Rejoining the Bestest Library
The Picton Reading Room
Had an email last year saying my Liverpool Library Card was no longer valid and I’d need to get a new one to enjoy their services again. Couldn’t find the old one (though I dare say that wouldn’t be suitable as a proof of ID anyway). Was heading to the wonderful Picton Reading Room in the Central Library today and though I didn’t need the card to sit and do my stuff on the iPad I thought I may as well enquire about getting a new one. Glad I did as it was as easy as pie (not pi) and twice as speedy to get a new one in hand.
Writing set-up in the Picton
I’m a member of a lovely club again. And, of course, I opted once again for the LFC branded form. Ain’t it a beauty!? Apparently the card is only valid for 5 years—I defo had the old one for much longer than that, but at least I know it’s damn easy to get a new one.
It was good to get the card again and I’ll have to look at downloading ebooks through it at some point. But it was even better to be in the Picton RR again. We are so lucky in Liverpool to have this wonderful place.
Love me Red Library card
Comments
Alternative Binges Required
For too long now I’ve gone from binge watching one series to another. It’s a current lazy predictable addiction. I shouldn’t beat myself up about binging one series, but continuous series after series—well I probably should beat myself up. Anyway, writing has been left in the wayside in recent weeks, rolling into months—okay, years.
I need to get into ‘binge writing’ on the computer at home, or my iPad, instead of binge watching random stuff on the TV, and phone. I should, but will I? I need to finish both part completed novels. Then if I gets my writing mojo—or habit—back then who knows? I think this website needs a restart. But I shouldn’t use that as an excuse to procrastinate, the novels and stories should come first, then this tired old place. Watch this space (not the TV). I need to get the writing and editing habit going and say goodbye to the YouTube and TV series rabbit holes.
I need to get into ‘binge writing’ on the computer at home, or my iPad, instead of binge watching random stuff on the TV, and phone. I should, but will I? I need to finish both part completed novels. Then if I gets my writing mojo—or habit—back then who knows? I think this website needs a restart. But I shouldn’t use that as an excuse to procrastinate, the novels and stories should come first, then this tired old place. Watch this space (not the TV). I need to get the writing and editing habit going and say goodbye to the YouTube and TV series rabbit holes.
Crazy
Last week I was subject to a new virus. It’s bizarre, but I’ll live. A couple of months ago after I’d delivered a couple of casks of Neptune ales to the Queen of Hope Street, in Liverpool, I was asked by one of the bar staff (it was Kymberley) if I’d say a few words whilst being recorded with one of the other bar staff (Dan). I said I was crap in front of a camera, but somehow I was persuaded (I blame the sun that day). It was a bar meme going around at the time (weeks ago). Anyway I did it, whilst wearing my cooling neck thingywhatsit - cos it was that hot. Didn’t think anything off it much since, but noticed that the pub didn’t post it at the time. And had posted multiple other bar vid memes since. Presumed they hadn’t drafted anyone else to do it; it was usually posted with multiple people saying the same lines.
Well last week they posted it. And it was just me and Dan. Out of the blue the thing went viral on Instagram. Madly it now has over 675k views. It has over 40k Likes, and I can say with confidence I’ve never posted on Insta with more than 50 Likes before. The algorithm is now King of course, but I’m sure there’s better ways to waste anyone’s time. The mind boggles.
That said, if you’re down Liverpool way any time, then the QoHS is worth popping into for a pint,, or two—and it is not often they ask you to be recorded for that there Social Media behemoth. Promise.
Well last week they posted it. And it was just me and Dan. Out of the blue the thing went viral on Instagram. Madly it now has over 675k views. It has over 40k Likes, and I can say with confidence I’ve never posted on Insta with more than 50 Likes before. The algorithm is now King of course, but I’m sure there’s better ways to waste anyone’s time. The mind boggles.
That said, if you’re down Liverpool way any time, then the QoHS is worth popping into for a pint,, or two—and it is not often they ask you to be recorded for that there Social Media behemoth. Promise.
Milquetoast visits the Doctors
10/08/26 09:49 Filed in: liverpoolpubs | liverpoolgigs
Last Wednesday there was new goings on in Dr Duncans. I’d seen a singer with a guitar a few times playing just near the bar, but it’s never been a regular thing. This time it wasn’t a singer with an acoustic guitar, it was two bands with playing drums and amped up and loud in the Tile Room.
