Blog Tracker
31-08-2022, 19:21
Visit The BRAPA site (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/08/brapa-month-end-review-august-2022.html)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3PHGlnK1WqEwF-PjKPCkqEqGhXgP5yk-BE4F9hGl3kmw2n0hWsQWk_PylB9V8w9ORv-RD_XMT04juUAjHii0_tA4jyHmeqJUdfhSavlJ9Y6kZlF0QCML3 l3Ntt4bPqh5a_YoeebT0Mwc-PmH3iUMZbbD9TCfQz0TWvGPYbHuGh397NhBbZlJNCV9VQ/s320/IMG_1287.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3PHGlnK1WqEwF-PjKPCkqEqGhXgP5yk-BE4F9hGl3kmw2n0hWsQWk_PylB9V8w9ORv-RD_XMT04juUAjHii0_tA4jyHmeqJUdfhSavlJ9Y6kZlF0QCML3 l3Ntt4bPqh5a_YoeebT0Mwc-PmH3iUMZbbD9TCfQz0TWvGPYbHuGh397NhBbZlJNCV9VQ/s3088/IMG_1287.HEIC)
Greetings. Six or seven weeks away from the 2023, we are approaching that time of year when it is hard to do your ticking without thoughts turning to what might be in the next edition, and whether what you are doing now is actually worth it!
A shameful 13 pubs from 1st - 26th August put me under pressure this month. I'm blaming punk festival, train strikes and work making me work a couple of (not very) #ThirstyThursdays.
In fact, scrap that. Let me spin it another way.
'RetiredMartin is getting so close to the finishing line as his recent Scottish highland blogs testify, I decided it'd be disrespectful to tick with any real gusto so decided to sit back, relax, give him his moment in the sun'.
There we go, that sounded convincing didn't it?
The Science Bit
A fantastic 20 pub Bank Holiday weekend tick-a-thon down in Kent and SE London saved me from total embarrassment.
I ended on 33 pubs, my lowest 2022 monthly tally to date, but with 7 promising pre-emptives added in (most of which were in Blackpool), it wasn't all that bad. If current projections remain on course, Blackpool will have more micropubs than the whole of Kent by the year 2090 - and that is a BRAPA fact.
I'm 52.4% of the way through the GBG, I've gained 332 pubs since the 2022 Guide came out (a record by 68 already) and I've visited 3920 pubs that have been in ANY Good Beer Guide.
My top 20 most visited counties are:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4aOLJm9d3ckCOPrhIzMcDxfSN33rT_2ZIYC1Z_BMuTg SKYD7R1u5J9DcRb7m5KW5Ugbn1slGC3SxTSEAKjUkbrw0KYlzy AOIY24P0ODEUfXKZfNZ9Jmpj5XnLZFksl2lObVBmIT7A_o5ck_ 6Weuuw7QTCtIjvQRG2u83pc0gVaIKyL-rfyrVWBNNdMw=w640-h296 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4aOLJm9d3ckCOPrhIzMcDxfSN33rT_2ZIYC1Z_BMuTg SKYD7R1u5J9DcRb7m5KW5Ugbn1slGC3SxTSEAKjUkbrw0KYlzy AOIY24P0ODEUfXKZfNZ9Jmpj5XnLZFksl2lObVBmIT7A_o5ck_ 6Weuuw7QTCtIjvQRG2u83pc0gVaIKyL-rfyrVWBNNdMw)
The far right column shows ticks done in the 2022 Guide.Overall, it has been a brilliant ticking year so I'm too sad about an average August.
Cover Update
'On a thread, on a thread, it is hanging on a thread!'
Which pub will it finally fall off in? Or can it hang on until mid-late October? And if it doesn't, do I put a rubber band around it? Or do I laminate the 'new' front cover?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-jaqpJdAcEEdZrE5YrutjAqVs5mKEm6PonQWz6_NAmXRm-4FkFM9cJ2Ujd9Xgo5NJlZpXfSrZGY-FNB-kAcASxOBxEGFxrL6L9HqOAwmWjR00UJhsDLUsof3HpNTDjkajL t4VQdsx7Bm0HtL5gAEKWlmqpzMcJKG5JANPTlrEzfqm_ioC1M-mxDS7A/s320/IMG_1501.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-jaqpJdAcEEdZrE5YrutjAqVs5mKEm6PonQWz6_NAmXRm-4FkFM9cJ2Ujd9Xgo5NJlZpXfSrZGY-FNB-kAcASxOBxEGFxrL6L9HqOAwmWjR00UJhsDLUsof3HpNTDjkajL t4VQdsx7Bm0HtL5gAEKWlmqpzMcJKG5JANPTlrEzfqm_ioC1M-mxDS7A/s4032/IMG_1501.HEIC)
Mascot Update
With much sadness and anger still being felt over the departure of Keane Lewis Otter, it is important that is natural successor Oscar the Owl hits the ground running. 8th September in Oldham looks a fitting place to debut.
One flaw with him, he's a snowy owl i.e. white, so any grime might show up over the years!
He's currently on the shelf, bonding with Colin, Pedro and Naughty Little Cousin Pumpy. Breckie the Sheep is in the kitchen - but I can't use him because of RetiredMartin's Baa Baa Toure which is a shame because he is the only suitably sized mascot i.e. small. Colin is a bit big boned no offence, get him on Keto, what I'm saying is that it is far from ideal when you are packing a rucksack for a nine day jaunt in Cornwall.
