6h6JcEh4fneqY269b8WsZVZHm EOq8ZgXbjqoPGovxP4mZ1ip4Du8eoJPHULAA4rISXNCCZsOaGI QCiz5RpqxXNOpQ8tmR1FofT8eGuSENJpmWOvo6lJTB6POhHEpa uDFXFMlawSm284V8NIbug=s4032)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgU94tb-aKnbOv2LXjnLScSKPCQP4oADhpaCDOzkI7D7pZ1e54O98jILF-1iFxx_ajcKHQEm_Hv13luYElfeA7WC7gVXa803jcfG2U9t63oR MIXXSA-c2YxEk4XkWeY7aYZAf_DQMZeruGI5SHTnGkbj6cynmN-eh8vuZ4qtqxGa2H_7pcTZl9Blvqh5A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgU94tb-aKnbOv2LXjnLScSKPCQP4oADhpaCDOzkI7D7pZ1e54O98jILF-1iFxx_ajcKHQEm_Hv13luYElfeA7WC7gVXa803jcfG2U9t63oR MIXXSA-c2YxEk4XkWeY7aYZAf_DQMZeruGI5SHTnGkbj6cynmN-eh8vuZ4qtqxGa2H_7pcTZl9Blvqh5A=s3328)
Blackpool Jane spotted a ghost in this photo. Can you?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoxjHtwEKGEw0Tsp7U_KqS_02kOkOljvXIZtvMm1Di5V ZmL9La78Xeg33GUAK5cnO64XJKf8aLXZhCHytUN_-LGO8y6ws9j-TXq6WX4k-G3l74SmftrVmUQvqex_3wg-IwutmxxtBYs6zrSVekOG6I0n5agNMyaiSjVm8QBu95--kyUydZOp4LRCRpgQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoxjHtwEKGEw0Tsp7U_KqS_02kOkOljvXIZtvMm1Di5V ZmL9La78Xeg33GUAK5cnO64XJKf8aLXZhCHytUN_-LGO8y6ws9j-TXq6WX4k-G3l74SmftrVmUQvqex_3wg-IwutmxxtBYs6zrSVekOG6I0n5agNMyaiSjVm8QBu95--kyUydZOp4LRCRpgQ=s4032)
Still, if it does make the 2023 (or any future) GBG you'll hear no complaint from me. I'll be sat there, one late Oct/early Nov, green highlighter pen in hand, cross ticking, I'll get to the Scarborough page, and probably say out loud "waheyyy, nice one Craft Bar. Si, you are a genius" as often is the way when pre-emptives come good.
Train home all went according to plan, and fast forward 36 hours and I was back on the road (well train) for my first southern BRAPA trip of 2022.
Keane Lewis Otter OUT! Colin the Cauliflower IN! Fresh snacks .... PACKED!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4oBYRpWTH2TqrFlrQXNgSAaR9dgGjzzC8HyEt8Y5iNd 3PwItVZ5zy9rhqKCTUKqkDVZI8hyGnsNwx-yqVBEvm6QGYpBOHzUkgKylkbTm0NmGjVYGOuFKPI8mHEhiGYgl hoo_ufa7jnBHSP361_rBRZVwh5nc8mjfaZOVK_E7tjLT1AMtNE oE-ND5uLA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4oBYRpWTH2TqrFlrQXNgSAaR9dgGjzzC8HyEt8Y5iNd 3PwItVZ5zy9rhqKCTUKqkDVZI8hyGnsNwx-yqVBEvm6QGYpBOHzUkgKylkbTm0NmGjVYGOuFKPI8mHEhiGYgl hoo_ufa7jnBHSP361_rBRZVwh5nc8mjfaZOVK_E7tjLT1AMtNE oE-ND5uLA=s3546)
Sausage & Cheese muffin in the foil, if you wondered
I'd heard we'd be expecting more engineering diversions around bloody Lincolnshire again, so imagine my surprise when we tootle into Kings Cross a few minutes after 9am.