The first band on was a three piece doing some jazzy songs—keyboard, bass, and drums. They were excellent. Not doing trad jazz or covers, but largely doing their own thing. With a name like Aquamarine they aren’t that easy to find quickly on Spotify. But in theory I’ll try and find them and post a link below.
Aquamarine (and a Milquetoast bassist)
The second band was Milquetoast, who are based locally—in Liverpool. They were excellent bass player, Aidan, from Hartlepool—but supports the mighty Saudi Greens (and Bar Codes) of Newcastle—is usually seen in Dr Duncans with a glass in his hand and no musical instruments, as he’s a regular barman.
It was great that he was able to play with his band in his usual place of work. The whole band are often seen sans instruments in the pub too. The room had largely been cleared of furniture and the band played by the windows on the opposite side of the room from the fire place (if you know the place—if you don’t that wont mean anything to you.). They played about a 45 minute set. The instruments all sounded excellent. They were playing through amps and the levels seemed right and they got their audience (a full room) dancing and cheering. They weren’t playing through a PA though to get the vocals right. You could hear the pre and post song chat, but not the lyrics. It didn’t dampen the atmosphere or the experience of the band or those watching—including me. Excellent stuff. And all four of the guys were well chuffed with their appearance at Dr Duncans.
And they are releasing a song ('Don't Kid Yourself') later this week.
Not everyone has an obstructed view
Milquetoast in the tile room
Set List:
"St Lucian Acid House"
Pop Song 1 'Leave Me Be'
Don't Kid Yourself
Sell Me A Dream
Pop Song 2 'Over You'
Moonshine
Rocks
Killing Time
Black Boys On Mopeds
Sylvia
————
Milquetoast Link
Agua Marine Link
Mysterious self taking photo post gig.
The first band on was a three piece doing some jazzy songs—keyboard, bass, and drums. They were excellent. Not doing trad jazz or covers, but largely doing their own thing. With a name like Aquamarine they aren’t that easy to find quickly on Spotify. But in theory I’ll try and find them and post a link below.
Aquamarine (and a Milquetoast bassist)
The second band was Milquetoast, who are based locally—in Liverpool. They were excellent bass player, Aidan, from Hartlepool—but supports the mighty Saudi Greens (and Bar Codes) of Newcastle—is usually seen in Dr Duncans with a glass in his hand and no musical instruments, as he’s a regular barman.
It was great that he was able to play with his band in his usual place of work. The whole band are often seen sans instruments in the pub too. The room had largely been cleared of furniture and the band played by the windows on the opposite side of the room from the fire place (if you know the place—if you don’t that wont mean anything to you.). They played about a 45 minute set. The instruments all sounded excellent. They were playing through amps and the levels seemed right and they got their audience (a full room) dancing and cheering. They weren’t playing through a PA though to get the vocals right. You could hear the pre and post song chat, but not the lyrics. It didn’t dampen the atmosphere or the experience of the band or those watching—including me. Excellent stuff. And all four of the guys were well chuffed with their appearance at Dr Duncans.
And they are releasing a song ('Don't Kid Yourself') later this week.
Not everyone has an obstructed view
Milquetoast in the tile room
Set List:
"St Lucian Acid House"
Pop Song 1 'Leave Me Be'
Don't Kid Yourself
Sell Me A Dream
Pop Song 2 'Over You'
Moonshine
Rocks
Killing Time
Black Boys On Mopeds
Sylvia
————
Milquetoast Link
Agua Marine Link
Mysterious self taking photo post gig.
Pints and Pages
Often when I’m in a pub I have a book as a companion (often in the form of a Kindle at the moment). Although recently I’ve had my head turned far too easily and often by Pokémon Go. I’ve got so many books on my shelves and on my Kindle I haven’t read and need to at some point. Too often I go into a charity shop and end up buying three or four books (which at my current rate of reading is probably about six months worth!). My bad.
My current read is 'Master & Commander' (Mikhail Bulgakov), which I must say is bloody excellent. Anyhoo Sophie, a Dr Duncans regular, has been allowed to commandeer a case for a book swap—and I am fully behind it. I used to use the one in the Caledonia.
Fancy a book to read?
