The Kidderminster Beer Festival 2024

The Beer Festival bandwagon has taken a while to get moving in 2024 but is steadily gaining momentum courtesy of visits to Hereford and Wolverhampton during the summer, followed by the trio of Tamworth, Shrewsbury and Codsall once autumn leaves started to fall. Next up is a repeat visit to the Kidderminster event held once again in the shadows of the Aggborough football stadium...

- Kidderminster Station Frontage -

Trip Log: Saturday 9th November 2024 and a persistent blanket of anticyclonic gloom (not a weather term I'd heard of until this last week) has camped across the West Midlands skies for what seems like an age. Things may be very grey but at least it's dry as I make my way over to Kidderminster via Smethwick Galton Bridge. I know I'll be struggling to get decent pictures because of the overcast conditions but that won't stop me trying a few snapshots of Kiddy's twin stations, i.e. the mainline stop and the adjacent Severn Valley Railway terminus. 

- GWR Clock in the Severn Valley Booking Hall -

Talking of all things Severn Valley, they aren't running a timetable today but the concourse and museum are open to visitors so I can scout around in the booking hall looking for interesting artefacts. One GWR-era clock is a good start and some memorial wreaths have been laid out too, whilst three large bags of glittery tinsel suggest their Christmas decorations will be going up imminently. Period advertisements for Lloyd's News and Webb's Seeds (the latter being perfect for growing prized potatoes apparently) add to the bygone charm while volunteers in oily overalls cheerfully bid me good morning en route to their locomotive preserving activities.

- The East Terrace -

After a few years at the Town Hall, Kidderminster Beer Festival switched venues in 2023 to be hosted at the Kidderminster Harriers Social & Supporters Club; I was impressed with the set-up twelve months ago hence being keen to return today. Hoo Road soon has me homing in on Aggborough where preparations are underway for the match against Farsley Celtic later this afternoon (Harriers would win that 1-0 thanks to a goal from Ben Beresford). I'm here for the beer of course although a picture or two of the ground won't hurt, especially with the East Terrace having a rusty corrugated throwback appearance. 

- The Festival Kit -

As was the case last year, the festival admission package costs £15 and the ale action is mainly focused upon the large function room once I've been assigned a green wristband. My opening half is of Green Duck's 'Sitting Duck', a quality golden ale from Stourbridge's finest. Some of the darker stouts and porters have already sold out - those are the perils of attending these things on the Saturday session - so I progress through RCH's 'East Street Cream' (a 5% premium bitter with chestnut tones) followed by Bewdley's 'Sunshine'. The last of those means I have now seen some sunshine today after all, and proves a nice 3.8% zingy session beer.

- Cob and Reading Material -

The stage is being set for a Morris dancing demonstration of some description as I shift my focus onto the cider offering. 21 tipples of an apple or pear persuasion are available which is plenty to be going at; I just try two of them, namely Heck's 'Slack-Ma-Girdle' and Barbourne's 'Major Jane'. Both of these are listed as dry ciders and they have a certain tartness that tests out my tongue's powers of resilience but I find myself growing to like them with every passing sip. A cheese and onion cob for lunch is accompanied by reading matter in the form of Pint Taken, the Worcestershire CAMRA newsletter which I always enjoy perusing.

- The Land Oak -

With five halves quaffed and all tokens spent, I do my usual trick of seeking out a previously unvisited local establishment to round off the afternoon. My choice this year is the Land Oak on Birmingham Road, a corporate Marston's roadhouse I must have passed countless times during caravan rides to Stourport or cricketing journeys towards Worcester. It's a longstanding landmark, built in the 1930s I believe when the Chester Road was widened, and is serving a fairly standard combination of Wainwright, Hobgoblin and Banks's Amber. Although done out inside, I quite like the zigzagging chimney breast and dedicated games area, plus it seems popular enough with local families. With that I hustle on back to Kidderminster Station, ears primed for Molineux goalflashes as Wolves secure their first Premier League victory of the season against Southampton. Three points, a pub tick and a fun festival = a great few hours!

A Scarborough Story

The bracing breezes of the North Yorkshire coast are murmuring to us as Stephen and I spend a few days in Scarborough. Mr Beardsmore will be celebrating a big birthday over the coming days so we've booked a coach holiday getaway in order to celebrate...