Well, I wasn't due to meet today Hertfordshire friendly chauffeur guests until 11:42am, and with only 5 pubs on the agenda, was there an early opener in North London I could do now to make up the six?
A Wetherspoons in Stoke Newington you say? Ding dang do, that'll do! As they say in Bolton.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjulz_KpJPKvuPqril26qwEGNusgHKS3LDFuDSpr06b2x pYIaWDvjKRXgwkXZUjkZxnh4fQlRMYwsynC3wBlzqbccz3T-CiMiDsHEKh0_GZZ9izepoBhKCk41yvwrvSVp8d4JmavzvsFZ_v GN_N5Om4e4W5z9p2SflJoaQYv68O_Zr9JxPCJiGLfbXBAg=s32 0 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjulz_KpJPKvuPqril26qwEGNusgHKS3LDFuDSpr06b2x pYIaWDvjKRXgwkXZUjkZxnh4fQlRMYwsynC3wBlzqbccz3T-CiMiDsHEKh0_GZZ9izepoBhKCk41yvwrvSVp8d4JmavzvsFZ_v GN_N5Om4e4W5z9p2SflJoaQYv68O_Zr9JxPCJiGLfbXBAg=s38 55)
Very different from my only other BRAPA experience of Stoke N, a pub called the Jolly Butchers where posh twentysomethings drank red wine under low lights surrounded by purple velveteen curtains. Rochester Castle, Stoke Newington (2035 / 3598) was in fact, the polar opposite. Bright morning sunshine streaming in through glorious bay windows, a healthy gaggle of old codgers settled in with probably their 4th pints already, just shy of 10am. The barmaid greets me warmly, even asking about my day. Not sure she really needed to know the intricacies of mid afternoon closures in Wareside or lifts between Puckeridge and Standon, but I told her anyway. Seemed a long way to come for a pint of dark mild from Hull, but if I order it, we'd definitely beat Preston at home, right? Right? Besides, one of my Hull City chums Chris D hails from Stoke N. On Tuesday, he'd perch on my seat arm at Derby's Alexandra and speak to me at length about this pub. Back in the present, and I could only 'admire' the multiple fires and some pretty questionable artwork (elongated Daniel Defoe looked more like Zlatan Ibrahimovic to me, apparently they had classy artwork in the past but it all got sold, I think) , but on the whole, this pub just solidified in my mind that the classiest Wetherspoons are always to be found in the place they started, North London. Someone on my Twitter even told me this was the third 'Spoons to ever open, and the longest standing one still open.
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https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEia-Iy7jdGJEUpP3FrcVDMRXeA9ihBR7LH-40Ohpd6a7zQ4rjmtNZD9qFE_x1OczxBaCd9-YmOZNUlveNz4gFfKdnzJHdAI59dzHrTNVSbY03xHqEO8thBh59 zKIb68-y64reN5l7yYZcnCRNCAg3iIfFGRoE6JyFwlaWEfS2QWFYqE5h7 BrcDdWU1gQA=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEia-Iy7jdGJEUpP3FrcVDMRXeA9ihBR7LH-40Ohpd6a7zQ4rjmtNZD9qFE_x1OczxBaCd9-YmOZNUlveNz4gFfKdnzJHdAI59dzHrTNVSbY03xHqEO8thBh59 zKIb68-y64reN5l7yYZcnCRNCAg3iIfFGRoE6JyFwlaWEfS2QWFYqE5h7 BrcDdWU1gQA=s4032)
One more pub to tell you about today, as I dashed off to get my connection. I missed one train out of Stoke N to Seven Sisters by a cat's cock hair, but I wasn't too pushed for time as I made my way back to Finsbury Park, where BRAPA Pub Man of the Year 2021 instructed me to get myself to a place I'd never heard of called 'Watton at Stone'.
Bus replacements meant our regular Stansted line was out of action, so they'd kindly agreed to drop me back on the Hertford line. It had meant changing the initial pub agenda three times, but definitely worth it.