Because it is not an open shelf but an enclosed unit you may need to ask for help finding it. It is by the stairs in the back of the pub, next to the dumb waiter. It doesn’t open fully as it butts against the hand rail by the steps, but you can get in and get a book (or place one). I know, because I put two books in there myself yesterday. It’s crazy how hard I find passing on books rather than keeping them. I can’t really justify getting more bookcases at this point. Anyway enjoy a book. Swap it if you can. Get reading (and beware the Pokémon Go time devourer!).
The almost hidden bookcase.
Follow the Instagram account: pintsandpagesliv
My current read is 'Master & Commander' (Mikhail Bulgakov), which I must say is bloody excellent. Anyhoo Sophie, a Dr Duncans regular, has been allowed to commandeer a case for a book swap—and I am fully behind it. I used to use the one in the Caledonia.
Fancy a book to read?
Because it is not an open shelf but an enclosed unit you may need to ask for help finding it. It is by the stairs in the back of the pub, next to the dumb waiter. It doesn’t open fully as it butts against the hand rail by the steps, but you can get in and get a book (or place one). I know, because I put two books in there myself yesterday. It’s crazy how hard I find passing on books rather than keeping them. I can’t really justify getting more bookcases at this point. Anyway enjoy a book. Swap it if you can. Get reading (and beware the Pokémon Go time devourer!).
The almost hidden bookcase.
Follow the Instagram account: pintsandpagesliv
World Cup '26
22/07/26 14:13 Filed in: Football
It was always going to be a strange World Cup. Being spread over such large distances, multiple countries, multiple time zones. What’s happening to the US during this current nonsense of a Government with no known plan for the country only plans for making money for himself and his similarly bent friends and family. The attitude to foreigners (well those not white anyway) is abhorrent and the large list of countries whose fans (or referees) couldn’t come was painful to observe despite my distance from it.
If they had to hold it across multiple countries I think most people would have preferred if if had been Mexico and Canada alone as hosts. The US, despite their half arsed trials at getting into football, just don’t get it. I’d half expect Trump to instigate a US only cup and declare the winner of the ‘Football World Series’ to be World Champions.
How Iran were treated for their games was like some comic strip story. Iran were attacked by the US and Israel in Real Life outside of football. And because they were a victim of this aggression it was their fault.
The way the US and FIFA introduced the game being played in Quarters so they could fit in more advert breaks was painful to observe. They tried this in 1994 along with having ‘bigger goals’, which Sepp Blatter thankfully managed not to agree to (corruption back then hadn’t become full on Infantinoed). The 27 minute half time break of the WC Final was painful. The game has rules but FIFA permitted the US to dictate changes to them—or at least the none requirement to observe them—in the name of money. No wonder Infantino and Trump come as a pair. They are cut from the same corrupt cloth.
There was some good football at the tournament, but this was despite the rule changes, not because of them. Splitting matches into Quarters changed the momentum of the games too often. At least in the UK we didn’t have to suffer more adverts during these breaks. But football in quarters just isn’t football and FIFA shouldn’t have allowed it. Don’t get me wrong, if it really is too hot then hydration breaks can be warranted—but they are already permitted in those circumstances. They are not enforced in cooler places (like cold, enclosed, air-conditioned stadia) just so the TV peeps can make more money. The way the matches changed because of these external issues was awkward to watch.
George Orwell would have dismissed some of the story lines as too implausible and unlikely to be believable. But in Trump’s America anything seems possible—looking from the outside we can’t really understand how people with any power in the US accept it constantly. So many things that they get away with because ‘the President can do what he wants’ is not understandable in more normal democracies. Whilst I wish we hadn’t gone thru so many PMs in short order recently, at least it shows that they can’t get away with anything.
Whilst football is ‘just a game’ it can feel more than that to many people across the world. Most people think that you can change your religion, but you can’t change your football team. My experience of people from the US is they don’t understand that; Oh, I supported Chelsea last year, after falling out with Man U, but now I’m full on Arsenal’. They really don’t get what it means to the rest of the world because they don’t have the same feelings.
Of course, this is a little moot in terms of International football. Surely your team would be the country of your birth—or maybe your parents. But I dare say in the States they were disappointed and confused that Israel weren’t plying. In hindsight I suspect Trump wishes he’d asked the Infant to throw Iran out and replace them with Israel. He’d probably have done it.
