March 22, 2026

Cheltenham News & Events | All Things Cheltenham with Andy Rea (Dark side of the Ales Festival ) & John (Cheltenham Backgammon Club)

Cheltenham News & Events | All Things Cheltenham with Andy Rea (Dark side of the Ales Festival ) & John (Cheltenham Backgammon Club)
Apple Podcasts podcast player iconSpotify podcast player iconYouTube podcast player icon
Apple Podcasts podcast player iconSpotify podcast player iconYouTube podcast player icon

👉 Message the podcast on WhatsApp (text or voice note)

A bridge that’s stood since the 1980s is about to come down, and it’s just one sign that Cheltenham is changing fast. I’m Reg, and this week’s All Things Cheltenham is a proper town-wide sweep of local news, community stories, sport and events, with plenty of moments that make you stop and think about what kind of place we’re all building together.

I start with the latest on the Regent Arcade Bridge demolition tied to the Cavendish House redevelopment, plus High Street chatter, proposed 20 mph zones across Gloucestershire and a worrying report of a residential street that appears to be sinking. There’s good news too, from Nagumi being shortlisted for a major local award to Cheltenham Borough Council backing grassroots projects through the Community Pride Fund, and a genuinely heartwarming care home surprise that proves small acts can carry big meaning.

Then we go deeper with two guests. Festival programmer Andy Rea joins me to talk about the Dark Side of the Ales festival at the Sandford Park Alehouse, a free community festival mixing dark ales with film, quizzes, live music and comedy. John also joins to explain the Cheltenham Backgammon Club, why it exists, how league nights work, and why beginners are welcome even if you’ve only ever played at home.

If you like hearing what’s on in Cheltenham and want your voice included, subscribe, share, leave a review, and message me on WhatsApp so I can feature your views in a future show.

Love to Move

That's the Fresh Art Fair

A Path to a Healthy Body and Soul

📍 Get involved with All Things Cheltenham

Submit your local events, community notices, or news tips free of charge via the website.

🎙️ Listen, follow, and share the podcast to support local voices in Cheltenham.

00:01 - Welcome And New WhatsApp Line

01:29 - Cheltenham News

10:25 - Cheltenham Sport

12:27 - Cheltenham Community Noticeboard

17:08 - Guest - Andy Rea - Dark Side of the Ales Festival

38:00 - Have Your Say

39:23 - Events with Guest John from Cheltenham Backgammon Club

WEBVTT

00:00:01.199 --> 00:00:14.160
Hello, I'm Reg, your host, and this is All Things Cheltenham, your weekly roundup of local news, events, sports, and community stories, with your views and voices from across Cheltenham.

00:00:14.400 --> 00:00:18.160
Today is Sunday, the 22nd of March, 2026.

00:00:18.640 --> 00:00:20.399
So let's get started.

00:00:21.199 --> 00:00:28.719
Okay, before we do, I have made a major improvement to communication with this podcast.

00:00:28.879 --> 00:00:32.159
I have set up a WhatsApp for the podcast.

00:00:32.320 --> 00:00:38.399
So if you'd like to get involved with the show, you can now message me directly on WhatsApp.

00:00:38.560 --> 00:00:44.159
Just head over to the top of the episode subscription and tap the link to send a message.

00:00:44.399 --> 00:00:45.359
Nice and easy.

00:00:45.600 --> 00:00:52.880
Or if you prefer, you can message the show on 0746 855 738.

00:00:53.119 --> 00:00:57.840
That's 0746 855738.

00:00:58.320 --> 00:01:04.079
Whether it's local news, events, your opinions, or just something you'd like to share about Cheltenham.

00:01:04.239 --> 00:01:06.159
I'd love to hear from you.

00:01:06.319 --> 00:01:11.040
And who knows, your message might even feature in a future episode.

00:01:11.359 --> 00:01:22.000
So coming up on this week's episode, I'll be chatting with Andy Ray about the dark side of the Owl festival taking place at Stanford Park Alehouse.

00:01:22.239 --> 00:01:27.359
Also, speaking to John all about his Cheltenham Backgammon Club.

