And now for something completely different!
Su Hart, my new choir leader, told us she'd be launching her first solo album at the Bell this Monday. Having heard her with the group Baka Beyond I knew I'd be in for a treat. The Bell is a superb venue as well, although perhaps not for an album launch night - most of the punters are just after free background music and a few beers (superb range of real ales by the way - I had RCH Pitchfork which I hadn't had in a long time - delicious!). The sound quality was very good, and as the band started more and more people started to pile in. Inevitably most of the choir turned up to see Su but a lot of other locals also arrived - perhaps notified by mobile phone from their mates already in the pub "There's this fantastic band on tonight, get yourself down here ASAP!" With the exception of Robb Johnson they were probably in an entirely different league to the usual bands at the Bell.
The exuberant mixture of Celtic, African and Carribean influenced songs soon got people dancing - including myself and Patrick. A crowd of people collected in front of the stage, and as the Bell is quite small things soon became rather cramped. A man in a turban type thingy was doing some very enthusiastic dancing, he seemed to know all the words and later joined the band on stage for one number.
We did buy the album as well, of course. It's called "Worth It After All". Patrick's favourite track is Zombie Jamboree (a bit different to the Spinners' version) - he can't stop singing it. I like The Great Valerio - but then I would!! You can buy it online at www.baka.co.uk
I'd also recommend seeing Baka Beyond or Su Hart and Friends live - you're guaranteed a good time!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Roy Bailey and John Kirkpatrick at Bridgewater
Roy Bailey is not doing bad, seeing as he's the same age as my Dad and is enjoying his 50th year on the folk music scene. As Patrick said, it's a shame you can't put preservation orders on people! His compassion and practical socialism always sweeps me away when I hear his songs and stories - even his children's songs are touching in the way that he can relate to children as another marginalised section of the community. And he makes everyone sing along - even the large tatooed man in the same row as us was singing 'You Need Skin' - in a very macho way :D
Was pleased when Roy sang a song about a coal barge - which sprang a leak to the crew's consternation and finally dropped it's cargo out of it's rotten hull. Not an uncommon occurrence, apparently! He also sang some of my old favourites like I Ain't Afraid and The Poison Train, also liked some of the older songs that I hadn't heard before, like The Road to Dundee.
John Kirkpatrick , the Sultan of Squeeze himself, stunned the audience with his musicianship yet complemented Roy's work well. John sang a few songs on his own such as The Green Willow (traditional) and a song about a rather fierce St George written by John himself.
I had a great time remembering the radical days of my youth (as per David Ferrard's song) - long may John and Roy continue!
Was pleased when Roy sang a song about a coal barge - which sprang a leak to the crew's consternation and finally dropped it's cargo out of it's rotten hull. Not an uncommon occurrence, apparently! He also sang some of my old favourites like I Ain't Afraid and The Poison Train, also liked some of the older songs that I hadn't heard before, like The Road to Dundee.
John Kirkpatrick , the Sultan of Squeeze himself, stunned the audience with his musicianship yet complemented Roy's work well. John sang a few songs on his own such as The Green Willow (traditional) and a song about a rather fierce St George written by John himself.
I had a great time remembering the radical days of my youth (as per David Ferrard's song) - long may John and Roy continue!
Seth Lakeman at Cardiff Student Union
Very strange to be back in my old Student Union. I haven't been there since 1996, when I had my first wedding reception disco in the Staff Dining Club!
Its music venue which I knew as the Hanging Gardens is now Solus. It was all quite dark in there, with black parachute-style curtains hanging from the ceiling. Seth suffered from bad sound at the start - we couldn't hear his introductions for the songs, let alone his singing! The sound improved as the gig went on, but it was still not very good.
Seth played a lot of his early stuff, including the famous Kitty Jay, Setting of the Sun (his take on the Molly Bond ghost song), Fight for Favour, Rifle Men of War and Take No Rogues. Of course his mining disaster song, The Colliers, was best received with the predominantly Welsh audience.
Though I loved Kitty Jay and Freedom Fields, I thought Seth's new material was a bit disappointing. Poor Man's Heaven seemed a bit patronising and the song about the stone circle a bit run-of-the-mill. Perhaps it's inevitable that later albums seem samey - it must be hard to be as innovative with each album.
That said, Seth still has a huge following for a folk artist, and has doubtlessly introduced folk music to a lot of younger people who would otherwise have regarded folk music as naff. More strength to his fiddling elbow!
Its music venue which I knew as the Hanging Gardens is now Solus. It was all quite dark in there, with black parachute-style curtains hanging from the ceiling. Seth suffered from bad sound at the start - we couldn't hear his introductions for the songs, let alone his singing! The sound improved as the gig went on, but it was still not very good.
Seth played a lot of his early stuff, including the famous Kitty Jay, Setting of the Sun (his take on the Molly Bond ghost song), Fight for Favour, Rifle Men of War and Take No Rogues. Of course his mining disaster song, The Colliers, was best received with the predominantly Welsh audience.
Though I loved Kitty Jay and Freedom Fields, I thought Seth's new material was a bit disappointing. Poor Man's Heaven seemed a bit patronising and the song about the stone circle a bit run-of-the-mill. Perhaps it's inevitable that later albums seem samey - it must be hard to be as innovative with each album.
That said, Seth still has a huge following for a folk artist, and has doubtlessly introduced folk music to a lot of younger people who would otherwise have regarded folk music as naff. More strength to his fiddling elbow!
Show of Hands at Pontardawe
Could be trouble here, I thought, Show of Hands playing in Wales on St Georges Day, in Kim Howells' constituency! Sure enough Steve didn't hold back and sang 'Roots', naming Mr Howells as the minister guilty of making the infamous derogatory remark about Somerset folk singers. Cheers to Steve from me, especially now that I am one, sort of! The locals loved the song though, it received a huge round of applause. 'Country Life' and 'Cutthroats, Crooks and Conmen' but especially 'Cousin Jack' the Cornish miner's song, seemed to strike a chord with the audience.