I was never that bothered about England to be honest—hey, I’m half Scouse. Bur I wouldn’t have minded if they’d won—or even go to the final. The manner of their defeat, after leading for so long, was frustrating and annoying to watch. They had the beating of Argentina if they’d just carried on after Jude’s goal. Hey, ho. They’d probably have been beaten by Spain in the final, but at least it would have been a better game of football—probably.
Roll on the Premier League (just four and a half week’s away) and games split into just two halves. You can have a hydration break if it’s dead hot on August 23rd in Newcastle if you must. And fifteen minute half times without a half time show—maybe time for a pint, a piss, and a pie—if you can hurry.
If they had to hold it across multiple countries I think most people would have preferred if if had been Mexico and Canada alone as hosts. The US, despite their half arsed trials at getting into football, just don’t get it. I’d half expect Trump to instigate a US only cup and declare the winner of the ‘Football World Series’ to be World Champions.
How Iran were treated for their games was like some comic strip story. Iran were attacked by the US and Israel in Real Life outside of football. And because they were a victim of this aggression it was their fault.
The way the US and FIFA introduced the game being played in Quarters so they could fit in more advert breaks was painful to observe. They tried this in 1994 along with having ‘bigger goals’, which Sepp Blatter thankfully managed not to agree to (corruption back then hadn’t become full on Infantinoed). The 27 minute half time break of the WC Final was painful. The game has rules but FIFA permitted the US to dictate changes to them—or at least the none requirement to observe them—in the name of money. No wonder Infantino and Trump come as a pair. They are cut from the same corrupt cloth.
There was some good football at the tournament, but this was despite the rule changes, not because of them. Splitting matches into Quarters changed the momentum of the games too often. At least in the UK we didn’t have to suffer more adverts during these breaks. But football in quarters just isn’t football and FIFA shouldn’t have allowed it. Don’t get me wrong, if it really is too hot then hydration breaks can be warranted—but they are already permitted in those circumstances. They are not enforced in cooler places (like cold, enclosed, air-conditioned stadia) just so the TV peeps can make more money. The way the matches changed because of these external issues was awkward to watch.
George Orwell would have dismissed some of the story lines as too implausible and unlikely to be believable. But in Trump’s America anything seems possible—looking from the outside we can’t really understand how people with any power in the US accept it constantly. So many things that they get away with because ‘the President can do what he wants’ is not understandable in more normal democracies. Whilst I wish we hadn’t gone thru so many PMs in short order recently, at least it shows that they can’t get away with anything.
Whilst football is ‘just a game’ it can feel more than that to many people across the world. Most people think that you can change your religion, but you can’t change your football team. My experience of people from the US is they don’t understand that; Oh, I supported Chelsea last year, after falling out with Man U, but now I’m full on Arsenal’. They really don’t get what it means to the rest of the world because they don’t have the same feelings.
Of course, this is a little moot in terms of International football. Surely your team would be the country of your birth—or maybe your parents. But I dare say in the States they were disappointed and confused that Israel weren’t plying. In hindsight I suspect Trump wishes he’d asked the Infant to throw Iran out and replace them with Israel. He’d probably have done it.
I was never that bothered about England to be honest—hey, I’m half Scouse. Bur I wouldn’t have minded if they’d won—or even go to the final. The manner of their defeat, after leading for so long, was frustrating and annoying to watch. They had the beating of Argentina if they’d just carried on after Jude’s goal. Hey, ho. They’d probably have been beaten by Spain in the final, but at least it would have been a better game of football—probably.
Roll on the Premier League (just four and a half week’s away) and games split into just two halves. You can have a hydration break if it’s dead hot on August 23rd in Newcastle if you must. And fifteen minute half times without a half time show—maybe time for a pint, a piss, and a pie—if you can hurry.
Pokemon Go 10th Anniversary
22/07/26 14:12 Filed in: Pokemon
It was another hot week in England. Even in Liverpool—which often avoids the heat with nice west coast breezes, but didn’t this time. And at the weekend of the 11th-12th of July it was GoFest 2026, which was the 10th Anniversary. It was two long days of challenges and masses of available Pokémon, which changed over the hours largely in three hour periods from 10am-1pm, 1-4, and 4-7pm. There were loads of opportunities to collect new or better Pokémon—or shinies—to add to your collection. And to collect your important candies and special powers for the Megas or Primals. All the while collecting much UV and buckets of sweat out in RL.
It was the 10th Anniversary of PG—and the first time Scopely was referred to instead of Niantic.