00:01:27.519 --> 00:01:33.359
But first off, let's take a look at this week's Cheltenham local news.

00:01:33.680 --> 00:01:41.760
And we start off with the Regent Arcade Bridge, which is set to be demolished as plans have moved forward to redevelop the Cavendish House site.

00:01:42.000 --> 00:01:50.159
The bridge which links Regent Arcade to Cavendish House has been in place since around the 1980s and currently sits above Regent Street.

00:01:50.400 --> 00:02:00.079
Its removal is part of a wider redevelopment plans for the area, with the closure of Cavendish House earlier this year paving the way for the next phase.

00:02:00.480 --> 00:02:09.759
Working on removing the bridge could be could involve either a phased approach lasting several weeks or a quicker demolition over just a few days.

00:02:10.080 --> 00:02:17.120
Although that would mean the full road closure and disrupt disruption in the town centre.

00:02:17.520 --> 00:02:22.240
I can actually update that because I spoke to one of the builders.

00:02:22.400 --> 00:02:33.759
I was going down there and he informed me that they are building scaffolding underneath the entire bridge area of that tunnel, and it's going to be demolished from the inside.

00:02:34.000 --> 00:02:36.960
So it shouldn't involve the road being closed.

00:02:37.120 --> 00:02:38.639
That's what I have been told.

00:02:38.800 --> 00:02:40.960
But you know what builders are like, don't we?

00:02:41.199 --> 00:02:53.840
So the demolition is expected to be one of the first visible steps in transforming the site with future plans potentially including new leisure or dining spaces as part of Cheltenham Town Centre regeneration.

00:02:54.719 --> 00:03:05.759
Now, there are a couple of changes being talked about on Cheltenham's High Street, although it's important to say these are not currently confirmed.

00:03:07.120 --> 00:03:14.080
Firstly, the former mountain warehouse store, which closed yesterday, will not will not be going for long.

00:03:14.240 --> 00:03:25.199
There are reports that from members of the public suggesting it will be relocating just a short distance up the high street, possibly into the former River Island unit.

00:03:25.360 --> 00:03:30.639
So where River Island used to be will now be the new mountain warehouse store.

00:03:30.800 --> 00:03:35.840
But obviously they've got to do all the structural work and get all the fittings in and so on.

00:03:36.080 --> 00:03:43.280
And another nearby spot, the recently closed Ballista Close Store unit, is also subject of speculation.

00:03:43.360 --> 00:03:49.759
I think I mentioned this last week, but there have been suggestions that it could be taken over by KFC.

00:03:50.400 --> 00:03:56.240
But at this stage, both of these updates are based on local chatter and have not been officially confirmed.

00:03:56.400 --> 00:03:59.840
And they and but they're certainly ones to keep an eye on.

00:03:59.919 --> 00:04:06.879
And as always, once I know and I see information and more information, whatever about it, I will let you know.

00:04:07.199 --> 00:04:11.439
So um do keep your eyes peeled because things may be moving around.

00:04:11.680 --> 00:04:18.800
Now, plans to introduce more 20 mile per hour speed limits across Gloucestershire are moving forward.

00:04:19.120 --> 00:04:30.560
Gloucestershire County Council is set to roll out a program of community-backed 20 mile per hour zones in towns and residential areas where there is local support.

00:04:30.800 --> 00:04:38.079
The aim is to improve road safety, reduce serious injuries, and make streets safer for walking and cycling.

00:04:38.319 --> 00:04:50.240
The scheme is expected to be introduced in phases starting from 2026 to moving into 2027, with early areas including parts of Cheltenham among those being considered.

00:04:50.480 --> 00:05:01.279
The council has already secured around 2.8 million in funding for the programme, and more than 150 communities across the county have expressed interest in taking part.

00:05:01.920 --> 00:05:05.680
Importantly, these changes won't be a blanket rollout.

00:05:05.839 --> 00:05:13.519
Each area will go through consultation with decisions based on local support, traffic data, and safety needs.