Meanwhile, Alex the Apple (2 appearances in 3 years, so very much the Steve Harper of BRAPA mascots) is looking to engineer a move away from the club.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4ezI_WkQ0D4fSczArBT7GjWLeNiSPZFVCfF9rslFgo QzaX1F5CxrCtxaH_fZZGiVpHnVjgHiSsA8auiSWu42RQrwy0xy mnsIIAJM9u8d4sdX5xpTUyLDcNaSvEIFl56h31zPP-NDuyVCk-XB9HAhUiSGEOEFv6rWm_1km4sngKWMI3OtA1z4xl_mIw/s320/IMG_1502.PNG (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4ezI_WkQ0D4fSczArBT7GjWLeNiSPZFVCfF9rslFgo QzaX1F5CxrCtxaH_fZZGiVpHnVjgHiSsA8auiSWu42RQrwy0xy mnsIIAJM9u8d4sdX5xpTUyLDcNaSvEIFl56h31zPP-NDuyVCk-XB9HAhUiSGEOEFv6rWm_1km4sngKWMI3OtA1z4xl_mIw/s570/IMG_1502.PNG)
Alex the Apple
THREE GOOD, THREE BAD
Pubs of the month? I'm putting these three forward for the year end ceremony on NYE.
1. Old Crown, Hesket Newmarket
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N_Rc9Qb8NmvgRGF330GvJDI3xqvU3QywdeEpigUTFO AKk_WrZTlFZkF8TGPm3rfqEAmXl2Prlle-WZJAXxbqaWoVQeYWg6VawIAo1O0Il9QpxGkGJVrB3G_YVcBdJs LKrqOC2LeMIqlZ7-IEEvwYTsa5h7TOMst9wrVf-aExJkTEfFfiN-JsdU0QiQ/s320/IMG_1298.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N_Rc9Qb8NmvgRGF330GvJDI3xqvU3QywdeEpigUTFO AKk_WrZTlFZkF8TGPm3rfqEAmXl2Prlle-WZJAXxbqaWoVQeYWg6VawIAo1O0Il9QpxGkGJVrB3G_YVcBdJs LKrqOC2LeMIqlZ7-IEEvwYTsa5h7TOMst9wrVf-aExJkTEfFfiN-JsdU0QiQ/s4032/IMG_1298.HEIC)
2. Five Bells, Eynsford
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZro5mC3j2aCLgkvEfaO3YKAH59ZjOwWlEgDETNZQKoC wHmDJNND9i_9bzS1wi62AS3KjoYP_OjK0GLVwS9LME7Xykb8V6 yZqTMYdkrvxlgFb2y4hFKV-3X5CauZjjXYF0wR2IknMseb9D5GW1ljIlQ9AnahM9ZqxlVFmwU gMecqaeoi3yVSm6FuhSSw/s320/IMG_1383.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZro5mC3j2aCLgkvEfaO3YKAH59ZjOwWlEgDETNZQKoC wHmDJNND9i_9bzS1wi62AS3KjoYP_OjK0GLVwS9LME7Xykb8V6 yZqTMYdkrvxlgFb2y4hFKV-3X5CauZjjXYF0wR2IknMseb9D5GW1ljIlQ9AnahM9ZqxlVFmwU gMecqaeoi3yVSm6FuhSSw/s4032/IMG_1383.HEIC)
3. Cock Inn, Luddesdown
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZEkjAq_FFJxg78Wq_YvXapeOdqn3R9YkP0PBkGjckI L_KZPNklpr2hGqUiMKjhQ99z7Palu2A-T_KCBF1At2CYg1fQ78k1brTtV0FFyYXIrudq_5QH6kqBHkvwet 4VaKXuRzPT37Afx8W1uHLGXwzTLP-g2-0G33AIhWJHmpY_XcGo2Ja9SQ1OC53w/s320/IMG_1363.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZEkjAq_FFJxg78Wq_YvXapeOdqn3R9YkP0PBkGjckI L_KZPNklpr2hGqUiMKjhQ99z7Palu2A-T_KCBF1At2CYg1fQ78k1brTtV0FFyYXIrudq_5QH6kqBHkvwet 4VaKXuRzPT37Afx8W1uHLGXwzTLP-g2-0G33AIhWJHmpY_XcGo2Ja9SQ1OC53w/s4032/IMG_1363.HEIC)
And three that really left me annoyed and wanting to pull my eyeballs out or puke violently into the vortex. 1. Plough, Grimsargh
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7gyXrhrBlmC2wTnLpPPatafs61t4ECs558xy_BvAogw m-SNPzTqB26r1LuMUcUNIhXgxsEf0FHVwsEydpj2sCfFFKD7rXSN TzLbxR5O5y1ZfGyutgRVDaycfEzFoOX7Zl0mRO7sudHZaJw9hC Ecwd3YnJamTE8Ih37YkqivAV5L56mnsNs6H6_g8xqQ/s320/IMG_1151.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7gyXrhrBlmC2wTnLpPPatafs61t4ECs558xy_BvAogw m-SNPzTqB26r1LuMUcUNIhXgxsEf0FHVwsEydpj2sCfFFKD7rXSN TzLbxR5O5y1ZfGyutgRVDaycfEzFoOX7Zl0mRO7sudHZaJw9hC Ecwd3YnJamTE8Ih37YkqivAV5L56mnsNs6H6_g8xqQ/s3763/IMG_1151.HEIC)
2. Yacht, Bexleyheath