Show of Hands played one of the best sets I've heard from them from a long time, including most of my favourites. This may well be because they have released a 'Best Of' album - most of which I agree with. Trouble is, Steve has written so many good songs that it must have been very difficult to select a double album's worth! Miranda Sykes joined Steve and Phil later, playing Double Bass and added her beautiful voice in duet with Steve for 'Blue Cockade'. The band seemed in good spirits, telling some jokes which at least Patrick hadn't heard before - glad to see Steve looking happier, although he still must be very worried about his son, Jack, who is still in hospital with Leukaemia. Phil is doing a sponsored slim to raise money for Jack's hospital amongst other causes - sponsorship forms available at gigs.
Once more Steve and Phil raised the roof - they are getting quite a following in Pontardawe!
Show of Hands played one of the best sets I've heard from them from a long time, including most of my favourites. This may well be because they have released a 'Best Of' album - most of which I agree with. Trouble is, Steve has written so many good songs that it must have been very difficult to select a double album's worth! Miranda Sykes joined Steve and Phil later, playing Double Bass and added her beautiful voice in duet with Steve for 'Blue Cockade'. The band seemed in good spirits, telling some jokes which at least Patrick hadn't heard before - glad to see Steve looking happier, although he still must be very worried about his son, Jack, who is still in hospital with Leukaemia. Phil is doing a sponsored slim to raise money for Jack's hospital amongst other causes - sponsorship forms available at gigs.
Once more Steve and Phil raised the roof - they are getting quite a following in Pontardawe!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Narrowboating - a relaxing holiday?
We had our first proper holiday on Ripple last week, with the aim of taking her from Bosley Locks to the Lancaster via the Ribble Link. Things didn't start well as I'd twisted my knee while out walking, and struggled with opening locks, climbing onto the roof etc.
Patrick's parents met us at the top of Bosley Locks, having moved the boat there from its moorings at High Lane, and we had a good time going through the locks and admiring the beautiful scenery around there, including Bosley Cloud. A little creature ran in front of me, perhaps a bank vole, before changing it's mind and disappearing into a hedge. We moored at Congleton, near the excellent Queen's Head, which has a variety of unusual real ales, including Centurion's Ghost and Cottage Whippet (Dark Whippet?). I also had a very good Chicken Jalfrezi curry there. Then it was off to the Beartown Tap for some more good beer including one of my all time favourites, Kodiak Gold.
So far so relaxing but drama was to come. Wind speeds began to pick up and I made a hash of turning the corner at Hardings Wood Junction. As Patrick tried to rectify the mistake, backing towards the bridge, he shouted - and I noticed that the wooden tiller handle had snapped! There was a worring moment for me till I noticed his hand was OK and had only been grazed on one finger against the bridge.
Next stop was Sandbach, a market town with a surprisingly large number of pubs - we stopped for a pint of Robinson's Unicorn at the Market Tavern, with 4 other pubs within sight (as well as the interesting Stone Crosses), and pies at the local bakery. We also discovered an Armenian delicatessen and off-licence which boasted that it stocked every available whisky in the UK! We were given expresso and fruit juice as we pondered the vast range of spirits, beers and ciders before choosing Jura Superstition, Auchtentoshan 10-year old, Wentworth's Rampant Gryphon and Oatmeal Stout and Sheppys organic cider. We also got the world's strongest cider given free by the manager, who could see we appreciated our booze! We also couldn't resist a baclava-type dessert which we devoured back on the boat.
We moored overnight at Middlewich and dined at our favourite romantic spot, the Narrowboat - food as superb as ever. Next morning we bought a swanky Rosewood tiller handle for Ripple and headed off past the Anderton Lift to moor at Preston Brook, and visited the Tunnel Top (no real ale but good food).
The Bridgewater canal was a bit of a different experience, heading through the more genteel Cheshire villages, nice and wide but with less facilities for pleasure boats than the British Waterways canals. Another good stop at Grappenhall Village, very pretty with 2 lovely pubs - the Ram's Head and the Parr Arms. The route through Manchester was uneventful, apart from disturbing a stoat sitting on a discarded sofa (no doubt wishing for beer, telly and a ciggie!).
We met Ian and Toby at the Barton Swing Aqueduct, which duly swung, giving our guests an impressive sight at the start of their trip. Patrick got wery wery dwunk in Wigan - the moral of this story, never try to keep up with Ian drinking!
Ian and Toby's help proved invaluable as the wind speeds continued to pick up - the lock gates on the Rufford Branch were tricky, and the unusual paddles also took time to unlock with the one remaining anti-vandal key (keys detest Patrick and make their way away from him quickly and secretly). As soon at the boat slowed, it would ground itself on the far bank and refuse to budge. At one point it took both Ian and Patrick pulling on the centre rope to pull it off again. Patrick insisted on steering through the locks, as Ripple at 62ft long would only just fit. It was a relief to reach Tarleton, where we were reunited with Patrick's parents and the car.
Next morning we discovered that the previous night's crossings had been cancelled due to the high winds, so there was a long queue at the lock into the River Douglas. Ripple was right at the back, and went through the lock with a red narrowboat that we planned to follow. As soon as we were out of the lock Patrick realised just how strong the tidal pull was (the tide was against us). We made very slow progress down the river,on the right hand side away from the main pull of the tide, however the red boat was still in sight. When we turned into the Ribble, Ripple lurched alarmingly and people started to wonder if they could swim to the bank! However Patrick remained in control at the tiller, and we rounded the Asland Lamp successfully. Progress was painfully slow up the Ribble, with the winds directly against us, the tide turning and at one point hail started to come down. The red narrowboat soon disappeared out of sight. Patrick confessed later that he was quite stressed at this point - we were going at about 1 1/2 miles per hour and if we had started moving backwards we would have had to call for help. British Waterways called us whilst we were perhaps half a mile away to tell us that they were running out of water, and were closing the lock at Savick Brook. They told us to head for Preston Dock. My heart sank at this point, as the weather was getting worse if anything! Further up the Ribble the river noticeably narrowed and progress became slightly easier. The open lock gates at Preston Dock were a welcome sight! The staff at the Marina were very good to us - they let us moor in the lock itself as the marina itself was quite choppy, and gave us a key to the showers. Steam trains ran across the nearby swing bridge, to Patrick's Dad's delight. There was a nice pub nearby called the Waterfront, which had a carvery and a good pint of Taylor Landlord.