00:05:13.759 --> 00:05:24.879
The council says long-term goal is to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Gloucestershire's roads after more than a thousand people were involved in road traffic collisions in the county last year.

00:05:25.199 --> 00:05:30.160
More details are expected as the programme develops and consultations begin.

00:05:30.560 --> 00:05:32.720
So, what do you think about that?

00:05:32.800 --> 00:05:39.040
I mean, I'm not a driver, so as I said last week with the have your say section, they were talking about potholes.

00:05:39.199 --> 00:05:41.920
I don't drive, so I don't really notice these things.

00:05:42.079 --> 00:05:44.639
But 20 miles an hour, what do you think?

00:05:44.879 --> 00:05:48.240
Get in touch, give me your opinion, have your say.

00:05:48.959 --> 00:05:58.240
Now in Cheltenham, concerns have been raised about a residential street that appears to be sinking, with locals worried about ongoing safety issues.

00:05:58.399 --> 00:06:00.319
Yeah, that would worry me, to be honest.

00:06:00.480 --> 00:06:10.319
Residents have reported that sections of road surface have been deteriorating with visible sinking and damage believed to be linked to problems with underground pipes.

00:06:10.560 --> 00:06:20.800
The local councillor has called for action saying that repairing the road surface alone won't solve the issue of the underlying underlying pipe work, isn't fixed first.

00:06:21.120 --> 00:06:30.000
There are new now calls for 7 Trent to investigate and carry out necessary repairs to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the area.

00:06:30.240 --> 00:06:36.639
At the moment, the situation remains ongoing with residents hoping for a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix.

00:06:36.800 --> 00:06:40.879
As more updates come in, this is definitely one we'll keep our eye on.

00:06:41.040 --> 00:06:50.079
Now in some positive news at last, Cheltenham's food scene local restaurant Nagumi has been shortlisted for a major award.

00:06:50.319 --> 00:06:59.199
The popular Japanese and Korean restaurant has made the shortlist for Restaurant of the Year at the Gloucestershire Lifestyle and Community Awards 2026.

00:06:59.519 --> 00:07:08.160
The awards celebrate some of the very best across the county, recognising quality services and their contribution to the local community.

00:07:08.480 --> 00:07:16.639
Nagumi is up against a number of well-known venues across Gloucestershire, highlighting just how strong the local food scene is right now.

00:07:16.879 --> 00:07:20.720
Voting's now open, with the winners set to be announced later this year.

00:07:20.959 --> 00:07:25.120
It's a great achievement for a Cheltenham-based restaurant and definitely one to watch.

00:07:25.360 --> 00:07:29.680
Now, in Cheltenham, a man had been arrested following a raid at a local post office.

00:07:29.839 --> 00:07:36.560
Police say the suspect was later found hiding in a loft with officers who discovered an imitation firearm.

00:07:36.720 --> 00:07:44.000
The incident prompts an investigation with officers appearing to witnesses as they worked to piece together exactly what happened.

00:07:44.240 --> 00:07:50.240
Thankfully, there was no serious injuries have been reported, but the situation has raised concerns locally.

00:07:50.560 --> 00:07:56.319
Police are continuing their inquiries and anyone with information is urged to come forward.

00:07:56.480 --> 00:08:00.720
More updates are expected as the investigation continues.

00:08:01.439 --> 00:08:07.839
Now in Cheltenham, community groups across the town are benefiting from a major funding boost.

00:08:08.079 --> 00:08:21.360
Cheltenham Borough Council has awarded around£30,000 through its annual community pride fund, supporting£22 local projects aimed at improving life for residents across the town.

00:08:21.680 --> 00:08:36.080
The funded projects cover a wide range of activities from community events like Eid celebrations and Pride in Cheltenham to initiatives supporting children and young people, improving green spaces and prompting mental and physical well-being.

00:08:36.320 --> 00:08:47.840
Some of the projects include reading support for school children, community garden schemes, improvements to local parks, and new activities designed to bring together and reduce isolation.

00:08:48.080 --> 00:09:01.600
The council say the fund plays an important role in helping local groups deliver projects that make a real difference in the communities, with activities taking place right across Cheltenham throughout the year.