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSo_MfzejCGCHHp9WXGyZr3C_5OEABnN8aY0szaGhrri TYbwwg7HxjSBfF-ITnPyc4P8ySRcEI_PVVmM91yyN1aCWd1jLmWOQnOFhGBkjFMyU Og4eq39S9yj3XlmfEp3vMKqdePfkofCC1GQzDVq-OYx0V4rvnzZBSEMUUW96_44s5f34vg9kxv6kwtQ/s320/IMG_1437.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSo_MfzejCGCHHp9WXGyZr3C_5OEABnN8aY0szaGhrri TYbwwg7HxjSBfF-ITnPyc4P8ySRcEI_PVVmM91yyN1aCWd1jLmWOQnOFhGBkjFMyU Og4eq39S9yj3XlmfEp3vMKqdePfkofCC1GQzDVq-OYx0V4rvnzZBSEMUUW96_44s5f34vg9kxv6kwtQ/s3502/IMG_1437.HEIC)
3. Five Bells, Chelsfield
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhPanp3QGxTJFFT25zZ0KGPsEbJPWHl2kdr-4DTLUjz1i_knb9DVWfNtRP4Slc_4jN6EImQb4F_KYLjf8y166j 8QPiyxZZ12Nv05DfJ_0Q5MR5P9Qx7cTHpaJoPA1dtijIfOnbAb v2u9rlw7tSDL-bSGhGsMJXhdxG8f2LAldUEWwzWa2lUskpl04Xw/s320/IMG_1429.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhPanp3QGxTJFFT25zZ0KGPsEbJPWHl2kdr-4DTLUjz1i_knb9DVWfNtRP4Slc_4jN6EImQb4F_KYLjf8y166j 8QPiyxZZ12Nv05DfJ_0Q5MR5P9Qx7cTHpaJoPA1dtijIfOnbAb v2u9rlw7tSDL-bSGhGsMJXhdxG8f2LAldUEWwzWa2lUskpl04Xw/s4032/IMG_1429.HEIC)
A couple more awards to hand down.Most Appalling Glassware of 2022 so far - Voluteer, Bexleyheath
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDyZ_zcYvqoEGb1xeUgF7r846fDNaDwxsExXRwN-c2MSwT_jZIi5um3lKtvrUJtWJ3aII5F0gzQVTosaVJ2n21t98Q zr_CaqbYtxYfEPppRCWZFk_ExafJRIpSfKYxejVFqqRnqMjfdp ZqD87VcMPg5nwm7h6cZSJkaVnHj7N9xVlNe1wy_DtgUNOvg/s320/IMG_1440.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDyZ_zcYvqoEGb1xeUgF7r846fDNaDwxsExXRwN-c2MSwT_jZIi5um3lKtvrUJtWJ3aII5F0gzQVTosaVJ2n21t98Q zr_CaqbYtxYfEPppRCWZFk_ExafJRIpSfKYxejVFqqRnqMjfdp ZqD87VcMPg5nwm7h6cZSJkaVnHj7N9xVlNe1wy_DtgUNOvg/s4032/IMG_1440.HEIC)
Octagonal bottom, jam jar upper, impossible to grasp, very heavy
Most Logistically Challenging Pub Bogs of 2022 so far - Shickers, Blackpool
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FzlXuWRnzXqrd-hHHGfIgfW9j2jWpTZRPEjwxu71Q-ZtkUj40PzovWTnb0uEkrgGnNo7yKKZUBP2ohv5TZbSijMgcJ9E pfzl5HogkGX-zvIhMMlUpn_xUxz3oLkWYBitC6yzf4xcf22gSMWaE71VhnGLnB ibiYJSxE75QkiLjDe1uVObtul8xXOEvQ/s320/IMG_1193.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FzlXuWRnzXqrd-hHHGfIgfW9j2jWpTZRPEjwxu71Q-ZtkUj40PzovWTnb0uEkrgGnNo7yKKZUBP2ohv5TZbSijMgcJ9E pfzl5HogkGX-zvIhMMlUpn_xUxz3oLkWYBitC6yzf4xcf22gSMWaE71VhnGLnB ibiYJSxE75QkiLjDe1uVObtul8xXOEvQ/s4032/IMG_1193.HEIC)
I know space is at a premium in micros, but c'mon, this is taking the piss a bit (so to speak)
BRAPA Bumper Blog Blitz
Sick of being behind on blogs? Wake up in the night composing paragraphs about rural Cumbria or snotty South London in your head? I do. It is, in 2022 terms, a mental health issue. I know that because #WokeSi2022.
So I've set myself a challenge. Over the next 3 blogging nights (Thursday, Friday and either Sunday or Monday), I'm going to give myself a word limit - not sure what yet - two photos max, and one sentence max on getting between pubs, and blog 10-11 pubs. This'll be fun. And tricky for me!
We'll see how successful it is, but I'm not saying it is the future or anything like that.
County Progress
Getting stuck into counties this late in the ticking year feels a bit silly, but that's what I've started doing with Kent and South East London. I've got some very decent price train tickets, that's what makes it so appealing at present, being a bit skint from too many trips away earlier in the summer.