- Scarborough Cricket Club -

Our story begins on Monday 28th October 2024 with the journey north, being picked up from Wolverhampton's Faulkland Street coach station at half past ten. Daish's Coaches are our company of choice for this particular holiday and their Yorkshire offering is the Esplanade Hotel in Scarborough's South Cliff district, perched high on the headland overlooking the seafront gardens and the town centre. After a steady journey up via the M18 and A614, we arrive circa half past four with time to spare before our evening meal. One Scarborough location we're keen to see above all others is the local cricket club on North Marine Road; Warwickshire were due to play there in 2020 but the Covid pandemic put paid to that, so we hope that the fixture list will give us another festival billing here before too long.

- St Mary's at Dusk -

Evidence of Scarborough's rich and varied history is very much apparent, from the craggy ruins of its medieval castle to its importance as a fishing port and subsequent growth as a Victorian seaside resort. Although darkness is setting in rapidly now that the clocks have been put back, we navigate our way around North Bay to find St Mary's Church and then inspect the quayside, a curious mixture of penny arcades, hot dog models and moored up trawlers. Mealtime at the Esplanade allows us to make the acquaintance of our fellow guests before we pick out a couple of evening drinking options courtesy of the Lord Rosebery (Scarborough's Wetherspoons as named after a former Prime Minister and serving £1.99 discount ales on a Monday) followed by the Cask Inn (a community pub and jazz venue under threat of closure). 

- Blands Cliff Mural -

To Tuesday 29th October 2024 and our first full day of North Yorkshire investigations. I'm up bright and early to see more of Scarborough's seafront attractions, chief among which is the cast iron elegance of the Cliff Bridge as erected in 1827. Its duck egg blue railings lead neatly on towards the Grand Hotel and an intriguing Victorian tramway operation which comes in handy given the amount of steps one would otherwise need to climb. I then spy an artistic treat on Blands Cliff in the form of an extended set of murals all along the length of a steep cobbled slope. Apparently these were painted by various groups of local creatives between 2001 and 2004 as part of a regeneration initiative. 

- Class 170 train at Bridlington -

Mr B and I have nominated Bridlington as our preferred Tuesday destination hence - after a decent Daish's breakfast - we make use of Northern Rail's 'Duo' deal which gives discounted tickets for two people travelling together. The train ride to Brid passes through Seamer, Filey and Hunmanby, taking just shy of forty minutes. I'd not been to Bridlington for the best part of thirty years but it remains a perennial East Riding favourite for holiday-goers and daytrippers. The railway station retains buffet signage and chiselled booking office lettering, while there are sprawling beaches either side of the main harbour.

- Meeting a Bridlington Puffin -

Our seafront stroll takes us firstly out by the local leisure centre and then back along the pier, finding the 'Gansey Girl' sculpture paying tribute to the local knitting tradition undertaken by families of fishermen who would craft thick sweaters to keep their men warm out at sea. Two contrasting drinking establishments are next for our attention, although sadly my preferred pick - the Three B's micropub, in the running for CAMRA's National Pub of the Year award - doesn't open on Tuesdays. The Moon steps into the breach instead, serving up a liquorice tinged nice pint of Aitcheson's Endike Black before we test out the Bridbrewer & Taproom bar which brews all of its own ales on the premises - I can vouch for the Trick or Treacle porter!

- The Cobbler's Arms -

An ongoing police incident has decimated the afternoon timetable on the Scarborough to Sheffield branch line although we do drop reasonably lucky (given the wider disruption) in catching a train back to Filey. Knowing that I once spent a family holiday at the Crows Nest caravan park, I had anticipated forgotten Filey memories suddenly flooding my mind but in truth not much seemed familiar apart from Cargate Hill as the main approach route to the beach. Stephen is pleased to get acquainted with an 8ft tall trawlerman whilst I'm equally as excited to track down the Cobbler's Arms, a dog-friendly micropub based in a former shoe shop on Union Street. Here I get sniffed out by a docile whippet when partaking of Wantsum Imperium, a solid Best Bitter brewed using Kentish hops.  

- X93 to Whitby -

With the train service still heavily impacted by delays, we end up catching the bus back to our hotel and the same mode of transport also comes up trumps for our Whitby Wednesday. The 30th October is Stephen's actual birthday so it seems highly appropriate to go all gothic for the occasion, although we do resist any instruction to wear black clothing. The X93 route is a long distance service linking Scarborough with Middlesbrough via Robin Hood's Bay, Whitby and Guisborough; operators Arriva are applying the capped £2 single fares so we settle on the top deck for a scenic journey which contains more than its fair share of hilly bits with tight twists and turns. We can see Whitby Abbey on the horizon as we near the town's bus station.