00:09:01.840 --> 00:09:06.799
It's a great example of local organisations coming together to support the community.

00:09:07.039 --> 00:09:10.000
And finally, a really heartwarming story.

00:09:10.159 --> 00:09:13.200
I come across this and it's lovely, it really is.

00:09:13.360 --> 00:09:15.039
But you're gonna like this one, you really will.

00:09:15.279 --> 00:09:23.360
A resident at Crofton Spring Care Home has been left delighted after staff arranged a very special surprise.

00:09:23.679 --> 00:09:26.799
Adopting a donkey in her name.

00:09:27.120 --> 00:09:34.639
Charlotte Pumphrey, who lives at the home, often speaks about how much she loves donkeys and enjoys watching them on television.

00:09:34.799 --> 00:09:43.039
So staff decided to make their make passion a reality by arranging for her to adopt a donkey called Peanut.

00:09:43.679 --> 00:09:53.360
Since the surprise, Charlotte has been able to watch Peanut through a live camera, seeing him out in the fields, and now she proudly tells everyone that she has her own donkey.

00:09:53.600 --> 00:09:58.879
She even keeps a photo of Peanut in her room and gets excited every time she sees him on the screen.

00:09:59.120 --> 00:10:08.639
Staff at the home say the moment brought so much joy, not just to Charlotte, but to everyone around her, and it's become a lovely talking point for the residents and the team alike.

00:10:08.879 --> 00:10:11.759
A simple idea, but a really special one.

00:10:11.840 --> 00:10:16.799
And a great example of how small gestures can make a big difference.

00:10:17.120 --> 00:10:19.679
I think that is absolutely gorgeous.

00:10:19.840 --> 00:10:20.480
I really do.

00:10:20.639 --> 00:10:22.960
I had to put include that in today's show.

00:10:23.279 --> 00:10:23.600
Okay.

00:10:24.559 --> 00:10:28.559
Moving on to sports, and I'll explain why I've brought sports back.

00:10:28.799 --> 00:10:35.200
Cheltenham Town's unbeaten run has come to an end after a 5-2 defeat away at Knotts County at Meadow Lane.

00:10:35.360 --> 00:10:46.240
The Robins made a bright start and took the lead early on, with Isaac Hutchinson finishing from close range after a good run and assist from Josh Davison in the 10th minute.

00:10:46.480 --> 00:10:55.519
But the lead didn't last long as Knotts County equalised just six minutes later before turning the game around through a powerful long-range strike from Matt Palmer.

00:10:55.759 --> 00:11:07.279
Chucknam responded well though, and Hutchinson grabbed his second in the game in the 35th minute to make it 2-2, taking his tally to 16 goals this season.

00:11:07.519 --> 00:11:10.399
After the break, the home side stepped up a gear.

00:11:10.559 --> 00:11:19.679
A solo effort from Tom Leprende put Knott County back in front before goals from Alice Alencia Jatte and Therese Hall.

00:11:20.000 --> 00:11:24.080
The later coming in stoppage time sealed a 5-2 win.

00:11:24.320 --> 00:11:31.919
To make things more difficult for the Robins, they were reduced to 10 men late on after Sam Sheerin was shown a straight red card.

00:11:32.159 --> 00:11:37.279
So a tough afternoon for Cheltenham Town who will now be looking to bounce back in their next fixture.

00:11:37.519 --> 00:11:38.720
Fixture, sorry.

00:11:38.960 --> 00:11:45.440
Now the reason for this was I am actually heading off to the Cheltenham's Women's Football Club today.

00:11:45.600 --> 00:11:49.200
I've been kindly invited to go down, so really looking forward to this.

00:11:49.440 --> 00:11:50.960
Kickoff is at 2 pm.

00:11:51.039 --> 00:11:55.840
So if you're listening to this in the morning and looking for something to do, it's gonna be a nice day.

00:11:56.080 --> 00:11:58.639
Why not pop along and support the team?

00:11:58.799 --> 00:12:04.799
Now if you are going or you're gonna come along, feel free to come and say hello if you spot me.