Next morning we had to hang about for high tide - then the lock keeper opened the top entrance and the swing bridge so that we could turn round in the basin (the lock was slightly too small at 65ft across). Then it was down the lock again and on to the Ribble, this time the weather was pleasant so that bit was quite easy! Once through the first lock on the Savick Brook we had to wait again for the tide to lower, so that Ripple could get under the bridges - but the brook was very narrow and twisty-turny, so that Ripple kept grounding in the middle as we steered round corners. We had to reverse up the 3 staircase-locks due to Ripple's length, which was again quite scary but Patrick managed well. Then at last we moored on the Lancaster Canal and prepared for Patrick's parents to take over. Poor old Patrick then had to drive all the way back from Preston to Bath, and our troubles were not over yet - Junction 21A was closed on the M6 so we had to do a tour of the Cheshire countryside. We finally arrived home about 11pm.
Glad I'm not working at the moment - I'd need another holiday to recover from that one!!
Patrick's parents met us at the top of Bosley Locks, having moved the boat there from its moorings at High Lane, and we had a good time going through the locks and admiring the beautiful scenery around there, including Bosley Cloud. A little creature ran in front of me, perhaps a bank vole, before changing it's mind and disappearing into a hedge. We moored at Congleton, near the excellent Queen's Head, which has a variety of unusual real ales, including Centurion's Ghost and Cottage Whippet (Dark Whippet?). I also had a very good Chicken Jalfrezi curry there. Then it was off to the Beartown Tap for some more good beer including one of my all time favourites, Kodiak Gold.
So far so relaxing but drama was to come. Wind speeds began to pick up and I made a hash of turning the corner at Hardings Wood Junction. As Patrick tried to rectify the mistake, backing towards the bridge, he shouted - and I noticed that the wooden tiller handle had snapped! There was a worring moment for me till I noticed his hand was OK and had only been grazed on one finger against the bridge.
Next stop was Sandbach, a market town with a surprisingly large number of pubs - we stopped for a pint of Robinson's Unicorn at the Market Tavern, with 4 other pubs within sight (as well as the interesting Stone Crosses), and pies at the local bakery. We also discovered an Armenian delicatessen and off-licence which boasted that it stocked every available whisky in the UK! We were given expresso and fruit juice as we pondered the vast range of spirits, beers and ciders before choosing Jura Superstition, Auchtentoshan 10-year old, Wentworth's Rampant Gryphon and Oatmeal Stout and Sheppys organic cider. We also got the world's strongest cider given free by the manager, who could see we appreciated our booze! We also couldn't resist a baclava-type dessert which we devoured back on the boat.
We moored overnight at Middlewich and dined at our favourite romantic spot, the Narrowboat - food as superb as ever. Next morning we bought a swanky Rosewood tiller handle for Ripple and headed off past the Anderton Lift to moor at Preston Brook, and visited the Tunnel Top (no real ale but good food).
The Bridgewater canal was a bit of a different experience, heading through the more genteel Cheshire villages, nice and wide but with less facilities for pleasure boats than the British Waterways canals. Another good stop at Grappenhall Village, very pretty with 2 lovely pubs - the Ram's Head and the Parr Arms. The route through Manchester was uneventful, apart from disturbing a stoat sitting on a discarded sofa (no doubt wishing for beer, telly and a ciggie!).
We met Ian and Toby at the Barton Swing Aqueduct, which duly swung, giving our guests an impressive sight at the start of their trip. Patrick got wery wery dwunk in Wigan - the moral of this story, never try to keep up with Ian drinking!
Ian and Toby's help proved invaluable as the wind speeds continued to pick up - the lock gates on the Rufford Branch were tricky, and the unusual paddles also took time to unlock with the one remaining anti-vandal key (keys detest Patrick and make their way away from him quickly and secretly). As soon at the boat slowed, it would ground itself on the far bank and refuse to budge. At one point it took both Ian and Patrick pulling on the centre rope to pull it off again. Patrick insisted on steering through the locks, as Ripple at 62ft long would only just fit. It was a relief to reach Tarleton, where we were reunited with Patrick's parents and the car.
Next morning we discovered that the previous night's crossings had been cancelled due to the high winds, so there was a long queue at the lock into the River Douglas. Ripple was right at the back, and went through the lock with a red narrowboat that we planned to follow. As soon as we were out of the lock Patrick realised just how strong the tidal pull was (the tide was against us). We made very slow progress down the river,on the right hand side away from the main pull of the tide, however the red boat was still in sight. When we turned into the Ribble, Ripple lurched alarmingly and people started to wonder if they could swim to the bank! However Patrick remained in control at the tiller, and we rounded the Asland Lamp successfully. Progress was painfully slow up the Ribble, with the winds directly against us, the tide turning and at one point hail started to come down. The red narrowboat soon disappeared out of sight. Patrick confessed later that he was quite stressed at this point - we were going at about 1 1/2 miles per hour and if we had started moving backwards we would have had to call for help. British Waterways called us whilst we were perhaps half a mile away to tell us that they were running out of water, and were closing the lock at Savick Brook. They told us to head for Preston Dock. My heart sank at this point, as the weather was getting worse if anything! Further up the Ribble the river noticeably narrowed and progress became slightly easier. The open lock gates at Preston Dock were a welcome sight! The staff at the Marina were very good to us - they let us moor in the lock itself as the marina itself was quite choppy, and gave us a key to the showers. Steam trains ran across the nearby swing bridge, to Patrick's Dad's delight. There was a nice pub nearby called the Waterfront, which had a carvery and a good pint of Taylor Landlord.