- The view from Whitby's West Pier -

Given Whitby's literary links to Dracula and its longstanding support for goth culture, the town really comes into its own at this time of year. The lead up to Halloween and the town's Goth Weekend in early November mean there is an extra spookiness in the air, which explains the plethora of spiders, witches and pumpkins at almost every turn. We nip our way along East Terrace to see Captain Cook's Memorial Statue (unceremoniously topped with a very brazen seagull) then promenade along the West Pier in all its planked glory. We've been enjoying a fine week weather wise but the overcast conditions only add to the effect here, ensuring we are seeing Whitby's unique rugged charm without the sugarcoating sunshine can bring.

- St Mary's, Whitby -

No visit to Whitby is ever complete with a look around the eastern half of the town where the harbour is equally as beguiling on the far side of the River Esk estuary. One particular act of pilgrimage we must make is to ascend the famous 199 Steps up to St Mary's Church and the mournful remains of Whitby Abbey, even if we're far from being the only ones making the notorious climb. My long legs cope with the exertion reasonably easily but Stephen doesn't enjoy the return walk down the cobbled lane much at all - he is getting older though so I must show some sympathy!!! On the pubs front we're spoiled for choice really but I'm more than happy to try out the Plough (a Samuel Smith's oasis of calm on Baxtergate wherein I sample the 3.4% Dark Mild) and the Waiting Room, a compact bar housed within the railway station.

- Scarborough Spa -

The week is whizzing by at a rate of knots and Thursday 31st October is now upon us with the promise of Pickering. The morning light across Scarborough Bay is utterly gorgeous so I'm out early with my camera again trying to do the place justice, focusing on The Spa conferencing and entertainment venue as designed by the architect Sir Joseph Paxton. I can well imagine how it would have been highly fashionable to drink the spa waters here; apparently the Prince of Wales would have been a frequent guest during its Victorian heyday. The accompanying South Cliff Gardens zigzag their way across the piece and I enjoy getting zooms of the multicoloured beach huts further out towards White Nab.

- Pickering, St Peter & St Paul -

And so to Pickering we proceed, making use of the number 128 bus service as run by East Yorkshire. The full route continues to Helmsley but the hour-long bit we get to savour is an all time classic ride taking in several stunning villages such as Snainton and Hutton Buscel. On his part, Stephen gets excited about Thornton-le-Dale because Mathewson's car auctions is based here (as seen on the Bangers and Cash television series). Alighting on Eastgate, our initial Pickering perambulations cover Smiddy Head, the Market Place and the Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul. I have fond memories of staying in the town twenty years ago and it hasn't changed all that much, a nice skip down family holiday memory lane. 

- Departure time at Pickering -

Pickering serves as the inland eastern terminus of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a preserved heritage line which gained added popularity due to appearing on 'Heartbeat' for many years. Originally opening in 1836, the railway became a victim of the Beeching Cuts in the mid 1960s before commencing its current charitable status in the 1970s; more recently it has been possible to extend services beyond Grosmont to terminate once again at Whitby. I loved Pickering Station in 2004 and it's equally as enchanting now with the scent of coal smoke on the breeze and a guard's whistle pre-empting the next locomotive's departure. 

- Anne Bronte's Grave -

Two Pickering watering holes take our fancy whilst we're here, namely the White Swan (a food-focused coaching inn serving Black Sheep Bitter) and the Bay Horse (a bulge-fronted Market Place mainstay where I try the Bradfield Farmer's Blonde). The 128 shows up early for our return ride to Scarborough, meaning we're well placed to track down Anne Bronte's Grave within St Mary's Churchyard - the youngest member of the Bronte family, Anne died aged 29 but her legacy lives on in the novels Agnes Grey and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. Our final Scarborough evening allows time for a couple more pints, one at the Frigate micropub as it nears its second birthday - only the twelve(!) Lilley's ciders available here - and the other at the Leeds Arms tucked away in the Old Town with its gallery of fishing memorabilia. Come Friday 1st November we're homeward bound for the West Midlands once more but it has been a lovely few days away with many happy returns to Mr Beardsmore. Cheers!

WME Flickr Focus - October 2024

Watch out Wolverhampton! Back off Birmingham! Black Country beware! October's photostream updates have seen the immediate West Midlands galleries resoundingly edged out in favour of arrivals from the surrounding shire counties. Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire, it's your time to shine...

Casting my mind back over years of Flickr happenings, I'm struggling to think of a month when the additions have been so lopsidedly provided by these not-so-noisy neighbours. Yes there are occasions when Exploration Extra rules the roost or Staffordshire comes strongly to the fore but this recent pattern does seem unprecedented. The upshot is that the West Midlands Exploration photostream continues its healthy march towards 7,500 pictures.