00:12:04.879 --> 00:12:07.440
I'll have me all things chuckling them t-shirt on and me hat.

00:12:07.519 --> 00:12:08.720
So do come over and say hello.

00:12:08.799 --> 00:12:10.240
It'd be lovely to meet you all.

00:12:10.399 --> 00:12:19.840
Now, if um I will also then, of course, next week let you know how the game went and what's happening with local sports.

00:12:20.000 --> 00:12:27.679
And if any local sports teams want me to report on what they do, please do get in touch.

00:12:27.840 --> 00:12:32.720
Right, time for a quick sip of tea, and then we'll get on with the Cheltenham Community Notice Board.

00:12:34.320 --> 00:12:40.320
Okay, now an opportunity is to get involved in something really worthwhile has appeared.

00:12:40.559 --> 00:12:51.360
Parkinson's UK has teamed up with the British Gymnastics Foundation to launch a program called Love to Move, and they're now looking for people in Gloucestershire to get involved.

00:12:51.600 --> 00:13:05.759
Love to Move is a seated exercise program designed for people living with Parkinson's, dementia or reduced mobility, helping to improve balance, coordination, and overwhelm overall well-being in a safe and social way.

00:13:06.320 --> 00:13:14.639
As part of this, they're looking to train new instructors locally, and the good news is you don't need any previous experience to take part.

00:13:14.799 --> 00:13:21.519
The aim is to bring more sessions into communities across the county, helping more people stay active and connected.

00:13:21.759 --> 00:13:30.799
If you're interested in becoming an instructor or take or want to take part in a community group that would like to run sessions, you can find more information and register your interest online.

00:13:31.200 --> 00:13:36.159
It's a really positive initiative and a great way to make a difference in your local community.

00:13:36.320 --> 00:13:39.279
And there'll be a link in the description at the bottom.

00:13:39.440 --> 00:13:44.559
As I always do, there'll be links for anything that needs it in the show.

00:13:44.799 --> 00:13:53.759
Now, the Cleave Bookshop is supporting National Year of Reading 2026 with a fantastic initiative to help local families.

00:13:54.000 --> 00:14:04.480
Throughout the whole of 2026, you can go into the shop and buy any children's book at half price, and that book will then be donated to the Gloucestershire Bundles.

00:14:04.720 --> 00:14:11.600
So you're not just getting a great deal, you're also helping provide books to families who might not otherwise have access to them.

00:14:11.840 --> 00:14:17.679
Gloucestershire Bundles supports over 800 families across the county, so this will make a real difference.

00:14:17.840 --> 00:14:21.759
It's a brilliant example of local businesses giving back to the community.

00:14:21.919 --> 00:14:26.399
And if you'd like to get involved, just pop into the Cleave Bookshop.

00:14:26.559 --> 00:14:31.360
And a quick thank you as well for them supporting the podcast by taking some of my bookmarks.

00:14:31.679 --> 00:14:32.879
I really appreciate it.

00:14:32.960 --> 00:14:35.519
So if you do pop in there, they're on the counter.

00:14:35.600 --> 00:14:36.480
There's not many.

00:14:36.720 --> 00:14:42.240
So if you uh do see them, do grab one and uh that'll be wonderful.

00:14:42.480 --> 00:14:47.679
Now, the I mentioned this last week, but I've been sent a press release, so I'm gonna mention it again.

00:14:47.840 --> 00:14:49.120
It's got more information.

00:14:49.279 --> 00:14:56.240
It's the Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre has found a new home and it's right in the heart of the town hall.

00:14:56.879 --> 00:15:08.080
The Cheltenham Trust has partnered with the Volunteer Run Service to bring in to the foyer of the Cheltenham Town Hall, where it's now open Monday and Saturday from 10am till 4 pm.

00:15:08.399 --> 00:15:15.519
The centre had previously been based in Cavernish House, and this move ensures the service continues after that closure.

00:15:15.759 --> 00:15:30.960
Now, if you're not used it before, the Tourist Information Centre offers town maps, brochures and personalised advice for visitors, and it is a clearly popular, with over a thousand people a month popping in for help and recommendations.