Next morning we had to hang about for high tide - then the lock keeper opened the top entrance and the swing bridge so that we could turn round in the basin (the lock was slightly too small at 65ft across). Then it was down the lock again and on to the Ribble, this time the weather was pleasant so that bit was quite easy! Once through the first lock on the Savick Brook we had to wait again for the tide to lower, so that Ripple could get under the bridges - but the brook was very narrow and twisty-turny, so that Ripple kept grounding in the middle as we steered round corners. We had to reverse up the 3 staircase-locks due to Ripple's length, which was again quite scary but Patrick managed well. Then at last we moored on the Lancaster Canal and prepared for Patrick's parents to take over. Poor old Patrick then had to drive all the way back from Preston to Bath, and our troubles were not over yet - Junction 21A was closed on the M6 so we had to do a tour of the Cheshire countryside. We finally arrived home about 11pm.
Glad I'm not working at the moment - I'd need another holiday to recover from that one!!
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Bath Folk Club - First Concert
Patrick and I are delighted to now have a Folk Club within walking distance, at the Widcombe Social Club at the foot of Widcombe Hill. As well as the fine music that's on offer they also sell real ale and chippy tea! What more could one ask.
The club has been set up by the VERY enthusiastic Lou and Marek, with a lot of help and support from a certain Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, who are based nearby. Of course they played a few songs before the main act, Crucible, came on - and gave a very powerful performance.
Crucible, a foursome from Sheffield, were also very good - a mixture of acapella singing, English and Celtic dance music and folk-rock numbers. Very good fiddles, bagpipes, guitar and melodeon, which the band also made use of at the jamming session before the performances started. Nancy and James joined the band for the last few numbers, which they'd rehearsed together aboard the Fagans' boat. I got up and danced at the end, along with Lou and friends!
Seems like the Bath Folk Club will be a young and fun venue (and there's not many English folk clubs you can say that about!!) so I'm looking forward to the next concert - a French folk band called Cyser.
The club has been set up by the VERY enthusiastic Lou and Marek, with a lot of help and support from a certain Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, who are based nearby. Of course they played a few songs before the main act, Crucible, came on - and gave a very powerful performance.
Crucible, a foursome from Sheffield, were also very good - a mixture of acapella singing, English and Celtic dance music and folk-rock numbers. Very good fiddles, bagpipes, guitar and melodeon, which the band also made use of at the jamming session before the performances started. Nancy and James joined the band for the last few numbers, which they'd rehearsed together aboard the Fagans' boat. I got up and danced at the end, along with Lou and friends!
Seems like the Bath Folk Club will be a young and fun venue (and there's not many English folk clubs you can say that about!!) so I'm looking forward to the next concert - a French folk band called Cyser.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Wedding Plans
I'm very excited today - I've bought a wedding dress! I can tell you I found it at Clifton Brides in Bath, and that it is a very unusual colour, but other than that my lips are sealed!!
I thought I'd discuss the flowers with our local florist today, but she wanted to know the exact colour of the dress, but I haven't got a swatch (that's a bit of the same material, not a kind of watch, for all you males out there). I did request a swatch so that the bridesmaids and pageboys will match (or at least tone well) but I've no idea when it will arrive.
We have already booked the venue (The West Barn, Bradford-on-Avon) and registrars, given our Notice at the Bath Registry Office, booked the Wedding Breakfast at the Swan Hotel in Bradford-on-Avon and the evening boat trip aboard the Barbara McLellen, which is owned by the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust. So the next things to organise will be flowers, photographer and car.
At the moment I'm having a small glass of Malmsey and some Easter egg to celebrate!
I thought I'd discuss the flowers with our local florist today, but she wanted to know the exact colour of the dress, but I haven't got a swatch (that's a bit of the same material, not a kind of watch, for all you males out there). I did request a swatch so that the bridesmaids and pageboys will match (or at least tone well) but I've no idea when it will arrive.
We have already booked the venue (The West Barn, Bradford-on-Avon) and registrars, given our Notice at the Bath Registry Office, booked the Wedding Breakfast at the Swan Hotel in Bradford-on-Avon and the evening boat trip aboard the Barbara McLellen, which is owned by the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust. So the next things to organise will be flowers, photographer and car.
At the moment I'm having a small glass of Malmsey and some Easter egg to celebrate!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Oysterband at Pontardawe
Strange to be back in South Wales again, especially for a folk gig! The staff at Pontardawe Arts Centre were really friendly and welcoming, and we met Jane, a friend from pre-divorce days, who hadn't met Patrick yet. She is from Swindon where the Oysterband were playing the following night, so she was going to two gigs in a row - sign of a true fan!
A pleasant surprise was that Dan Donnelly was playing support - he has stood in for Simon Friend of the Levellers before, and also writes some very good songs. His takeoff of David Gray went down well with the crowd, unlike at the gig in Narberth where David Gray comes from! Apparently David's brother was in the crowd and was ddim hapis, as they say in Wales.
The set was mainly from their latest album, Meet You There, with a few of the fan's favourites such as Native Son and Northern Lights thrown in. Mindyou the songs from the new album are, in my opinion, some of the finest they've written - I especially like The Flood and Bury Me Standing - and agree with the sentiments. The whole band descended into the mosh pit and sang and played acoustic IN the crowd for the encore, Put Out The Lights (on London City). We had a great view as we'd arrived quite early and bagged front spots! Another amazing experience courtesy of the Oysterband.
A pleasant surprise was that Dan Donnelly was playing support - he has stood in for Simon Friend of the Levellers before, and also writes some very good songs. His takeoff of David Gray went down well with the crowd, unlike at the gig in Narberth where David Gray comes from! Apparently David's brother was in the crowd and was ddim hapis, as they say in Wales.
The set was mainly from their latest album, Meet You There, with a few of the fan's favourites such as Native Son and Northern Lights thrown in. Mindyou the songs from the new album are, in my opinion, some of the finest they've written - I especially like The Flood and Bury Me Standing - and agree with the sentiments. The whole band descended into the mosh pit and sang and played acoustic IN the crowd for the encore, Put Out The Lights (on London City). We had a great view as we'd arrived quite early and bagged front spots! Another amazing experience courtesy of the Oysterband.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Egg Shopping
After doing the boring-but-necessary stuff like registering with a doctor and a dentist and searching the net for jobs, I wandered into Bath for easter egg shopping. Now sorted! Looking forward to Easter.