So WME Worcestershire, what have you been shouting so much about? A cacophony of Kidderminster is what I detect, aided by some musings from the Severn Valley Railway station (Birmingham Mail banners, period lamps and even a gruesomely green Halloween witch). It hasn't all been railway-related by any means, not with the Boars Head and Bear & Wolf vying for pub attention, not forgetting a Mortgage Station ghost sign from Colonial Mutual Insurance.

WME Warwickshire has made itself heard loud and clear too, all thanks to a load of Leamington Spa snapshots encompassing shell mosaics, platform views and a trio of representatives from the Windmill Inn on Tachbrook Road. The Builders Arms, Cricketers Arms (with ornate stained glass skylight) and Jet (altogether less glamorous by comparison) ensure that the pub quota is suitably beefed up beyond that Windmill threesome. 

As for WME Shropshire, my concentration has been completely on Kemberton, that small unassuming village just outside Shifnal. Springtime leaves, a Millennium map, a church lamp and the Masons Arms all combine to raise the numbers, assisted by a 'No HGVs' warning sign and the local parish noticeboard. Sticking with Shropshire (sort of), WME Telford & Wrekin tickles its tonsils courtesy of Jackfield Bridge and some Ironbridge insertions, namely noting Newbridge Road and the Golden Ball Inn.

I won't pretend that my main West Midlands constituents have been totally starved of the limelight. WME Birmingham did collect Kings Norton road signs and the Twin Towers pub from Ladywood (an Ansells relic), while WME Wolverhampton found enough stage time to admire Lady Wulfrun's statue. WME Solihull nabbed an NHS tribute from the Windleaves Road shops near Smiths Wood, meaning WME Staffordshire brings up the rear with its Landywood landings and a couple of BCN markers/bollards from the Lichfield Canal. Until November, enjoy the photos!

A Telford Town Park Tour

Covering over 450 acres, Telford Town Park is one of the jewels within the Telford and Wrekin Borough area and has even won national titles to go with its Green Flag status. I've been visiting the park on and off since childhood, when we used to have family days out clambering over Malinslee Fort or testing our balance on the adventure play equipment. With plenty of industrial heritage to investigate, I summon Stephen for a leisurely stroll towards Stirchley and Hinkshay...

- Commemorating the Coalbrookdale Coalfield -

It's Friday 18th October 2024 and I meet Mr Beardsmore aboard the number 891 bus, a route which nowadays is operated by Banga Buses but was historically a Midland Red concern until Arriva withdrew their service. The £2 single fare price cap applies for a bargain journey via Albrighton, Cosford and Shifnal before we set down at the revamped Telford Bus Station circa quarter past eleven. Ignoring the charms of the New Look or H&M stores, we sashay through Southwater and pitch straight into Town Park proper, eyeing up a bright red pitwheel designed to remember those who worked on the Coalbrookdale Coalfield. 

- Telford Veterans Trail -

More moments of reflection can be gleaned over by the Queen Elizabeth II Arena (itself a sunken grassy bowl which can host open air events for up to 12,000 people). The Telford Veterans Trail comprises a series of mounted plaques snaking their way out from the town's War Memorial; together they aim to record the active service records of local personnel across all of the Armed Forces, both in the First and Second World Wars and more recent conflicts. After pausing for pictures and to pay our respects, we venture out near the Amphitheatre which seems to be in urgent need of running repairs overlooking Randlay Pool.

- Stirchley Chimney -

Accompanied by disconcertingly ghostly groaning noises emanating from the Wonderland themed attraction, we pick out the path passing between bodies of water on the eastern flank of the park. Randlay Pool is the largest of the constituent pools and was constructed to supply water to a former brickworks, whilst nearby Blue Pool has a similarly industrial origin having been the quarrying site used by the same firm (gaining its name from the underlying clay minerals which give the pool a distinctive blue colour, especially in summer). Probably the most obvious clue to the area's manufacturing past is the towering presence of Stirchley Chimney, although Stephen and I don't spot it until the very last second because it is well screened by surrounding foliage. Erected in 1873, the chimney along with associated blast furnace remains are currently opened for occasional educational visits.

- St James's Church -

Beyond the chimney, we pass the scarrings of disused slag heaps to reach Grange Pool in Town Park's south-eastern corner. At this point we detour off to investigate Stirchley Village (an older settlement which considerably predates the New Town estate which also holds the Stirchley name). A cluster of amenities would have seen a post office, butchers shop, pub - the Rose & Crown, still seemingly trading but not open on this Friday lunchtime - and St James's Church all bunched together. The latter landmark is cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust and has some 12th century Norman architectural elements. 