Twas hot out there—stay in the shade if not the pub.
Hydration Break.
But not me. I played from Dr Duncans across the road from Liverpool’s Pokémon Central in St Annes Gardens. I had the benefit of on-tap beers and Air-Con. Phew!
PG Central for me—Dr Duncans
Had some nice beers over the two days and collected plenty of good stuff in game (and from Lidl in RL). I didn’t get the least bit dehydrated. Wonderful. Over the two days a few peeps popped over from the Gardens to cool down, hydrate and get some scran. Hey, I was ‘ere first! Does that make me an influencer? Probably not.
There were MewToos everywhere.
More hydration, with a Solgaleo in The Vines.
Got me a decent Shiny Primal Groudon complete with a background on Saturday and some nice Necrozmas. Need to work though still in collecting fusion energy so I can fuse them with my Solgaleo. Only ended up collecting five shiny Pokémon over the two days (along with the Groudon I got a Stunfish, Aron, costumed Squirtle, and a lovely looking Terrakion). I have just one Hundo over the entire week (currently evolved to a Grotle).
Snagged a Shiny Groudon with a snazzy background.
I left 66 behind on the Friday.
I’d levelled up to 67 on Friday and managed to make 1.3million points over the two days of the Festival due to the massive bonuses that were available. All in all it proved a mighty fine game weekend. I dare say I could describe it as Cool, despite the outdoor evidence to the contrary.
It was the 10th Anniversary of PG—and the first time Scopely was referred to instead of Niantic.
Twas hot out there—stay in the shade if not the pub.
Hydration Break.
But not me. I played from Dr Duncans across the road from Liverpool’s Pokémon Central in St Annes Gardens. I had the benefit of on-tap beers and Air-Con. Phew!
PG Central for me—Dr Duncans
Had some nice beers over the two days and collected plenty of good stuff in game (and from Lidl in RL). I didn’t get the least bit dehydrated. Wonderful. Over the two days a few peeps popped over from the Gardens to cool down, hydrate and get some scran. Hey, I was ‘ere first! Does that make me an influencer? Probably not.
There were MewToos everywhere.
More hydration, with a Solgaleo in The Vines.
Got me a decent Shiny Primal Groudon complete with a background on Saturday and some nice Necrozmas. Need to work though still in collecting fusion energy so I can fuse them with my Solgaleo. Only ended up collecting five shiny Pokémon over the two days (along with the Groudon I got a Stunfish, Aron, costumed Squirtle, and a lovely looking Terrakion). I have just one Hundo over the entire week (currently evolved to a Grotle).
Snagged a Shiny Groudon with a snazzy background.
I left 66 behind on the Friday.
I’d levelled up to 67 on Friday and managed to make 1.3million points over the two days of the Festival due to the massive bonuses that were available. All in all it proved a mighty fine game weekend. I dare say I could describe it as Cool, despite the outdoor evidence to the contrary.
The Return of The Completely Forgotten
Came across a keyboard I had a while back—a Pebble K380. I’ve not used it in ages. And while it means I’ll have even more bulk in my bag if I choose to return to it. It is much nicer to type on than the foldable keyboard I’ve been using over the last long while. Much more amenable to getting stuck into longer pieces. Let’s just see if I do.
It was quite painful to re-Pair it with the iPad. I’m not sure why. Maybe the other keyboard connection conflicted with it somehow. Eventually I ‘forgot’ the foldable keyboard on the iPad’s Bluetooth settings and tried again. It worked then. Not sure whether this was reason it worked, but I did finally get it to Pair. Hence these longer paragraphs than I usually make. Sorry.
Welcome back, K380. I’d not completely forgotten you. Really. Okay, I had.
It was quite painful to re-Pair it with the iPad. I’m not sure why. Maybe the other keyboard connection conflicted with it somehow. Eventually I ‘forgot’ the foldable keyboard on the iPad’s Bluetooth settings and tried again. It worked then. Not sure whether this was reason it worked, but I did finally get it to Pair. Hence these longer paragraphs than I usually make. Sorry.
Welcome back, K380. I’d not completely forgotten you. Really. Okay, I had.
Lottery Winners in Leigh
Had been looking forward to the Lottery Winners homecoming stadium gig for ages. And it was last weekend at the Leigh Sports Village stadium—home of the Leigh Leopards rugby league team and Man Utd Women’s team.