This picture made me laugh - I love Lolcats
This picture made me laugh - I love Lolcats
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Lancashire Hotpots at Telford's Wharf
We've recently been to see the Lancashire Hotpots down at Telford's Wharf in Chester. They sing comedy songs, mostly about technology and modern life in Lancashire, in broad Lancashire accents - Patrick is a big fan as both of his parents are from Lancashire.
We were somewhat frustrated at first, because Patrick thought the Telford's Wharf website had advertised the live music as starting at nine, whereas in fact the band didn't come on till 10.30pm. Still, the real ale at Telford's Wharf is delicious (I reccommend the Cheshire Cat) and the piped music was acceptable. The Lancashire Hotpots were on great form, they were having a really good time and so were we. Because Patrick and I had got there early we had a front row spot, and were happily dancing away and singing along. They played Patrick's favourites including 'Oh No, He's Gone Emo' and 'Chippy Tea', which he can't stop singing now, plus a few new ones such as 'The Chav Song' and 'Tha's Got For Get SatNav'.
We bought their album 'Never Mind the Hotpots' - Patrick can't stop playing it in the car! The only song I'm dubious about is 'Lancashire Town' - a modern take on clone towns in the North West, which ends with the singer moving to Coventry. Surely this will isolate the Hotpots' fan base of loyal Lancastrians? Move back, immediately!!!
All in all, a grand night out, and a good laugh too!
We were somewhat frustrated at first, because Patrick thought the Telford's Wharf website had advertised the live music as starting at nine, whereas in fact the band didn't come on till 10.30pm. Still, the real ale at Telford's Wharf is delicious (I reccommend the Cheshire Cat) and the piped music was acceptable. The Lancashire Hotpots were on great form, they were having a really good time and so were we. Because Patrick and I had got there early we had a front row spot, and were happily dancing away and singing along. They played Patrick's favourites including 'Oh No, He's Gone Emo' and 'Chippy Tea', which he can't stop singing now, plus a few new ones such as 'The Chav Song' and 'Tha's Got For Get SatNav'.
We bought their album 'Never Mind the Hotpots' - Patrick can't stop playing it in the car! The only song I'm dubious about is 'Lancashire Town' - a modern take on clone towns in the North West, which ends with the singer moving to Coventry. Surely this will isolate the Hotpots' fan base of loyal Lancastrians? Move back, immediately!!!
All in all, a grand night out, and a good laugh too!
Bath Life
Hi all
Finally I'm back on the internet again! As there's no phone line or wireless system in our rented flat here in Bath, I needed a mobile connection which the knackered old PC from Farnborough couldn't cope with. As it's essential to be online these days for job searching, Patrick bought me a Compaq Presario C500 laptop, which is fab, and only £275 ex-demo from a computer fair in Tottenham Court Road. He also bought a Vodaphone Mobile Connection which has good reception here - it only works at dial-up speed but it will get me by till we buy a house together and can get broadband again.
Before that, Patrick and I had visited the Terracotta Warriors at the British Museum - a fascinating exhibition. The scale of the First Emperor's tomb, the wealth and the insight into the ancient Chinese way of life was awesome. I had thought that the figures were of warriors only - but there were also musicians, birds, acrobats and even civil servants buried with the Emperor. The tomb was based on the Chinese idea of the Universe (as the Emperor considered himself ruler of the whole Universe!) included a river of mercury - scary! I bought a little kneeling archer as a souvenir.
The main reason for going into London was to meet up with Emma and Ting - Emma is my oldest friend that I'm still in contact with. We had a quick snack in a cafe nearby, then headed off to Queensway to try to get into a bowling alley, unsuccessfully! Then it was off to Chinatown for a real Chinese meal. It was great to see Emma and Ting again, swap stories about holidays and reminisce about school days again.
Finally I'm back on the internet again! As there's no phone line or wireless system in our rented flat here in Bath, I needed a mobile connection which the knackered old PC from Farnborough couldn't cope with. As it's essential to be online these days for job searching, Patrick bought me a Compaq Presario C500 laptop, which is fab, and only £275 ex-demo from a computer fair in Tottenham Court Road. He also bought a Vodaphone Mobile Connection which has good reception here - it only works at dial-up speed but it will get me by till we buy a house together and can get broadband again.
Before that, Patrick and I had visited the Terracotta Warriors at the British Museum - a fascinating exhibition. The scale of the First Emperor's tomb, the wealth and the insight into the ancient Chinese way of life was awesome. I had thought that the figures were of warriors only - but there were also musicians, birds, acrobats and even civil servants buried with the Emperor. The tomb was based on the Chinese idea of the Universe (as the Emperor considered himself ruler of the whole Universe!) included a river of mercury - scary! I bought a little kneeling archer as a souvenir.
The main reason for going into London was to meet up with Emma and Ting - Emma is my oldest friend that I'm still in contact with. We had a quick snack in a cafe nearby, then headed off to Queensway to try to get into a bowling alley, unsuccessfully! Then it was off to Chinatown for a real Chinese meal. It was great to see Emma and Ting again, swap stories about holidays and reminisce about school days again.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Last Day at Work
Oo, I'm getting all sniffly now! It will be my leaving presentation in a few minutes. Sad to leave as I've been with BRI for nearly 8 years, and made some very good friends. Keep in touch, folks!
Madiera Holiday
I have been on holiday in Madiera - my first holiday with Patrick. We had a very relaxing time, with plenty of room for spontanaety - there were things in the guidebooks we wanted to experience but we didn't plan every minute of every day, and we weren't trying to cram too much in.
The levada walks in Madiera are a must for anyone that enjoys hiking - but be warned, they are not all easy, level water channels! Some drop at quite a gradient so you can get rather out of breath trying to reach the source of a levada.
We found a couple in the mountains, graded 'moderate' by the Sunflower guide. We also did an excellent walk along Maderia's eastern peninsula. Photos will appear in the gallery but it could take quite some time, as I won't have a broadband internet connection for several months now!
We stayed at the San Pedro hotel in Garajau, which had an excellent restaurant, the Touricalo, just opposite, so we ate there most nights. I can recommend the Espetada (marinated beef on a skewer)! For a change we also ate out in Arsenio's in Funchal's old town, where we were serenaded by excellent Fado singers.