With Kent, I'm having to pretend that Faversham is the furthest point east at this stage just for my own sanity. Dover? Ramsgate? Broadstairs? Get in the sea!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76-73qFefBLb7qG_Sm8x27COjPV1R51wB-O2LtuPTotQbfyz9iXfpNZ8KoKeDHp5rewgN9frdy3xbGfa-sgj9HRALFe6ddSuqb5V208_BXIi5S4PApmIRnTOlaQExL5DFXm ZKIprhWr6AbSSo985-TKjQDvR8krXoZyKLYh59VXj551fLS_KB2y0CIg/s320/IMG_1504.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76-73qFefBLb7qG_Sm8x27COjPV1R51wB-O2LtuPTotQbfyz9iXfpNZ8KoKeDHp5rewgN9frdy3xbGfa-sgj9HRALFe6ddSuqb5V208_BXIi5S4PApmIRnTOlaQExL5DFXm ZKIprhWr6AbSSo985-TKjQDvR8krXoZyKLYh59VXj551fLS_KB2y0CIg/s3217/IMG_1504.HEIC)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a8zn5dVp-Fm0any8H-zkT7nKkFU2ROXC4Ehjq3nizqlRZqXlngaE45DojutBAN2jPIt8 bBv3Aa5wWfszz26S1gBJ1aVdTvC-RzJceLDO4-5k2w6Z_cDLzNQJHZBN0YAsEd0bD8QaNZBuxEhyK1XT-CWLbAv2wBmCA9QM3lGiOvZxSP9Qry12P1E2qQ/s320/IMG_1505.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a8zn5dVp-Fm0any8H-zkT7nKkFU2ROXC4Ehjq3nizqlRZqXlngaE45DojutBAN2jPIt8 bBv3Aa5wWfszz26S1gBJ1aVdTvC-RzJceLDO4-5k2w6Z_cDLzNQJHZBN0YAsEd0bD8QaNZBuxEhyK1XT-CWLbAv2wBmCA9QM3lGiOvZxSP9Qry12P1E2qQ/s4032/IMG_1505.HEIC)
I've also been pleased with my Cumbrian progress, though my remaining ticks are getting scattered and strung out. With a new GBG on the horizon, I'll likely leave it alone now until the World Cup .... Daddy BRAPA and I are 'in talks' about a few interesting trips and I'm sure he loved driving me to Hesket Newmarket so much, could similar happen again in December?
He's been sat outside a closed Red Lion in Lowick Bridge today with Mummy BRAPA, so he certainly knows his way to that one!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXq8I2Q32goFTTSafXV0rmBeWZK00mhOEuZeeff_jFW WOPK3KEgSm-6A4lVMQ4WPMKxDL3ZX-0y9oANFO8m-z68NcKm6vooAXkK88t23hh-BNYzMyW5xkYQogCTEkUEqCUkCPVkcojsYrf78fGwn0Ov7yxuLq 1HiQI7O4SDfVrLWeOBR03V7njjQX7A/s320/IMG_1506.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXq8I2Q32goFTTSafXV0rmBeWZK00mhOEuZeeff_jFW WOPK3KEgSm-6A4lVMQ4WPMKxDL3ZX-0y9oANFO8m-z68NcKm6vooAXkK88t23hh-BNYzMyW5xkYQogCTEkUEqCUkCPVkcojsYrf78fGwn0Ov7yxuLq 1HiQI7O4SDfVrLWeOBR03V7njjQX7A/s4032/IMG_1506.HEIC)
I've really buggered up my hopes of getting a fully green Lancashire this year. Don't get me wrong, East Lancs and Knott End on Sea are still on the agenda, but I've totally effed my Longridge and Silverdale hopes I reckon this time out. Not financially viable to travel over to either for the price of one poxy tick.
A shame, but I have made great progress so cannot complain too much.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ3iXT3b14eOMkITv_k3IwsUy2Y_DOPOFAOZbBVH1xB GKSW0n1c_FoKG2pfLvO1qc_vWnQYeqMOKhfFNDLVUvQ_B1eHAw 7o3iOow74t4SRckNwD-cC1ljZ00RtO8Xw4bLNBx7oEZuQOsyQy92JYoCuOsrk7U_9Rpeu PBWwXlA8X3pmEBvR6l_rOOU4g/s320/IMG_1507.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ3iXT3b14eOMkITv_k3IwsUy2Y_DOPOFAOZbBVH1xB GKSW0n1c_FoKG2pfLvO1qc_vWnQYeqMOKhfFNDLVUvQ_B1eHAw 7o3iOow74t4SRckNwD-cC1ljZ00RtO8Xw4bLNBx7oEZuQOsyQy92JYoCuOsrk7U_9Rpeu PBWwXlA8X3pmEBvR6l_rOOU4g/s4032/IMG_1507.HEIC)
And Greater Manchester is so close, I just need a Thursday. Sadly not tomorrow cos I'm working, but the week after, 12 noon, I'll be knocking on a bastard pub door come hell or high water!
September / October
TWO holidays coming up so my number will continue to rise before the 2023 GBG plops on my door mat probably third week of October I'm guessing.
It occurred to me I've not done a totally 'new' county yet this year so my second holiday will be in one of my zero tick places. I'll let you guess which one from the list of 11 below and if you win, which you'll find out in early October, I've got a little prize for you.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJNO2T-cOXFfKX7dmsxt5in5r4ojbqdUBsBqBbgrVDfPM8IedzXCEhfMK eSRCuos9Ww7s5WRbpsF_4tBee0p2LsbfcB1dteOTYAED--D3x9HIoSsZ_4ZEQ3e8avS35wf6X5wA0muTgZLuoW8uJ7hBtinC 7w3B9-E_WPlseQKEBIyfJyXJBkY2A-8jh4g (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJNO2T-cOXFfKX7dmsxt5in5r4ojbqdUBsBqBbgrVDfPM8IedzXCEhfMK eSRCuos9Ww7s5WRbpsF_4tBee0p2LsbfcB1dteOTYAED--D3x9HIoSsZ_4ZEQ3e8avS35wf6X5wA0muTgZLuoW8uJ7hBtinC 7w3B9-E_WPlseQKEBIyfJyXJBkY2A-8jh4g)
And I think that's a nice place to leave it.Thanks for tuning in, see you in a random UK pub on Saturday morning. Time for Shetland (the programme, not the pub ticks sadly, how the 'eck is Tosh gonna get outta this one?)
Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/08/brapa-month-end-review-august-2022.html)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3PHGlnK1WqEwF-PjKPCkqEqGhXgP5yk-BE4F9hGl3kmw2n0hWsQWk_PylB9V8w9ORv-RD_XMT04juUAjHii0_tA4jyHmeqJUdfhSavlJ9Y6kZlF0QCML3 l3Ntt4bPqh5a_YoeebT0Mwc-PmH3iUMZbbD9TCfQz0TWvGPYbHuGh397NhBbZlJNCV9VQ/s320/IMG_1287.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3PHGlnK1WqEwF-PjKPCkqEqGhXgP5yk-BE4F9hGl3kmw2n0hWsQWk_PylB9V8w9ORv-RD_XMT04juUAjHii0_tA4jyHmeqJUdfhSavlJ9Y6kZlF0QCML3 l3Ntt4bPqh5a_YoeebT0Mwc-PmH3iUMZbbD9TCfQz0TWvGPYbHuGh397NhBbZlJNCV9VQ/s3088/IMG_1287.HEIC)
Greetings. Six or seven weeks away from the 2023, we are approaching that time of year when it is hard to do your ticking without thoughts turning to what might be in the next edition, and whether what you are doing now is actually worth it!
A shameful 13 pubs from 1st - 26th August put me under pressure this month. I'm blaming punk festival, train strikes and work making me work a couple of (not very) #ThirstyThursdays.
In fact, scrap that. Let me spin it another way.
'RetiredMartin is getting so close to the finishing line as his recent Scottish highland blogs testify, I decided it'd be disrespectful to tick with any real gusto so decided to sit back, relax, give him his moment in the sun'.
There we go, that sounded convincing didn't it?
The Science Bit
A fantastic 20 pub Bank Holiday weekend tick-a-thon down in Kent and SE London saved me from total embarrassment.
I ended on 33 pubs, my lowest 2022 monthly tally to date, but with 7 promising pre-emptives added in (most of which were in Blackpool), it wasn't all that bad. If current projections remain on course, Blackpool will have more micropubs than the whole of Kent by the year 2090 - and that is a BRAPA fact.
I'm 52.4% of the way through the GBG, I've gained 332 pubs since the 2022 Guide came out (a record by 68 already) and I've visited 3920 pubs that have been in ANY Good Beer Guide.
My top 20 most visited counties are:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4aOLJm9d3ckCOPrhIzMcDxfSN33rT_2ZIYC1Z_BMuTg SKYD7R1u5J9DcRb7m5KW5Ugbn1slGC3SxTSEAKjUkbrw0KYlzy AOIY24P0ODEUfXKZfNZ9Jmpj5XnLZFksl2lObVBmIT7A_o5ck_ 6Weuuw7QTCtIjvQRG2u83pc0gVaIKyL-rfyrVWBNNdMw=w640-h296 (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4aOLJm9d3ckCOPrhIzMcDxfSN33rT_2ZIYC1Z_BMuTg SKYD7R1u5J9DcRb7m5KW5Ugbn1slGC3SxTSEAKjUkbrw0KYlzy AOIY24P0ODEUfXKZfNZ9Jmpj5XnLZFksl2lObVBmIT7A_o5ck_ 6Weuuw7QTCtIjvQRG2u83pc0gVaIKyL-rfyrVWBNNdMw)
The far right column shows ticks done in the 2022 Guide.Overall, it has been a brilliant ticking year so I'm too sad about an average August.
Cover Update
'On a thread, on a thread, it is hanging on a thread!'
Which pub will it finally fall off in? Or can it hang on until mid-late October? And if it doesn't, do I put a rubber band around it? Or do I laminate the 'new' front cover?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-jaqpJdAcEEdZrE5YrutjAqVs5mKEm6PonQWz6_NAmXRm-4FkFM9cJ2Ujd9Xgo5NJlZpXfSrZGY-FNB-kAcASxOBxEGFxrL6L9HqOAwmWjR00UJhsDLUsof3HpNTDjkajL t4VQdsx7Bm0HtL5gAEKWlmqpzMcJKG5JANPTlrEzfqm_ioC1M-mxDS7A/s320/IMG_1501.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-jaqpJdAcEEdZrE5YrutjAqVs5mKEm6PonQWz6_NAmXRm-4FkFM9cJ2Ujd9Xgo5NJlZpXfSrZGY-FNB-kAcASxOBxEGFxrL6L9HqOAwmWjR00UJhsDLUsof3HpNTDjkajL t4VQdsx7Bm0HtL5gAEKWlmqpzMcJKG5JANPTlrEzfqm_ioC1M-mxDS7A/s4032/IMG_1501.HEIC)
Mascot Update
With much sadness and anger still being felt over the departure of Keane Lewis Otter, it is important that is natural successor Oscar the Owl hits the ground running. 8th September in Oldham looks a fitting place to debut.
One flaw with him, he's a snowy owl i.e. white, so any grime might show up over the years!
He's currently on the shelf, bonding with Colin, Pedro and Naughty Little Cousin Pumpy. Breckie the Sheep is in the kitchen - but I can't use him because of RetiredMartin's Baa Baa Toure which is a shame because he is the only suitably sized mascot i.e. small. Colin is a bit big boned no offence, get him on Keto, what I'm saying is that it is far from ideal when you are packing a rucksack for a nine day jaunt in Cornwall.