Leigh is not on a train route, so I took the train to Newton-le-Willows and caught a bus from there which terminated at the bus station in Leigh. First time I’ve been to Newton by public transport and not made it into the Firkin for a pint or two of ale—‘cos it didn’t open until 2pm and I was leaving before then.
The bus to Leigh was fine. It didn’t take long to get there. It was another warm sunny day (earlier in the week the forecast had been light rain all day, so that was a result). Thought I’d get a few ales in places I hadn’t been to before. Unfortunately it proved a hopeless cause in terms of real ale. The first place I went was Bond Street Brewing Company, which sounded promising (and had a 4.7/5 rating on Google). There was no ale on and not even any vacant hand pulls. I ended up with a John Smiths keg thing. To be fair it was only £3.10 for a pint so I couldn’t complain too much. Let’s say the visit was interesting.
John Smiths keg in the Broad Street Brewing Company
Next up was the Waterside, a large canal side pub. This time they had three hand pulls on the bar. But nope, they were all vacant. Perhaps the Billy Ocean fans had drunk them dry the day before (he played the stadium the night before). It was very warm drinking in the sunshine (this time keg Boddingtons). The pub got overly busy in the sun and they kept putting a rope up by the door to prevent (or at least discourage) new customers coming in.
Boddingtons keg in The Waterside
Just across and down the bridge it was on into the Leopards Den. The Leopards being the rugby team and not a local feline. Perhaps the Leigh Leopard is akin to the Hartlepool Monkey—maybe I’ll look into it. This time I was left on Thatchers cider—and in floppy plastic glasses to boot. All in all a very different drinking experience for me than usual. It’s how the other half lives, I guess.
Thatchers cider in the Leopards Den (in plastic glasses)
Then I made my way towards the ground, I hoped to get a pint in at the big pub by the stadium. I’d decided not to get in to the Lilacs, as I was not sure four or five hours in the stadium would be good for me legs. Ended up with a very expensive pint of Beavertown, Neck Oil. The area outside was heaving with people heading towards the gig.
I got to the stadium about 7pm. Unfortunately the long queues for merchandise were off-putting for me. A real shame as I fancied getting another LW t-shirt. They do have some nice ones, and it’s good to further support the group. Maybe I’ll get one online in the coming weeks. I picked up a can of Guinness instead.
Scouting for Girls had gone and now it was time for the main band. Everybody clap!
Thom gets 'Leigh' tattoo whilst on stage
I struggled a bit to get up to my seat. It was booked as an Accessible ticket, but being accessible apparently didn’t mean having anything to hold on to traversing the stairs. It was no different to any other part of the stadium, as far as I could see.
Ended up sat next to a couple who had come up from Cardiff for the gig. Whenever LW play they do pull in fans from all over. After a while with the DJ playing some decent northern tunes it was time for Scouting for Girls to come on. I’m not a particular fan of theirs, but I have listened to the new album a couple times and I prefer it to their older stuff—they’ve been going for X years now. Time flies etc. The atmosphere was upbeat and increasing in volume and exuberance all the time ably helped by the DJ’s tuneage.
This is beginning to read too much like a gig review, but it isn’t for the music press so let’s just cut the chase. The Lottery Winners came on to adoring fans who loved every fucking minute of it. The band playing their hometown fucking loved it to. I’m sure there were tears of joy shed around all corners of the stadium. Thom, Kate, Rob and Joe loved it—possibly as much as I did. So many good songs, a vibe delivering wide smiles bigger than the town of Leigh itself. Frank Turner came on to do his stuff with them (‘Start Again’ was on another level), and the Reverend himself delivered You Again with Kate with aplomb.
Chad Kroeger, the Nickleback singer, wasn’t in attendance and his part had been sent as a full screen video for Kate to duet Ragdoll with—and it worked well. Another guest who came on stage didn’t sing at all: it was a tattoo artist who inked ‘Leigh’ onto Thom’s arm as the band delivered Superpower. Super indeed (it brought back memories of Frank getting the date of the Wembley Arena gig inked live backstage at the gig in question—I was wearing my FTHC T-shirt from that night. A nice juxtaposition.).
Kate bossing with the Bass all night
Thom and Frank loving the occasion—it's not Dirt and Gold, it's gold and gold.
Nearing the end in Leigh.