00:15:31.519 --> 00:15:42.080
It was originally set up by Sue and Patrick Oscroft as a community interest company and will now work alongside the Cheltenham Trust with support from the market in Cheltenham.

00:15:42.559 --> 00:15:53.679
Alongside this, the Town Hall is also supporting, starting to reopen its tickets office for in-person bookings currently on Mondays and Thursdays between 11 and 1.30.

00:15:53.919 --> 00:16:02.720
And if you're looking to get in if you're looking to get involved, the tourist information centre is always welcoming new volunteers with full training provided.

00:16:02.879 --> 00:16:10.799
So if you're interested, please speak to one of the team at the town hall, or you can email them at admin at cheltenham touristcentre.

00:16:12.240 --> 00:16:15.039
So if you'd like to get involved, they'd love to hear from you.

00:16:15.200 --> 00:16:17.600
And you can find them, as I say, inside of the town hall.

00:16:17.840 --> 00:16:23.200
They are now open and ready to help both visitors and locals make the most of Cheltenham.

00:16:23.759 --> 00:16:31.759
Now, just before we do move on, I was around town putting out some coasters I'd made in the local pub.

00:16:31.840 --> 00:16:44.879
So I want to put a big thank you to the King's Head in Bishops Cleave, the Bayes Hill, the Mad Dog Brewery Company pub, and all the others who recently put out my all things Cheltenham coasters for their customers.

00:16:45.039 --> 00:16:47.600
I really, really, really do appreciate their support.

00:16:47.679 --> 00:16:49.360
I've still got a couple of pubs to go.

00:16:49.519 --> 00:16:57.120
It means people across Cheltenham hopefully are discovering what's going on locally with news, sport, and events and so on.

00:16:57.200 --> 00:17:02.399
So if you do spot one, I don't know why I'm saying this, because if you haven't seen it, you wouldn't be listening to this.

00:17:02.480 --> 00:17:07.359
But anyway, if you do spot one uh while you're out and about, give it a scan.

00:17:07.839 --> 00:17:12.160
Okay, it's now time for the first guest of the week.

00:17:12.319 --> 00:17:23.759
And I sat down and chatted with Andy Ray, and we were talking about the dark side of the owls festival, which takes place in the Stanford Park Alehouse.

00:17:23.839 --> 00:17:27.119
So, as they say on TV, run VT.

00:17:27.440 --> 00:17:33.039
Welcome Andy Ray from the Dark Side of the Owl Festival to All Things Cheltenham.

00:17:33.359 --> 00:17:34.720
Thank you for joining us.

00:17:35.039 --> 00:17:35.599
Hello, Raj.

00:17:35.839 --> 00:17:36.799
Yeah, how are you doing?

00:17:37.279 --> 00:17:38.240
I'm doing well.

00:17:38.400 --> 00:17:46.160
I I when you gave me the title, I'm so sorry, but I really thought you basically Darth Vader had suddenly started making owls.

00:17:46.400 --> 00:17:46.559
Yeah.

00:17:46.880 --> 00:17:57.119
I mean, the dark side, I mean, you know what's gonna have to be asked, but what is the dark side of the owl festival first, and then I'll ask the obvious question.

00:17:57.359 --> 00:17:57.599
Thank you.

00:17:57.680 --> 00:18:00.799
Yeah, I mean, the uh Darth Vader inspired, I would take.

00:18:00.960 --> 00:18:07.759
Um definitely when I was thinking about the pub quiz, we were like, how can we do four rounds involving the dark side that isn't just ale?

00:18:08.240 --> 00:18:12.240
And yeah, uh, you can imagine uh we've had a lot of fun with this name.

00:18:12.400 --> 00:18:23.599
So, yeah, uh the inspiration really was um so my background is in festivals, I run 2000 Trees Festival, I work freelance to lots of events in Cheltenham, the science, jazz, literature, and so on.

00:18:23.839 --> 00:18:28.799
And um I just wanted to do something that was more community-based, so it's free.