I arrived on time, and some weirdos got in my way as I photographed a Nigel Gresley blue plaque ....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkH0hDln7lwxeBU2BbZVy_SQ8uUA_OjmQBBopodVYToH vPeDIc0EGErVmIW-zmSOunFu86I9RtDb64hSw7tP8ZI5LF26CWk2jeTzyIcH115PHF y5XnF2HBIx1QuDud1NgMJvKBgtcnqudNRauj73ypJLtL1Z4Msa rnlBvB2qMTc04tAwyrbLCo8ga7Dg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkH0hDln7lwxeBU2BbZVy_SQ8uUA_OjmQBBopodVYToH vPeDIc0EGErVmIW-zmSOunFu86I9RtDb64hSw7tP8ZI5LF26CWk2jeTzyIcH115PHF y5XnF2HBIx1QuDud1NgMJvKBgtcnqudNRauj73ypJLtL1Z4Msa rnlBvB2qMTc04tAwyrbLCo8ga7Dg=s4032)
Before long, a smart red car pulls up and Simon D waves out of the window. Daddy Dewhurst is driving today, so as a homage to Jane Stuart when she met Daddy BRAPA, I greet him with a cheery "hi Daddy D!" Sure he loved that.
Unlike the Allen's Green, Bishop Stortford, Saffron Walden's and Thaxted's of this world, the Dewhurst's have absolutely no idea about today's pubs, which makes me feel better, cos I feel it'll be more interesting for them too.
After a few confusing country lanes, we arrive at today's second tick shortly before noon .....
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKXdNy_lX9surqXinURpQ-_gGgtSIUKWd3q7GoXVWyCuGIPZTS3__MiWpyEFReA_O7UxLHyC TILL2ibWlNsu1tR1El_U321dsvRqgstgwOwTp7QQn1VeRYJyGV f9Pic-aGeryyhQFtFD6UbI3ZvM0jXCiKJu4hjBW59jhW4gr027hCXa0N PybQU9IPdQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKXdNy_lX9surqXinURpQ-_gGgtSIUKWd3q7GoXVWyCuGIPZTS3__MiWpyEFReA_O7UxLHyC TILL2ibWlNsu1tR1El_U321dsvRqgstgwOwTp7QQn1VeRYJyGV f9Pic-aGeryyhQFtFD6UbI3ZvM0jXCiKJu4hjBW59jhW4gr027hCXa0N PybQU9IPdQ=s3581)
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It's a bit of a slow, unpromising start to life at the Lordship Arms, Benington (2036 / 3599) as a few shadowy figures stare out at us with blank eyes, and when the main bloke unlocks the door, he doesn't exactly open the door, shout 'hallo BRAPA faithful!!', toot his bugle, and welcome us into the bosom of his bulging heart. The pub itself has virtually no sign, just looking like a house. I sort of like that, but on the other hand, I was starting to worry this was going to be a pub that hates customers and opens for the public under sufferance (and yes, they do exist). Luckily, I was wrong and so are you. Pub of the day material as it transpires. FIVE of the Six ales are from Yorkshire. One is from Small World, Shelley, West Yorks, which to nick an Eddie F joke from our Holmfirth night "Small World isn't it?" Anyway, it causes a chuckle in the ranks when I tell them I've travelled from York. Soon, main guy, who is actually lovely, is schooling me on Black Sheep-York Brewery-Yorkshire Heart politics. My brain can't cope with the information overload. The conversation is so random. 'York is very good at publicising itself', the lady (his Mum?) proclaims, for when she bought shoes from Stockport, twice, they came with a brochure of stuff to do in York. Then, quite unprovoked, she starts off on The Russians and Maltese assassinations. Crackers, the lot of 'em. The pub itself is a delight, vintage telephones prevail, a superb worn carpet. In fact, had we have visited it later in the day, we'd probably have appreciated it even more as this standard would not be maintained.