The performance and humour of the band shone through and, as night fell, it was a cue for bright lights, and streamers, and coloured cannon fodder to drench the crowd, and there were fireworks on stage too. Brilliant light for a brilliant night. Long live the Lottery Winners. Please get on the LW bus, if you’re not on yet, you’re missing out.
I didn’t get on the bus, I got an Uber home to Liverpool from just outside the Leopard’s Den. It was only £42, cheaper than any hotel I could get and I was home just after midnight. Result. While I was waiting for the taxi I got chatting to some other fans who were trying to get taxis to their hotel in Warrington. They’d come down that day from Durham. The Lottery Winners performances do have some pulling power and devoted fans throughout the country—and this home gig was north of special. You can see the smiles for miles around.
Leigh is not on a train route, so I took the train to Newton-le-Willows and caught a bus from there which terminated at the bus station in Leigh. First time I’ve been to Newton by public transport and not made it into the Firkin for a pint or two of ale—‘cos it didn’t open until 2pm and I was leaving before then.
The bus to Leigh was fine. It didn’t take long to get there. It was another warm sunny day (earlier in the week the forecast had been light rain all day, so that was a result). Thought I’d get a few ales in places I hadn’t been to before. Unfortunately it proved a hopeless cause in terms of real ale. The first place I went was Bond Street Brewing Company, which sounded promising (and had a 4.7/5 rating on Google). There was no ale on and not even any vacant hand pulls. I ended up with a John Smiths keg thing. To be fair it was only £3.10 for a pint so I couldn’t complain too much. Let’s say the visit was interesting.
John Smiths keg in the Broad Street Brewing Company
Next up was the Waterside, a large canal side pub. This time they had three hand pulls on the bar. But nope, they were all vacant. Perhaps the Billy Ocean fans had drunk them dry the day before (he played the stadium the night before). It was very warm drinking in the sunshine (this time keg Boddingtons). The pub got overly busy in the sun and they kept putting a rope up by the door to prevent (or at least discourage) new customers coming in.
Boddingtons keg in The Waterside
Just across and down the bridge it was on into the Leopards Den. The Leopards being the rugby team and not a local feline. Perhaps the Leigh Leopard is akin to the Hartlepool Monkey—maybe I’ll look into it. This time I was left on Thatchers cider—and in floppy plastic glasses to boot. All in all a very different drinking experience for me than usual. It’s how the other half lives, I guess.
Thatchers cider in the Leopards Den (in plastic glasses)
Then I made my way towards the ground, I hoped to get a pint in at the big pub by the stadium. I’d decided not to get in to the Lilacs, as I was not sure four or five hours in the stadium would be good for me legs. Ended up with a very expensive pint of Beavertown, Neck Oil. The area outside was heaving with people heading towards the gig.
I got to the stadium about 7pm. Unfortunately the long queues for merchandise were off-putting for me. A real shame as I fancied getting another LW t-shirt. They do have some nice ones, and it’s good to further support the group. Maybe I’ll get one online in the coming weeks. I picked up a can of Guinness instead.
Scouting for Girls had gone and now it was time for the main band. Everybody clap!
Thom gets 'Leigh' tattoo whilst on stage
I struggled a bit to get up to my seat. It was booked as an Accessible ticket, but being accessible apparently didn’t mean having anything to hold on to traversing the stairs. It was no different to any other part of the stadium, as far as I could see.
Ended up sat next to a couple who had come up from Cardiff for the gig. Whenever LW play they do pull in fans from all over. After a while with the DJ playing some decent northern tunes it was time for Scouting for Girls to come on. I’m not a particular fan of theirs, but I have listened to the new album a couple times and I prefer it to their older stuff—they’ve been going for X years now. Time flies etc. The atmosphere was upbeat and increasing in volume and exuberance all the time ably helped by the DJ’s tuneage.
This is beginning to read too much like a gig review, but it isn’t for the music press so let’s just cut the chase. The Lottery Winners came on to adoring fans who loved every fucking minute of it. The band playing their hometown fucking loved it to. I’m sure there were tears of joy shed around all corners of the stadium. Thom, Kate, Rob and Joe loved it—possibly as much as I did. So many good songs, a vibe delivering wide smiles bigger than the town of Leigh itself. Frank Turner came on to do his stuff with them (‘Start Again’ was on another level), and the Reverend himself delivered You Again with Kate with aplomb.