Meanwhile, Alex the Apple (2 appearances in 3 years, so very much the Steve Harper of BRAPA mascots) is looking to engineer a move away from the club.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4ezI_WkQ0D4fSczArBT7GjWLeNiSPZFVCfF9rslFgo QzaX1F5CxrCtxaH_fZZGiVpHnVjgHiSsA8auiSWu42RQrwy0xy mnsIIAJM9u8d4sdX5xpTUyLDcNaSvEIFl56h31zPP-NDuyVCk-XB9HAhUiSGEOEFv6rWm_1km4sngKWMI3OtA1z4xl_mIw/s320/IMG_1502.PNG (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4ezI_WkQ0D4fSczArBT7GjWLeNiSPZFVCfF9rslFgo QzaX1F5CxrCtxaH_fZZGiVpHnVjgHiSsA8auiSWu42RQrwy0xy mnsIIAJM9u8d4sdX5xpTUyLDcNaSvEIFl56h31zPP-NDuyVCk-XB9HAhUiSGEOEFv6rWm_1km4sngKWMI3OtA1z4xl_mIw/s570/IMG_1502.PNG)
Alex the Apple
THREE GOOD, THREE BAD
Pubs of the month? I'm putting these three forward for the year end ceremony on NYE.
1. Old Crown, Hesket Newmarket
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N_Rc9Qb8NmvgRGF330GvJDI3xqvU3QywdeEpigUTFO AKk_WrZTlFZkF8TGPm3rfqEAmXl2Prlle-WZJAXxbqaWoVQeYWg6VawIAo1O0Il9QpxGkGJVrB3G_YVcBdJs LKrqOC2LeMIqlZ7-IEEvwYTsa5h7TOMst9wrVf-aExJkTEfFfiN-JsdU0QiQ/s320/IMG_1298.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N_Rc9Qb8NmvgRGF330GvJDI3xqvU3QywdeEpigUTFO AKk_WrZTlFZkF8TGPm3rfqEAmXl2Prlle-WZJAXxbqaWoVQeYWg6VawIAo1O0Il9QpxGkGJVrB3G_YVcBdJs LKrqOC2LeMIqlZ7-IEEvwYTsa5h7TOMst9wrVf-aExJkTEfFfiN-JsdU0QiQ/s4032/IMG_1298.HEIC)
2. Five Bells, Eynsford
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZro5mC3j2aCLgkvEfaO3YKAH59ZjOwWlEgDETNZQKoC wHmDJNND9i_9bzS1wi62AS3KjoYP_OjK0GLVwS9LME7Xykb8V6 yZqTMYdkrvxlgFb2y4hFKV-3X5CauZjjXYF0wR2IknMseb9D5GW1ljIlQ9AnahM9ZqxlVFmwU gMecqaeoi3yVSm6FuhSSw/s320/IMG_1383.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZro5mC3j2aCLgkvEfaO3YKAH59ZjOwWlEgDETNZQKoC wHmDJNND9i_9bzS1wi62AS3KjoYP_OjK0GLVwS9LME7Xykb8V6 yZqTMYdkrvxlgFb2y4hFKV-3X5CauZjjXYF0wR2IknMseb9D5GW1ljIlQ9AnahM9ZqxlVFmwU gMecqaeoi3yVSm6FuhSSw/s4032/IMG_1383.HEIC)
3. Cock Inn, Luddesdown
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZEkjAq_FFJxg78Wq_YvXapeOdqn3R9YkP0PBkGjckI L_KZPNklpr2hGqUiMKjhQ99z7Palu2A-T_KCBF1At2CYg1fQ78k1brTtV0FFyYXIrudq_5QH6kqBHkvwet 4VaKXuRzPT37Afx8W1uHLGXwzTLP-g2-0G33AIhWJHmpY_XcGo2Ja9SQ1OC53w/s320/IMG_1363.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZEkjAq_FFJxg78Wq_YvXapeOdqn3R9YkP0PBkGjckI L_KZPNklpr2hGqUiMKjhQ99z7Palu2A-T_KCBF1At2CYg1fQ78k1brTtV0FFyYXIrudq_5QH6kqBHkvwet 4VaKXuRzPT37Afx8W1uHLGXwzTLP-g2-0G33AIhWJHmpY_XcGo2Ja9SQ1OC53w/s4032/IMG_1363.HEIC)
And three that really left me annoyed and wanting to pull my eyeballs out or puke violently into the vortex. 1. Plough, Grimsargh
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7gyXrhrBlmC2wTnLpPPatafs61t4ECs558xy_BvAogw m-SNPzTqB26r1LuMUcUNIhXgxsEf0FHVwsEydpj2sCfFFKD7rXSN TzLbxR5O5y1ZfGyutgRVDaycfEzFoOX7Zl0mRO7sudHZaJw9hC Ecwd3YnJamTE8Ih37YkqivAV5L56mnsNs6H6_g8xqQ/s320/IMG_1151.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7gyXrhrBlmC2wTnLpPPatafs61t4ECs558xy_BvAogw m-SNPzTqB26r1LuMUcUNIhXgxsEf0FHVwsEydpj2sCfFFKD7rXSN TzLbxR5O5y1ZfGyutgRVDaycfEzFoOX7Zl0mRO7sudHZaJw9hC Ecwd3YnJamTE8Ih37YkqivAV5L56mnsNs6H6_g8xqQ/s3763/IMG_1151.HEIC)
2. Yacht, Bexleyheath