- Stephen at Stirchley Platform -

Continuing along Stirchley Lane, we reach the Silkin Way leisure footpath which follows the course of a disused railway line (namely the branch that connected Wellington with Coalport) and is named in tribute to Lewis Silkin, the Minister responsible for the New Towns Act in the 1960s Labour Government. Evidence of the route's transport provenance is apparent in the form of Dawley and Stirchley Station where the platform remains have been restored with the help of community grant funding. Passenger services ceased here in May/June 1952 although freight operations (mainly involving coal) persisted until 1964 after which the line closed.

- The Three Crowns -

The lack of activity at the aforementioned Rose & Crown means our next best option for a refreshment stop is the Three Crowns on Hinkshay Road, flirting with the edges of Dawley. This is a long-time Marston's boozer standing side-on to the lane and presumably given the brewery's wet-led marketing makeover blueprint - cue barrel emblems and tiled diagrams of the beer-making process. My hopes of a quality pint of cask ale are thwarted when all of the handpulls are out of use so a Thatcher's Gold cider has to suffice instead. Parking ourselves on a tall table, we natter about cricketing capitulations (a theme of the entire summer) while keeping half an eye on some ladies tennis from the Ningbo Open. One amusing feature is the parade of rubber ducks lining the bartop, from mermaid specimens to sailors, Scottish saltires and even a black punk rubber duck with a well-styled mohican - what splendid fun!

- Telford Hornets Rugby Club -

Resuming our Town Park trail, more of Hinkshay Road has us heading northwards in the general direction of Dark Lane car park. I walked this section back in June 2008 when the White Hart pub was just about still standing (albeit in a very tumbledown condition) but that old hostelry has long since vacated the scene, replaced by the new housing of Jerry Rails Avenue and Ever Ready Crescent. The next notable feature for our attention is the Telford Hornets rugby ground complete with well-appointed clubhouse and several training pitches; the club competes in the Counties 1 Midlands West (North) Division - quite a mouthful! 

- A Wonderland Welcome -

Our loop has almost come full circle back to Meeting Point House although we are briefly lured across to the Exotic Zoo and Wonderland main entrance by the combined presence of the startled White Rabbit and grinning Cheshire Cat. We're a little too old for either attraction's target audience so we instead convene in the Wrekin Giant (a Hungry Horse establishment over at Southwater) for a gammon lunch with bonus puddings. Further cricketing discussions are interspersed with previewing the Wolves vs Manchester City match - we don't hold out much hope of a home win - and that's our Town Park trip done and dusted. The whole walk was around four miles in total, giving us a great insight into Telford's past - cheers!

Lost Pubs from the WME Archives #36

As much as I enjoy putting together my Lost Pubs postings, they always carry an air of melancholy that the establishments concerned aren't still pulling pints and dispensing good honest hospitality. This next selection have all been plucked from the loose assemblage of areas we know as Sandwell...

- Royal Oak, Greets Green -

We'll get started on Whitehall Road between Great Bridge and Greets Green from whence the Royal Oak used to grace us with its presence. Very much a West Bromwich Albion stronghold, the pub had a pleasing cottagey appearance with hints of thin beams and a community local emphasis. It sadly suffered an ignominious ending involving fire damage and partial demolition until the remainder of the building was ultimately flattened along with the adjoining property.

- Hawthorn Tavern, Harvills Hawthorn -

Next up is the Hawthorn Tavern which was positioned towards the top end of Dial Line serving the residents of Harvills Hawthorn and Hill Top. Mr D9 and I paid this a Hub Marketing visit back in August 2011 when it felt like it was already on its last legs; any boozer which has to serve cans rather than draught beer never lasts much longer in our experience. The building still stands having seemingly been converted into private accommodation.

- Olde Bulls Head, Oldbury -

Our third terminated tavern takes us into the centre of Oldbury for a mention of Ye Olde Bulls Head, a Birmingham Street boozer next to the Market Place alleyway. I can't remember much about this one other than it often seemed to be promoting some kind of happy hour discount; since closing the premises were taken over by Bairstow Eves Estate Agents, more recently changing its name to Innovate but still in the business of selling houses. 