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I'm on the Quaffer, which used to be Guzzler. Even I didn't know that. Top bloke, top pub
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDcF7qAb5JIsQSgD0ZRmkN7Adf8L7ELbzvtzvq3qlR1A J3A3AUSr85j5AaGznQnNbWblKcGtsQgSK6GeWn1v3my6K6GpsX ClDYGjA8jsV2tBXhqPV_hXfOuE6w6zvkbG1dcKmmgiQUb3kXA7 vUtVu8qIiemySs7SGuFvYgfBffR1y32mvGR6l_4JPtpQ=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDcF7qAb5JIsQSgD0ZRmkN7Adf8L7ELbzvtzvq3qlR1A J3A3AUSr85j5AaGznQnNbWblKcGtsQgSK6GeWn1v3my6K6GpsX ClDYGjA8jsV2tBXhqPV_hXfOuE6w6zvkbG1dcKmmgiQUb3kXA7 vUtVu8qIiemySs7SGuFvYgfBffR1y32mvGR6l_4JPtpQ=s4032 )
The Dewhurst's are back, and Col is delighted to see his old mates
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhC-IO8D9cbHgTlt2yoOjrOaF0pSOqgDSiTUsmobGhKXD6Rc1K13ty MrhbEulQNs04DZEcxlPcVVSjxKBYL8XigmZno-oG2Wd1efGwLbTV1gZUsloIgt-iVdRoPGAuCp499l9c1Sa-IIXQlNtrHj0kundkTggso8ZUwCYExyp0g5HwoZqGtPNkMX1WgC A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhC-IO8D9cbHgTlt2yoOjrOaF0pSOqgDSiTUsmobGhKXD6Rc1K13ty MrhbEulQNs04DZEcxlPcVVSjxKBYL8XigmZno-oG2Wd1efGwLbTV1gZUsloIgt-iVdRoPGAuCp499l9c1Sa-IIXQlNtrHj0kundkTggso8ZUwCYExyp0g5HwoZqGtPNkMX1WgC A=s4032)
That's some proper pub carpetage
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJkxoiDABnIAXHsJs3Qwhp9mINGvheANjEREPQMycNsK KZLZ0NOG3QOZN9yMJP4sJA_xkyABbSyQVrYC8Zf3tGAhANzAx5 8kU_t-6WpYx81YTCXl0Ty2MxjTJ-nP1AAgUgsATkMcd0i2Gv1apOnJijbQCQt6DXbB40bX7zEMPLvs gd1-WhpOjVVe4o5A=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJkxoiDABnIAXHsJs3Qwhp9mINGvheANjEREPQMycNsK KZLZ0NOG3QOZN9yMJP4sJA_xkyABbSyQVrYC8Zf3tGAhANzAx5 8kU_t-6WpYx81YTCXl0Ty2MxjTJ-nP1AAgUgsATkMcd0i2Gv1apOnJijbQCQt6DXbB40bX7zEMPLvs gd1-WhpOjVVe4o5A=s4032)
Phones galore
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My phone is so #WokeSi2022, it wouldn't focus on the sexist pump clips
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdaaW1vWO-tBjMs9B0UJIr_4Z7zbZW8ECuPKKm1bgJNQoxcFDOAQbxe-IwIWcA6D3xMLQu-ucKSfXpnLgflCHdNUK6uSe466uNmoSXDUaGMD70N0N2DxAxt_W _kNADLKsYiGbwctDkglTF3zRFJzXF4iqgV6ess_QiqTceaOvby oLdFm-mHQkqYpJqzg=s320 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdaaW1vWO-tBjMs9B0UJIr_4Z7zbZW8ECuPKKm1bgJNQoxcFDOAQbxe-IwIWcA6D3xMLQu-ucKSfXpnLgflCHdNUK6uSe466uNmoSXDUaGMD70N0N2DxAxt_W _kNADLKsYiGbwctDkglTF3zRFJzXF4iqgV6ess_QiqTceaOvby oLdFm-mHQkqYpJqzg=s4032)
Now that's what I call a menu
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Look at the pub's little face
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Brewers Gold + 5 Yorkshire ales
Well, there ya go! I'll tell you about my other 4 ticks, my 'emotional' Parcel Yard return, train chaos sparking a run of bad luck, and a bit from Derby, on Sunday.
See ya then, Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/02/brapa-is-in-welfare-state-scarborough.html)