00:18:28.960 --> 00:18:30.160
Uh and wonderful.

00:18:30.559 --> 00:18:42.160
The um every element, if you like, is is around this name, the dark side of the ale, because it is a it's a pub that's a camera award-winning pub, which is championing real ale.

00:18:42.640 --> 00:18:49.039
Um, and uh so you know it's a collaboration between me, um programming all of the stuff that we bring in.

00:18:49.200 --> 00:19:03.359
There's uh we can go into that, and the pub, uh Andrew Coates, who's the the manager there, um, saying, Well, we've got a venue, let's do a let's do a local festival, it's free to attend, lots of fun stuff happening, and championing uh Dark Ale.

00:19:03.759 --> 00:19:04.960
So, Dark Side of the Ale.

00:19:05.359 --> 00:19:09.119
And obviously that was a great title because of Pink Floyd.

00:19:10.319 --> 00:19:12.000
Oh, right, Dark Side of the Moon.

00:19:12.400 --> 00:19:12.960
Am I right?

00:19:13.119 --> 00:19:14.640
Yes, I remember.

00:19:15.759 --> 00:19:19.759
It's kind of prog inspired, and we can say Darth Vader inspired if you like.

00:19:19.839 --> 00:19:23.839
Uh given that Dark Side of the Moon was probably where Darth Vader was hiding.

00:19:24.160 --> 00:19:27.440
Um but uh but yeah, I'm I'm I'm having fun.

00:19:27.599 --> 00:19:32.319
You know, um we we're definitely bringing in a lot of prog inspired music.

00:19:32.559 --> 00:19:37.279
Um and uh yeah, uh you know, the whole thing is themed around this dark side.

00:19:37.440 --> 00:19:39.680
So uh welcome to the dark side, Reg.

00:19:40.319 --> 00:19:41.119
Yes, yes.

00:19:41.279 --> 00:19:45.920
I've uh I've been called different things and I've been welcome to different things for the first time for the dark side.

00:19:46.000 --> 00:19:46.880
So there we go.

00:19:47.200 --> 00:19:52.480
Um I was gonna say what inspired you to do this, but I thought you pretty much covered it really.

00:19:53.200 --> 00:19:56.559
Well, it's just um yeah, I I think uh I love events.

00:19:56.640 --> 00:19:59.440
Uh I've found myself very much a collaborative person.

00:19:59.519 --> 00:20:03.279
I love working in teams, uh I I teach events as well.

00:20:03.519 --> 00:20:08.559
Um so I basically live festivals and events as and if I could do that year round, I would.

00:20:08.720 --> 00:20:10.000
And there's a gap in spring.

00:20:10.079 --> 00:20:20.160
Uh obviously we've got the races on at the moment, but I just thought it'd be nice to do something local, uh, not have to travel, just something that's good for my community where I, you know, I live in work in Chatland.

00:20:20.319 --> 00:20:22.559
So um that's that's what we did.

00:20:22.640 --> 00:20:28.559
Um I picked a great pub, it's an award-winning camera pub, and they they take their beers seriously in there.

00:20:28.640 --> 00:20:34.880
I don't know if you know much about it Oh yeah, I know I I I know well I I'm not a drinker, but I know the pub, and they do.

00:20:34.960 --> 00:20:39.680
They have an awful lot of real L's, they have probably more than most pubs, to be honest.

00:20:40.000 --> 00:20:45.359
Well, they're bringing in more than 50 dark beers, particularly, and they've got dark spirits and all sorts.

00:20:45.599 --> 00:20:49.839
I mean, the first thing one of my friends said to me is, Oh, you've picked the worst kind of drink for me.

00:20:49.920 --> 00:20:50.960
I don't like dark ale.

00:20:51.279 --> 00:20:52.880
And I said, That's not the point.

00:20:53.200 --> 00:20:57.440
You can try whatever you like, you can have a soft drink, you can go uh and and not drink anything.

00:20:57.680 --> 00:21:03.839
My my remit in this, um, alongside the great food and drink, is to bring in all of the arts stuff.