- Old Furnace, Old Hill -

Some pubs look very inviting and others seem best avoided, whereby I'd probably put Old Hill's Old Furnace in the latter of those two categories. I'm sure it was a handsome enough place in its heyday but I can't recall it ever having an appealing appearance as far as I was concerned, which may explain why the Waterfall further up the hill always got my custom instead. There has been talk of clearing the site for development - shops or residential - although nothing seems to have transpired as yet and the place is becoming an eyesore.

- George Inn, Ryders Green -

Last but not least comes this bygone boozer from the back end of West Bromwich, namely the George Inn on Phoenix Street (kind of mid-way between Ryders Green and Swan Village). As with the Old Furnace, this was one I was always intent on swerving even though it might have served up a record-busting cheap pint for the Hub Marketing spreadsheets. Situated near the Robinson Brothers chemical works, it is now a house with a car wash on the side. 

The Stoke Sojourn 2024

We've reached that time of year when I attempt to plug any holes in my annual trip compendium by targeting areas as yet unvisited. One of 2024's most glaring gaps is The Potteries so I've got my eyes firmly fixed on Stoke, the city that always delivers special adventures. Will the day be able to match the high standards set by Penkhull, Hartshill, Burslem et al?

- Glebe Street Bridge -

Stoke on Trent railway station is my starting point, noting that the road outside is being dug up amidst a mass of one-way restrictions while the North Stafford Hotel opposite is in the process of being renovated. Picking my way past the ongoing Goods Yard development - a Capital & Centric scheme which uses Levelling Up funding - I scurry down the steps onto the canalside to commence my Trent & Mersey mission. Bridge 113 seems familiar on the side of Grindeys Solicitors (within shouting distance of Stoke Civic Centre) but anything beyond that counts as completely fresh towpath territory...

- Trent & Mersey Scenery -

An immediate discovery is Jones & Shufflebottom's plumbing and bathroom works in all their corrugated glory; the firm is known as Jones & Shuffs for short and they have neighbouring plants both boasting white block lettering. There is then a ramshackle moorings base near Whieldon Road as I flirt with the fringes of Fenton - 'Rock and Roll Lady' is one of the boats residing here. The bridges descend numerically and there are hints of street art, some of the tags and characters being recognisable from Wolverhampton. Bridge 109 is a blue-railinged tunnel beside a huge waste incinerator plant with its beige concrete chimney towering above. Just a short distance further and I'm in prime position to exit for the footballing feature I've been promising myself, Bridge 108a leading directly onto Stoke City FC’s hinterlands. 

- The Bet365 Stadium -

Given that I'd previously been to Vale Park with Mr D9 back in 2015, this visit ensures I've achieved Stoke sporting parity by checking out the home of The Potters. It's an impressive arena, purpose built in a self contained site near Trentham Lakes that's probably a far cry from the old Victoria Ground. Some of the access gates are only in use on matchdays but I can use the main driveway off the A50 to eye up the stands, ticket office and club shop. I recall this being known as the Britannia Stadium when it originally opened in the 1990s but the Coates family association ensures the links to betting sponsorship nowadays.

- Gordon Banks Statue -

A general wander along nearby approach roads reveals a tribute to Gordon Banks with 1966 trophy aloft and goalkeeping gloves in hand; as resemblances go this is a very good likeness, focusing on his proud England achievements rather than anything at club level (he served Stoke with distinction between 1967 and 1973). Had I done my research properly, I would also have sought out the Stanley Matthews Memorial Statue further around the stadium perimeter but I'll have to save that for a future treat. I do however manage to get pictures of the adjacent Trentham Lakes Harvester restaurant by way of consolation.

- A Michelin Marker -

Delighted with that stadium recce, I retrace my steps back over the Trent & Mersey Canal and continue on towards Stoke Town. Signs for Sideway accompany me across the busy arterial roads and around Michelin Roundabout, where mini Michelin Man figurines are a telltale clue that I'm outside the global tyre company's main UK headquarters. The River Trent is similarly present and correct with its own associated footpath so I make a mental note to investigate that for its future walking potential.

- The Plough Motel, Boothen -

Campbell Road is my route into Boothen, one of those Stoke suburbs that resonates with footballing history. The Plough Motel is still standing but apparently disused - a nice 1920s building with an ornamental name cartouche - while the Home Cooking chip shop opposite would've been right up my street were I not eating later. The Plough might have expired but there is a hostelry close at hand with plenty of life to it, the Gardeners Retreat being a bikers oasis with lots of leathers among the bearded clientele. This is a Marston's boozer of the best kind - friendly, local and utterly unpretentious - with quality Pedigree too. Further excellent hospitality is provided by the Wellington on London Road, an authentic corner local serving Draught Bass and where everyone is called 'duck'.