Chad Kroeger, the Nickleback singer, wasn’t in attendance and his part had been sent as a full screen video for Kate to duet Ragdoll with—and it worked well. Another guest who came on stage didn’t sing at all: it was a tattoo artist who inked ‘Leigh’ onto Thom’s arm as the band delivered Superpower. Super indeed (it brought back memories of Frank getting the date of the Wembley Arena gig inked live backstage at the gig in question—I was wearing my FTHC T-shirt from that night. A nice juxtaposition.).
Kate bossing with the Bass all night
Thom and Frank loving the occasion—it's not Dirt and Gold, it's gold and gold.
Nearing the end in Leigh.
The performance and humour of the band shone through and, as night fell, it was a cue for bright lights, and streamers, and coloured cannon fodder to drench the crowd, and there were fireworks on stage too. Brilliant light for a brilliant night. Long live the Lottery Winners. Please get on the LW bus, if you’re not on yet, you’re missing out.
I didn’t get on the bus, I got an Uber home to Liverpool from just outside the Leopard’s Den. It was only £42, cheaper than any hotel I could get and I was home just after midnight. Result. While I was waiting for the taxi I got chatting to some other fans who were trying to get taxis to their hotel in Warrington. They’d come down that day from Durham. The Lottery Winners performances do have some pulling power and devoted fans throughout the country—and this home gig was north of special. You can see the smiles for miles around.
Pokémon Go to the Pub
Created another Pokémon Go Route last week. It’s from Dr Duncans to the Denbigh Castle, or more correctly to the PokéStop by the Denbigh, which is the lovely ‘Nomad Clan’ mural. The route takes in the Queens Arms on Victoria Street, so you can take in three fab pubs.
Had to appeal the decision to refuse the route on Danger grounds. Lol
When I first uploaded the Route it was turned down by the powers that be. The Route was rejected because it was ‘dangerous or unsafe area.’ I had to bother to appeal this spurious reasoning and I did appeal, and was successful. Huzzah!
Dr D's to Denbigh Castle Route
There is definitely a theme in my routes. Good pubs aplenty and not too long either. You can actually now follow a continuous route from the Queen of Hope Street at the top in of town down to the Denbigh Castle, on the other side of Dale Street. This is made up of four routes and takes in loads of good Liverpool pubs. I’m not sure I’ll ever do all four in one day, but it could happen.
- QoHS (Liverpool Philharmonic stop) to the Grapes. This originally took in the Caledonia, which is now closed, but you don’t have to walk past the Cali to complete the route. You simply take in the Belvedere Arms instead.
- The Grapes to the Vines, taking in the Dispensary
- Vines to Dr Duncans.
- Dr Duncs to Denbigh Castle (Nomad Clan Stop), taking you past the Queens Arms.
From Doctor Duncans to The Vines
From The Vines to The Grapes
From The Grapes to the Queen of Hope Street/Philharmonic Pub
Good luck picking up those Zygarde cells. At least you can guarantee a decent pint or two even if you can’t get those pesky Zygardes.
A pint break in the Queens Arms
Had to appeal the decision to refuse the route on Danger grounds. Lol
When I first uploaded the Route it was turned down by the powers that be. The Route was rejected because it was ‘dangerous or unsafe area.’ I had to bother to appeal this spurious reasoning and I did appeal, and was successful. Huzzah!
Dr D's to Denbigh Castle Route
There is definitely a theme in my routes. Good pubs aplenty and not too long either. You can actually now follow a continuous route from the Queen of Hope Street at the top in of town down to the Denbigh Castle, on the other side of Dale Street. This is made up of four routes and takes in loads of good Liverpool pubs. I’m not sure I’ll ever do all four in one day, but it could happen.
- QoHS (Liverpool Philharmonic stop) to the Grapes. This originally took in the Caledonia, which is now closed, but you don’t have to walk past the Cali to complete the route. You simply take in the Belvedere Arms instead.
- The Grapes to the Vines, taking in the Dispensary
- Vines to Dr Duncans.
- Dr Duncs to Denbigh Castle (Nomad Clan Stop), taking you past the Queens Arms.
From Doctor Duncans to The Vines
From The Vines to The Grapes
From The Grapes to the Queen of Hope Street/Philharmonic Pub
Good luck picking up those Zygarde cells. At least you can guarantee a decent pint or two even if you can’t get those pesky Zygardes.
A pint break in the Queens Arms