As for the Madiera wine - we had a great time at Blandy's Wine Lodge in Funchal! After the tour we were invited to taste 4 different kinds of Madiera, the Bual and Malmsey (medium-sweet and sweet) being our favourites. Of course we've brought a few bottles back with us! Funchal is great for a wet day (they do have them in Madiera, despite what the brochures say), it's a pretty town and there are some superb museums and galleries, as well as plenty of places to eat.
Madiera is a beautiful island with some lovely gardens and challenging walks, but there's not a lot to do for families or teenagers. Which is why it's nice and quiet for the older visitors (we were amongst the youngest at breakfast in the hotel)!
The levada walks in Madiera are a must for anyone that enjoys hiking - but be warned, they are not all easy, level water channels! Some drop at quite a gradient so you can get rather out of breath trying to reach the source of a levada.
We found a couple in the mountains, graded 'moderate' by the Sunflower guide. We also did an excellent walk along Maderia's eastern peninsula. Photos will appear in the gallery but it could take quite some time, as I won't have a broadband internet connection for several months now!
We stayed at the San Pedro hotel in Garajau, which had an excellent restaurant, the Touricalo, just opposite, so we ate there most nights. I can recommend the Espetada (marinated beef on a skewer)! For a change we also ate out in Arsenio's in Funchal's old town, where we were serenaded by excellent Fado singers.
As for the Madiera wine - we had a great time at Blandy's Wine Lodge in Funchal! After the tour we were invited to taste 4 different kinds of Madiera, the Bual and Malmsey (medium-sweet and sweet) being our favourites. Of course we've brought a few bottles back with us! Funchal is great for a wet day (they do have them in Madiera, despite what the brochures say), it's a pretty town and there are some superb museums and galleries, as well as plenty of places to eat.
Madiera is a beautiful island with some lovely gardens and challenging walks, but there's not a lot to do for families or teenagers. Which is why it's nice and quiet for the older visitors (we were amongst the youngest at breakfast in the hotel)!
Friday, February 08, 2008
Train Leaving Doo
Well, I'm now firmly ensconced in the student accommodation at work, for a month before I move to Bath, as I need to work my notice. Shortest commute ever, as the Cottage is just 30 seconds walk from the laboratory door. It's good to be out of Rectory Road but not as good as living with Patrick will be!
Made it into work dead on nine, with half a cup of coffee in me this morning. Boy am I hung over.
It was a brilliant night last night at the Home Cottage, I arrived at the pub at about 6pm after having done some shopping in Sainsburys. I had a pint of Youngs Bitter and a beef stir-fry which was on special offer at the pub to celebrate Chinese New Year - was just about to give up at 7 thinking no-one was coming when Andy turned up and bought me the last Double Chocolate Stout, and assured me Richard was also turning up, which he did a little later. The three of us had a really good chinwag (and I had 2 pints of Bombardier which was surprisingly good) till 9 when the pub quiz started and Nigel turned up, then the 4 of us decided to form a quiz team as it was free to enter...someone bought me a double whisky which finished me off! ‘Peter’s Pansies’ came bottom of the quiz teams but was a good laugh.
Made it into work dead on nine, with half a cup of coffee in me this morning. Boy am I hung over.
It was a brilliant night last night at the Home Cottage, I arrived at the pub at about 6pm after having done some shopping in Sainsburys. I had a pint of Youngs Bitter and a beef stir-fry which was on special offer at the pub to celebrate Chinese New Year - was just about to give up at 7 thinking no-one was coming when Andy turned up and bought me the last Double Chocolate Stout, and assured me Richard was also turning up, which he did a little later. The three of us had a really good chinwag (and I had 2 pints of Bombardier which was surprisingly good) till 9 when the pub quiz started and Nigel turned up, then the 4 of us decided to form a quiz team as it was free to enter...someone bought me a double whisky which finished me off! ‘Peter’s Pansies’ came bottom of the quiz teams but was a good laugh.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Decree Absolute
Found my Decree Absolute waiting for me after I returned from Chester/Marple visit last Sunday. It came almost by return of post since I requested it, amazingly quick considering how long every other legal process in the divorce seems to have taken! Patrick pointed out that it was a year to the day since he caught Kevin and Ugly holding hands in the CAMRA minibus, and guessed that their relationship was in danger of wrecking our marriage.
More later about Chester - too busy packing to do much blog updating at the moment! I'm moving out on February 6th :)
I had been to Chester before with Kevin and Keith, and remembered that I really liked it. We arrived by train in order to pick up my new (second-hand) Nissan Micra from Marple on Sunday, and took the taxi to the Telford's Wharf pub. Unfortunately it was music night and they were charging £4 admission. We quickly legged it across town to the excellent Bear and Billet instead, where we had some wonderful Cheshire Cat and Okells IPA, and also had fun with the Pringles dispenser!
The hotel was nice, Express by Holiday Inn was it's rather long-winded name, it was right by the racecourse/old Roman harbour with good views of the track. We had a good night's sleep then Patrick headed off for his freight meeting and I headed off for the sales! There were plenty of bargains in the beautiful two-tiered shops, trouble was I was rather broke, so I confined myself to a 60-litre Karrimor rucksack for £30, a gold coloured watch with my £40 worth of H. Samuel vouchers, and a skirt and top from Monsoon, £10 each.
Then it was back to the much quieter Telford's Wharf to watch the world go by with a nice pint of ale, and wait for Patrick's meeting to finish.
Raced across town to get the train to Frodsham where Patrick's friend Sharon lives, but missed it by one minute! Chester station is very bad for passenger information. Waited an hour for the next train, in an adequate pub nearby. Sharon had cooked us an excellent meal which she'd had to keep warm for us. After very pleasant evening we caught the last connecting train back to Marple - but the train from Oxford Road broke down just outside the station!! Finally got to Marple about 1am, very tired.
Chester was very enjoyable once more - I'm sure we will be back soon, probably by boat!