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSo_MfzejCGCHHp9WXGyZr3C_5OEABnN8aY0szaGhrri TYbwwg7HxjSBfF-ITnPyc4P8ySRcEI_PVVmM91yyN1aCWd1jLmWOQnOFhGBkjFMyU Og4eq39S9yj3XlmfEp3vMKqdePfkofCC1GQzDVq-OYx0V4rvnzZBSEMUUW96_44s5f34vg9kxv6kwtQ/s320/IMG_1437.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSo_MfzejCGCHHp9WXGyZr3C_5OEABnN8aY0szaGhrri TYbwwg7HxjSBfF-ITnPyc4P8ySRcEI_PVVmM91yyN1aCWd1jLmWOQnOFhGBkjFMyU Og4eq39S9yj3XlmfEp3vMKqdePfkofCC1GQzDVq-OYx0V4rvnzZBSEMUUW96_44s5f34vg9kxv6kwtQ/s3502/IMG_1437.HEIC)
3. Five Bells, Chelsfield
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhPanp3QGxTJFFT25zZ0KGPsEbJPWHl2kdr-4DTLUjz1i_knb9DVWfNtRP4Slc_4jN6EImQb4F_KYLjf8y166j 8QPiyxZZ12Nv05DfJ_0Q5MR5P9Qx7cTHpaJoPA1dtijIfOnbAb v2u9rlw7tSDL-bSGhGsMJXhdxG8f2LAldUEWwzWa2lUskpl04Xw/s320/IMG_1429.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhPanp3QGxTJFFT25zZ0KGPsEbJPWHl2kdr-4DTLUjz1i_knb9DVWfNtRP4Slc_4jN6EImQb4F_KYLjf8y166j 8QPiyxZZ12Nv05DfJ_0Q5MR5P9Qx7cTHpaJoPA1dtijIfOnbAb v2u9rlw7tSDL-bSGhGsMJXhdxG8f2LAldUEWwzWa2lUskpl04Xw/s4032/IMG_1429.HEIC)
A couple more awards to hand down.Most Appalling Glassware of 2022 so far - Voluteer, Bexleyheath
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDyZ_zcYvqoEGb1xeUgF7r846fDNaDwxsExXRwN-c2MSwT_jZIi5um3lKtvrUJtWJ3aII5F0gzQVTosaVJ2n21t98Q zr_CaqbYtxYfEPppRCWZFk_ExafJRIpSfKYxejVFqqRnqMjfdp ZqD87VcMPg5nwm7h6cZSJkaVnHj7N9xVlNe1wy_DtgUNOvg/s320/IMG_1440.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDyZ_zcYvqoEGb1xeUgF7r846fDNaDwxsExXRwN-c2MSwT_jZIi5um3lKtvrUJtWJ3aII5F0gzQVTosaVJ2n21t98Q zr_CaqbYtxYfEPppRCWZFk_ExafJRIpSfKYxejVFqqRnqMjfdp ZqD87VcMPg5nwm7h6cZSJkaVnHj7N9xVlNe1wy_DtgUNOvg/s4032/IMG_1440.HEIC)
Octagonal bottom, jam jar upper, impossible to grasp, very heavy
Most Logistically Challenging Pub Bogs of 2022 so far - Shickers, Blackpool
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FzlXuWRnzXqrd-hHHGfIgfW9j2jWpTZRPEjwxu71Q-ZtkUj40PzovWTnb0uEkrgGnNo7yKKZUBP2ohv5TZbSijMgcJ9E pfzl5HogkGX-zvIhMMlUpn_xUxz3oLkWYBitC6yzf4xcf22gSMWaE71VhnGLnB ibiYJSxE75QkiLjDe1uVObtul8xXOEvQ/s320/IMG_1193.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FzlXuWRnzXqrd-hHHGfIgfW9j2jWpTZRPEjwxu71Q-ZtkUj40PzovWTnb0uEkrgGnNo7yKKZUBP2ohv5TZbSijMgcJ9E pfzl5HogkGX-zvIhMMlUpn_xUxz3oLkWYBitC6yzf4xcf22gSMWaE71VhnGLnB ibiYJSxE75QkiLjDe1uVObtul8xXOEvQ/s4032/IMG_1193.HEIC)
I know space is at a premium in micros, but c'mon, this is taking the piss a bit (so to speak)
BRAPA Bumper Blog Blitz
Sick of being behind on blogs? Wake up in the night composing paragraphs about rural Cumbria or snotty South London in your head? I do. It is, in 2022 terms, a mental health issue. I know that because #WokeSi2022.
So I've set myself a challenge. Over the next 3 blogging nights (Thursday, Friday and either Sunday or Monday), I'm going to give myself a word limit - not sure what yet - two photos max, and one sentence max on getting between pubs, and blog 10-11 pubs. This'll be fun. And tricky for me!
We'll see how successful it is, but I'm not saying it is the future or anything like that.
County Progress
Getting stuck into counties this late in the ticking year feels a bit silly, but that's what I've started doing with Kent and South East London. I've got some very decent price train tickets, that's what makes it so appealing at present, being a bit skint from too many trips away earlier in the summer.