- Spode Art -

Talking of authenticity, how's about an unscripted ferret around the old Spode Works for a classic interlude? I'd done some of it with Mr D9 a few years ago but this is on a different level, having free rein to roam the industrial remains to my heart's content. The arch entry has been done out to resemble the famous Willow pattern plates with blue and white porcelain finery painted across the tarmac while a three-sided plinth adds extra lustre via depictions of bottle kilns, narrowboats and skilled illustrators. Beyond that I'm let loose among the outbuildings, capturing disused fire exits and safety notices aplenty. Partial regeneration appears to be underway here with boutique workshops and the British Ceramics Biennial exhibition.

- A Glebe Conclusion -

 I need a classy finale and they don't come much more prestigious than the Glebe, an elegant taphouse which effectively abuts the aforementioned Civic Centre. Mr D9 and I splashed and dashed this once upon a time so it's nice to linger slightly longer; Joules are midway through a refurb (hence the external scaffolding) but that doesn't detract from a beguiling interior of dark wood and heraldic crests, truly befitting an establishment slap bang next to the seat of local government. This councillors' bolthole is more than acceptable for me, spotting stained glass and a carved Stoke coat of arms. A pint of Pale drinks nicely sitting below a Six Towns etched barrel and effect woodwork promoting draught ale - it's just a shame I need to get a move on to catch my train home. Stoke you've been stellar yet again, cheers!

A Second September Selection

September has seen me busy with many explorational bits and pieces, all broadly bound together by beer festivals and the tail end of the 2024 cricket season. After Tamworth, Worcester and Moseley there are now tales from Shrewsbury and Nottingham to bring you - read on to find out more...

- Bring On The Beer! -

Shrewsbury's Beer, Cider & Perry Festival has easily established itself as one of my personal favourite events over recent years, even if it hasn't quite managed to displace Dudley Winter Ales Fayre in my ultimate ale affections. A big part of its appeal is the stunning setting of St Mary's Church, barely five minutes wander up the hill from the railway station, so when the designated date rolled around again Jane and I made sure to investigate. Admission was £9 for CAMRA members (£12 otherwise) so we trotted along on the opening Wednesday to see which tempting tipples were being showcased this time around. Pentrich's 'Soul Doughnut' certainly proved an alluring aperitif, billed as a caramel custard milk stout with all of the sweet indulgent notes I could have wished for!

- St Mary's Stained Glass -

Also very much in my sights were 'Walnut Porter' (a North Riding concoction which was as decadently nutty as it sounds), Pig & Porter's 'Apparition' (complete with its suitably spectral creamy stout head), and the bizarrely-named 'Sharks With Laser Beams', a hazy Tiny Rebel IPA that resembled murky grapefruit juice but tasted terrific! Equally as joyous is the stained glass for which St Mary's is deservedly renowned, the collection containing several English and continental pieces installed during the 19th century when William Gorsuch Rowland would have been the incumbent minister. 

- Contemplating Ciders and Pondering Perries -

Jane is a fan of traditionally-produced ciders and perries so she soon acquainted herself with that particular corner of the stillage serveries. Although she mainly prefers the classic taste of apples and pears without embellishment, she's not averse to trying out slightly more unusual flavourings (purely in the name of research you understand) and declared herself partial to the floral flourishes of Gwatkin's Elderflower. 'Sweet Anita' and 'Panting Partridge' likewise get her seal of approval although she sadly emerged empty handed on the charity tombola. All of the luck came my way instead, although my winning of a 'Naked Ladies' pumpclip raised more eyebrows than the accompanying Mild In May Wenlock Pottery mug.

- Cocktail Time at The Alb -

Whilst in Shrewsbury we sought out a couple of post-festival libations, starting with the Henry Tudor Inn on Wyle Cop. Joules have done a spectacular job breathing new life into one of the town's most historic properties; it is said that the future King Henry VII stayed in the building en route to the Battle of Bosworth Field so if it was good enough for him it'll do us nicely too. Slumbering Monk and Aspalls Cider were duly sampled among cigar, taxidermy and mounted fish displays before we relocated to the Alb (previously the Albert) next to Raven Meadows Bus Station. Jane enjoys the occasional cocktail within reason so a Bramble apiece crowned the day while I puzzled over the pink bicycle hung on the wall. Chin chin!