More later about Chester - too busy packing to do much blog updating at the moment! I'm moving out on February 6th :)
I had been to Chester before with Kevin and Keith, and remembered that I really liked it. We arrived by train in order to pick up my new (second-hand) Nissan Micra from Marple on Sunday, and took the taxi to the Telford's Wharf pub. Unfortunately it was music night and they were charging £4 admission. We quickly legged it across town to the excellent Bear and Billet instead, where we had some wonderful Cheshire Cat and Okells IPA, and also had fun with the Pringles dispenser!
The hotel was nice, Express by Holiday Inn was it's rather long-winded name, it was right by the racecourse/old Roman harbour with good views of the track. We had a good night's sleep then Patrick headed off for his freight meeting and I headed off for the sales! There were plenty of bargains in the beautiful two-tiered shops, trouble was I was rather broke, so I confined myself to a 60-litre Karrimor rucksack for £30, a gold coloured watch with my £40 worth of H. Samuel vouchers, and a skirt and top from Monsoon, £10 each.
Then it was back to the much quieter Telford's Wharf to watch the world go by with a nice pint of ale, and wait for Patrick's meeting to finish.
Raced across town to get the train to Frodsham where Patrick's friend Sharon lives, but missed it by one minute! Chester station is very bad for passenger information. Waited an hour for the next train, in an adequate pub nearby. Sharon had cooked us an excellent meal which she'd had to keep warm for us. After very pleasant evening we caught the last connecting train back to Marple - but the train from Oxford Road broke down just outside the station!! Finally got to Marple about 1am, very tired.
Chester was very enjoyable once more - I'm sure we will be back soon, probably by boat!
Friday, January 18, 2008
All Change
Well, the Financial Order for my divorce came through yesterday - Kevin now has 28 days to hand over the dosh, then I can move out of Rectory Road - fantastic! I've instructed my solicitors to apply for the Decree Absolute, will have to orgasinse a Divorce Party when it arrives!
I also handed in my notice at work, leaving on the 29th February. I will be a kept woman for a while till I find a job near to Bath where Patrick lives. Some of my colleagues were more surprised than others!
Also, my train friends said I must have a train leaving doo. So, parties all round soon :)
I also handed in my notice at work, leaving on the 29th February. I will be a kept woman for a while till I find a job near to Bath where Patrick lives. Some of my colleagues were more surprised than others!
Also, my train friends said I must have a train leaving doo. So, parties all round soon :)
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival
First festie of the year at Whittlesey near Peterborough. A man dresses as a bear using 5 stone of the finest straw, then dances through town (3 times - different routes), then the bear is burnt the next day (minus the dancer) to celebrate the New Year. These days the procession is accompanied by all sorts of Morris dancers (over 40 sides this year) and there are folk concerts and ceilidhs in the evenings and at lunchtime, also a couple of baby Straw Bears, I'm guessing inhabited by local schoolboys! There is also a blessing of the plough held at the local church.
We arrived on Friday night to attend the folk concert, which included Flossie Malavialle, whose powerful voice and quirky sense of humour had impressed me at Fareham and Gosport Folk Festival. She sang in both English and French, the French songs including Edith Piaf and Jaques Brel numbers, the English ones including Janis Joplin, as well as her own emotive material. She went dowm a storm with Patrick and the crowd at Whittlesey - the men in particular I'm guessing!
I recognised Pig Dyke Molly and the Ironmen (a Border side) from previous festivals. I took lots of photos of Pig Dyke Molly as their costumes are amazing and their dances are superb - almost like ballet. The Ironmen were very loud and fierce, frightening a small Molly in the audience. Their "My Uncle Billy" song probably didn't endear them to parents of small children either ;-) The Witchmen were another very entertaining Border side, nice spooky music and impressive dances. Ramrugge and Persephone clog teams were also very interesting - both danced with real bobbins presumably from defunct cotton mills.
Some liken Whittlesea Straw Bear to a pagan pub crawl, as all the Morris sides were scheduled to dance in the local pubs as well. Whittlesey is blessed with a large number of pubs - my favourite was the oddly named Letter B in which some teams were brave enough to do Rapper dancing (very fast sword dancing). However the best beer of the festival had to be the Fenland brewery's Straw Bear ale as served in the Ivy Leaf Club - delicious! Must look out for Fenland beers again.
Of course, as we were staying in Peterborough, I ouldn't resist dragging Patrick to the Oakham Brewery Tap (under threat - please support it!) and also Charters, which I thought must surely impress my man, being a very large Dutch barge with a real ale bar on the bottom floor and a Chinese restaurant on the top floor.
All in all a very interesting and relaxing weekend!
We arrived on Friday night to attend the folk concert, which included Flossie Malavialle, whose powerful voice and quirky sense of humour had impressed me at Fareham and Gosport Folk Festival. She sang in both English and French, the French songs including Edith Piaf and Jaques Brel numbers, the English ones including Janis Joplin, as well as her own emotive material. She went dowm a storm with Patrick and the crowd at Whittlesey - the men in particular I'm guessing!
I recognised Pig Dyke Molly and the Ironmen (a Border side) from previous festivals. I took lots of photos of Pig Dyke Molly as their costumes are amazing and their dances are superb - almost like ballet. The Ironmen were very loud and fierce, frightening a small Molly in the audience. Their "My Uncle Billy" song probably didn't endear them to parents of small children either ;-) The Witchmen were another very entertaining Border side, nice spooky music and impressive dances. Ramrugge and Persephone clog teams were also very interesting - both danced with real bobbins presumably from defunct cotton mills.
Some liken Whittlesea Straw Bear to a pagan pub crawl, as all the Morris sides were scheduled to dance in the local pubs as well. Whittlesey is blessed with a large number of pubs - my favourite was the oddly named Letter B in which some teams were brave enough to do Rapper dancing (very fast sword dancing). However the best beer of the festival had to be the Fenland brewery's Straw Bear ale as served in the Ivy Leaf Club - delicious! Must look out for Fenland beers again.
Of course, as we were staying in Peterborough, I ouldn't resist dragging Patrick to the Oakham Brewery Tap (under threat - please support it!) and also Charters, which I thought must surely impress my man, being a very large Dutch barge with a real ale bar on the bottom floor and a Chinese restaurant on the top floor.