With Kent, I'm having to pretend that Faversham is the furthest point east at this stage just for my own sanity. Dover? Ramsgate? Broadstairs? Get in the sea!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76-73qFefBLb7qG_Sm8x27COjPV1R51wB-O2LtuPTotQbfyz9iXfpNZ8KoKeDHp5rewgN9frdy3xbGfa-sgj9HRALFe6ddSuqb5V208_BXIi5S4PApmIRnTOlaQExL5DFXm ZKIprhWr6AbSSo985-TKjQDvR8krXoZyKLYh59VXj551fLS_KB2y0CIg/s320/IMG_1504.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76-73qFefBLb7qG_Sm8x27COjPV1R51wB-O2LtuPTotQbfyz9iXfpNZ8KoKeDHp5rewgN9frdy3xbGfa-sgj9HRALFe6ddSuqb5V208_BXIi5S4PApmIRnTOlaQExL5DFXm ZKIprhWr6AbSSo985-TKjQDvR8krXoZyKLYh59VXj551fLS_KB2y0CIg/s3217/IMG_1504.HEIC)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a8zn5dVp-Fm0any8H-zkT7nKkFU2ROXC4Ehjq3nizqlRZqXlngaE45DojutBAN2jPIt8 bBv3Aa5wWfszz26S1gBJ1aVdTvC-RzJceLDO4-5k2w6Z_cDLzNQJHZBN0YAsEd0bD8QaNZBuxEhyK1XT-CWLbAv2wBmCA9QM3lGiOvZxSP9Qry12P1E2qQ/s320/IMG_1505.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a8zn5dVp-Fm0any8H-zkT7nKkFU2ROXC4Ehjq3nizqlRZqXlngaE45DojutBAN2jPIt8 bBv3Aa5wWfszz26S1gBJ1aVdTvC-RzJceLDO4-5k2w6Z_cDLzNQJHZBN0YAsEd0bD8QaNZBuxEhyK1XT-CWLbAv2wBmCA9QM3lGiOvZxSP9Qry12P1E2qQ/s4032/IMG_1505.HEIC)
I've also been pleased with my Cumbrian progress, though my remaining ticks are getting scattered and strung out. With a new GBG on the horizon, I'll likely leave it alone now until the World Cup .... Daddy BRAPA and I are 'in talks' about a few interesting trips and I'm sure he loved driving me to Hesket Newmarket so much, could similar happen again in December?
He's been sat outside a closed Red Lion in Lowick Bridge today with Mummy BRAPA, so he certainly knows his way to that one!
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXq8I2Q32goFTTSafXV0rmBeWZK00mhOEuZeeff_jFW WOPK3KEgSm-6A4lVMQ4WPMKxDL3ZX-0y9oANFO8m-z68NcKm6vooAXkK88t23hh-BNYzMyW5xkYQogCTEkUEqCUkCPVkcojsYrf78fGwn0Ov7yxuLq 1HiQI7O4SDfVrLWeOBR03V7njjQX7A/s320/IMG_1506.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXq8I2Q32goFTTSafXV0rmBeWZK00mhOEuZeeff_jFW WOPK3KEgSm-6A4lVMQ4WPMKxDL3ZX-0y9oANFO8m-z68NcKm6vooAXkK88t23hh-BNYzMyW5xkYQogCTEkUEqCUkCPVkcojsYrf78fGwn0Ov7yxuLq 1HiQI7O4SDfVrLWeOBR03V7njjQX7A/s4032/IMG_1506.HEIC)
I've really buggered up my hopes of getting a fully green Lancashire this year. Don't get me wrong, East Lancs and Knott End on Sea are still on the agenda, but I've totally effed my Longridge and Silverdale hopes I reckon this time out. Not financially viable to travel over to either for the price of one poxy tick.
A shame, but I have made great progress so cannot complain too much.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ3iXT3b14eOMkITv_k3IwsUy2Y_DOPOFAOZbBVH1xB GKSW0n1c_FoKG2pfLvO1qc_vWnQYeqMOKhfFNDLVUvQ_B1eHAw 7o3iOow74t4SRckNwD-cC1ljZ00RtO8Xw4bLNBx7oEZuQOsyQy92JYoCuOsrk7U_9Rpeu PBWwXlA8X3pmEBvR6l_rOOU4g/s320/IMG_1507.HEIC (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ3iXT3b14eOMkITv_k3IwsUy2Y_DOPOFAOZbBVH1xB GKSW0n1c_FoKG2pfLvO1qc_vWnQYeqMOKhfFNDLVUvQ_B1eHAw 7o3iOow74t4SRckNwD-cC1ljZ00RtO8Xw4bLNBx7oEZuQOsyQy92JYoCuOsrk7U_9Rpeu PBWwXlA8X3pmEBvR6l_rOOU4g/s4032/IMG_1507.HEIC)
And Greater Manchester is so close, I just need a Thursday. Sadly not tomorrow cos I'm working, but the week after, 12 noon, I'll be knocking on a bastard pub door come hell or high water!
September / October
TWO holidays coming up so my number will continue to rise before the 2023 GBG plops on my door mat probably third week of October I'm guessing.
It occurred to me I've not done a totally 'new' county yet this year so my second holiday will be in one of my zero tick places. I'll let you guess which one from the list of 11 below and if you win, which you'll find out in early October, I've got a little prize for you.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJNO2T-cOXFfKX7dmsxt5in5r4ojbqdUBsBqBbgrVDfPM8IedzXCEhfMK eSRCuos9Ww7s5WRbpsF_4tBee0p2LsbfcB1dteOTYAED--D3x9HIoSsZ_4ZEQ3e8avS35wf6X5wA0muTgZLuoW8uJ7hBtinC 7w3B9-E_WPlseQKEBIyfJyXJBkY2A-8jh4g (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJNO2T-cOXFfKX7dmsxt5in5r4ojbqdUBsBqBbgrVDfPM8IedzXCEhfMK eSRCuos9Ww7s5WRbpsF_4tBee0p2LsbfcB1dteOTYAED--D3x9HIoSsZ_4ZEQ3e8avS35wf6X5wA0muTgZLuoW8uJ7hBtinC 7w3B9-E_WPlseQKEBIyfJyXJBkY2A-8jh4g)
And I think that's a nice place to leave it.Thanks for tuning in, see you in a random UK pub on Saturday morning. Time for Shetland (the programme, not the pub ticks sadly, how the 'eck is Tosh gonna get outta this one?)
Si
More... (http://brapa-4500.blogspot.com/2022/08/brapa-month-end-review-august-2022.html)