- The Radcliffe Road End -

To cricketing matters where Warwickshire's capitulation at the hands of Essex last week had left them still needing a handful of points to ensure Championship Division One safety. Trent Bridge played host to the Bears' final fixture of the season with Stephen and I heading across to Nottingham to see the third day unfold. Notts had amassed a healthy 324/6 during a rain-interrupted first couple of days and had yet to guarantee their own survival, although much would depend on how Lancashire got on in their match at Worcester. Hopeful but perhaps a little apprehensive, Mr B and I took up a perch in the Hound Road Upper Tier to watch on...

- The Lunchtime Score -

Despite a couple of welcome wickets for part time off spinner Rob Yates, Nottinghamshire had the better of the morning session in reaching 440/9 aided by their South African wicket-keeper Kyle Verreynne's imperious unbeaten century. Nottingham Forest were due to play Fulham at home later that afternoon so the Trent Bridge Inn and other surroundings pubs were heaving come lunchtime, and the queue outside the chip shop would have required untold levels of patience too. The afternoon action saw Notts progress to 487 all out (Verreynne 148 not out) before the Warwickshire openers were dismissed cheaply. At 6/2 the alarm bells were ringing!

- Hain Holds Firm -

Thankfully the combination of Will Rhodes and Sam Hain rode to the rescue, quietening the jitters as news filtered through that Lancashire were struggling over at New Road. Even when young Farhan Ahmed started to weave his magic - accounting for Rhodes (37) and Mousley (a duck) within the same over - we suspected that Warwickshire were going to be clear of the relegation mire, if only by the skins of their teeth. The strains of Mull of Kintyre emanating from the City Ground informed us that the Forest match was underway, Fulham going on to win that thanks to a Raul Jimenez penalty kick.

- Cheers to Championship Survival -

After a belated meal in the Trent Bridge Inn once the football fans had dispersed, we settled in the Radcliffe Road Stand to watch what for us would be our last session of live 2024 cricket. The 'Hain Train' was latterly joined by Ed Barnard for a relatively serene partnership in the late afternoon sunshine, meaning Warwickshire were poised on 143/4 when stumps was declared circa quarter to six. In terms of this particular match that meant a deficit of nearly 350 runs, but confirmation of Lancashire's relegation had us breathing huge sighs of relief all the way home to Wolverhampton. Let's hope the 2025 season will bring more Warwickshire wins - Cheers!

WME Flickr Focus - September 2024

As the very last vestiges of summer disappear and any cricketing equipment goes into hibernation until next spring, I shall raise a metaphorical bat in recognition of my own September half century. Not of runs in this case but rather photographs, as fifty new pictorial arrivals swell the West Midlands Exploration photostream ranks to a current cumulative total of 7,200 images...

I hate to be predictable but there are certain galleries you just know will always be topping the scoring charts. WME Wolverhampton leads the batting averages year on year - this is hardly surprising being as I live there - although this month's contributions don't bring you Finchfield blossoms nor Compton cul-de-sacs for a change. Instead I offer Graiseley grabbings (CVH Fabrications and a delve into Drayton Street), flanked by Heath Town's almshouse doorways and two racetrack-related street signs from the Goodyears estate in Oxley - I like the way the road names reference autosport heritage there.

Also a reliable run-getter is WME Staffordshire which has nudged and nurdled its way to another sizeable innings. The Potteries possibilities of Hanley Art Gallery and Heron Cross make for attractive strokeplay whilst Huddlesford has unfurled some aesthetically pleasing cover drives courtesy of the Coventry Canal and Huddlesford Lane (even if a railway gantry is admittedly far less attractive). Gospel End signage and Hednesford pub lettering for the Plough & Harrow ensure a healthy haul is duly recorded. 

Our middle order power hitters this time around are WME Worcestershire and WME Dudley, news which marks a welcome return to form for Worcs after a barren run at the crease. The main beneficiary here has been Honeybourne with supplementary snapshots of both the village (Fancutts Garage) and the railway station; as for Dudley, it maintains the steady form it's been showing all year by supplying Fixed Wheel Brewery fragments and a sneaky sighting of Fountain Arcade. There's even a guest appearance from Santa at Gornal's Jolly Crispin!

September's tailenders are a tireless trio not averse to bludgeoning the occasional boundary. WME Birmingham takes something of a liking to the Highbury pub and Gosta Green whilst pausing to remember the short-lived Halton Turner Brewery under Digbeth's railway arches; WME Sandwell sprints a couple of quick singles involving the Fox & Goose at Greets Green and the Metro sign at Dudley Street (Guns Village), then the coup-de-grace is applied by WME Coventry with the Craven Street pairing of Guinness and M&B branding from the Hearsall Inn and neighbouring Coombe Abbey. Innings over until October...