All in all a very interesting and relaxing weekend!
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
New Year's Resolutions
1. They will not simply be last year's resolutions recycled!
2. I will eat more freshly prepared food. I'm trying to move away from ready meals and frozen pizzas.
3. I will get more exercise - walking, swimming and cycling.
4. I will look to the future and not dwell on past failed relationships
5. I will not eat more than one sweetie a day (difficult, as people keep bringing in their Christmas leftovers to work!)
6. I will only buy things that I need in the sales.
Well that will do for now, can't think of anything else for the moment...
2. I will eat more freshly prepared food. I'm trying to move away from ready meals and frozen pizzas.
3. I will get more exercise - walking, swimming and cycling.
4. I will look to the future and not dwell on past failed relationships
5. I will not eat more than one sweetie a day (difficult, as people keep bringing in their Christmas leftovers to work!)
6. I will only buy things that I need in the sales.
Well that will do for now, can't think of anything else for the moment...
Open Mic Night at Farnham Maltings
Was good to be back in the town of my forebears once more, nd in the Maltings where I've had lots of good times thanks to Darren Beech, the organiser of the folking.com events of a Wednesday. Who knows, when the ex and his woman (who attend every folk gig they possibly can) are on holiday I might sneak over again. On Friday the pair were well out of the way in Birmingham so Patrick and I headed for the open mic night and some very nice Triple fff Maltings Ale down in the Cellar Bar
I was very pleased to see Anthea Neads, an ex member of my choir, Guildford Vox. She has a stunning voice and writes lovely songs - we miss her at choir but obviously can't stand in the way of her solo career. Anthea was first on, and gave a really good performance. I especially liked 'Castle Town' a song about Guildford.
Other highlights included Anthea's friend Lesley Spiers a good guitarist. Sean Lewis seemed to be in a different league with his stunning Spanish Guitar playing and soulful songs (annoyingly, he doen't seem to have a website, or I'd put a link in!). Harbour, a folk band from Farnham, were very enjoyable, I'll be looking out for them in the future. Their fiddle player told a rather rude joke though!
All in all a good night out - despite the inevitable Farnham Maltings false fire alarms, which always happen when it's hissing with rain...
I was very pleased to see Anthea Neads, an ex member of my choir, Guildford Vox. She has a stunning voice and writes lovely songs - we miss her at choir but obviously can't stand in the way of her solo career. Anthea was first on, and gave a really good performance. I especially liked 'Castle Town' a song about Guildford.
Other highlights included Anthea's friend Lesley Spiers a good guitarist. Sean Lewis seemed to be in a different league with his stunning Spanish Guitar playing and soulful songs (annoyingly, he doen't seem to have a website, or I'd put a link in!). Harbour, a folk band from Farnham, were very enjoyable, I'll be looking out for them in the future. Their fiddle player told a rather rude joke though!
All in all a good night out - despite the inevitable Farnham Maltings false fire alarms, which always happen when it's hissing with rain...
First Footer
Happy New Year everyone!
I've had a really good Christmas, very busy, visiting various friends and family members. I spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with my parents, travelling up from Patrick's flat in Bath which is not far away from their house in Dorset. My sister was also there, always good to see Shirl. The mantle fell to Patrick to cook the Christmas meal, and he made an excellent job of it - his baked mushroom and stuffing starter is one to be noted for the future! The Waitrose turkey roll was also lovely and succulent.
Had a fantastic walk on Boxing Day with Pam and Chris - Patrick led the walk around Ham Hill Country Park and Montacute village in ideal walking weather, with some glorious views, plenty of historical interest and a good real ale pub, the Prince of Wales, at the end!
Then it was off to Marple for New Year to stay with Patrick's parents, and to do more work on the narrowboat. The new seats for the front had been cut and needed some minor adjustments before being painted and secured. I continued with my job of painting the bathroom. The bad news was, we found that Ripple's 3 batteries fail to hold any charge overnight so they will need replacing. And narrowboat batteries are expensive.
Good whisky and good company on New Year's Eve - as well as Patrick's Mum and Dad, his Auntie Vera and friend Irvin (whose moorings Ripple stays on) stayed up with us till five to midnight, when I got sent out of the house with a slice of bread, a jar of salt, a narrowboat made out of coal and a glass of whisky. I then had to be the 'first footer' back into the house in the New Year, as the darkest person in the house (although female)! It's supposedly a Scottish tradition but it looks like it's found it's way a little further south.
Patrick and I had time to spend one last night together in Dorking before each heading back to work and our (for now) separate abodes. Roll on the day when we can finally live together...
I've had a really good Christmas, very busy, visiting various friends and family members. I spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with my parents, travelling up from Patrick's flat in Bath which is not far away from their house in Dorset. My sister was also there, always good to see Shirl. The mantle fell to Patrick to cook the Christmas meal, and he made an excellent job of it - his baked mushroom and stuffing starter is one to be noted for the future! The Waitrose turkey roll was also lovely and succulent.
Had a fantastic walk on Boxing Day with Pam and Chris - Patrick led the walk around Ham Hill Country Park and Montacute village in ideal walking weather, with some glorious views, plenty of historical interest and a good real ale pub, the Prince of Wales, at the end!
Then it was off to Marple for New Year to stay with Patrick's parents, and to do more work on the narrowboat. The new seats for the front had been cut and needed some minor adjustments before being painted and secured. I continued with my job of painting the bathroom. The bad news was, we found that Ripple's 3 batteries fail to hold any charge overnight so they will need replacing. And narrowboat batteries are expensive.
Good whisky and good company on New Year's Eve - as well as Patrick's Mum and Dad, his Auntie Vera and friend Irvin (whose moorings Ripple stays on) stayed up with us till five to midnight, when I got sent out of the house with a slice of bread, a jar of salt, a narrowboat made out of coal and a glass of whisky. I then had to be the 'first footer' back into the house in the New Year, as the darkest person in the house (although female)! It's supposedly a Scottish tradition but it looks like it's found it's way a little further south.
Patrick and I had time to spend one last night together in Dorking before each heading back to work and our (for now) separate abodes. Roll on the day when we can finally live together...
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