00:21:04.000 --> 00:21:08.160
So I've curated a program that's along the themes that we've talked about.

00:21:08.319 --> 00:21:16.160
Um, and just to give you an example, we're kicking off on the Monday with um This Is Spinal Tap, the original movie.

00:21:16.319 --> 00:21:26.000
Um sort of champions that kind of 70s heyday of rock, if you like, uh, alongside bands like Pink Floyd.

00:21:26.079 --> 00:21:27.279
So that was a no-brainer.

00:21:27.359 --> 00:21:30.880
We've got a movie night, and yeah, come along and uh enjoy a free movie.

00:21:31.200 --> 00:21:33.839
That's that's the good one to start with, as they say.

00:21:34.000 --> 00:21:37.680
Now, I'm not a drinker, as I say, and I'm I've never really been a drinker.

00:21:37.839 --> 00:21:47.759
So I'm guessing Dark Side of the L is that owls that are darker in colour, or is is it is there a particular style of owl that's just known as the dark side?

00:21:47.920 --> 00:21:48.799
Well by any chance.

00:21:49.119 --> 00:21:59.759
Yeah, I'm definitely not in my comfort zone being someone who's done the programme rather than the bitters, but um I have got a list in front of me, uh which I won't read out, but um Portous, things like Guinness.

00:22:00.319 --> 00:22:05.680
Stouts, Ruby Miles, and then Best Bitter.

00:22:05.920 --> 00:22:07.839
That's basically your range of dark beers.

00:22:08.960 --> 00:22:11.200
Right, it sounds like the ones that are darker in colour.

00:22:11.759 --> 00:22:19.200
You'd have uh the sort of old school flat beer in the in the typical, stereotypical tankered, um, you know, those kind of ales.

00:22:19.359 --> 00:22:22.319
Um, but I mean I'm just looking at some of the names.

00:22:22.480 --> 00:22:26.079
Uh Dark Side of the Moose, Dark Ale, caught my attention.

00:22:26.319 --> 00:22:28.319
Crunch peanut stout.

00:22:28.880 --> 00:22:31.440
Um so these these are lovely names.

00:22:31.759 --> 00:22:33.519
Egyptian cream, oatmeal.

00:22:33.599 --> 00:22:35.920
I mean, they put in all sorts of ingredients in.

00:22:36.319 --> 00:22:41.920
Uh, and then there's the um what you might call the more modern keg beers, which have just basically put some fizz in.

00:22:42.000 --> 00:22:44.319
I'd say that revolution of beer came along.

00:22:44.640 --> 00:22:53.279
Camera won't be a fan of this, uh, but came along with sort of the the brewdog and the punk IPA and that sort of new wave of craft beers.

00:22:53.359 --> 00:22:58.960
Uh, and in there there's dark lagers now, there's black IPAs, uh dry stouts.

00:22:59.039 --> 00:23:03.440
I I mean I'm the toffee, Cinder Toffee stout sounds right up my street.

00:23:03.680 --> 00:23:05.839
Um, it's almost a dessert, isn't it?

00:23:06.079 --> 00:23:07.440
Yeah, it sounds it, yeah.

00:23:09.839 --> 00:23:21.039
And then just to sum up, finish on beers, we've got some German beers, we've got some Belgian stouts, we've got some strong Belgian triples, which are triple distilled, uh, some Czech lagers that are dark.

00:23:21.119 --> 00:23:24.559
I mean, there's all sorts of I I didn't know we had English trappists.

00:23:24.720 --> 00:23:26.559
I assumed that was a Belgian thing.

00:23:26.720 --> 00:23:27.759
We there's all sorts.

00:23:27.920 --> 00:23:29.279
I mean, there's there's more than 50.

00:23:29.359 --> 00:23:30.559
There's a couple from America.

00:23:30.720 --> 00:23:40.000
There's I mean, oh I I'm not a a huge drinker, but I'm gonna try as many of those as I can just to get a flavour of what dark ale is.

00:23:40.079 --> 00:23:49.920
I think it's a celebration of trying something and uh and and yeah, having a having a go at like what is this world that I don't understand or don't know?

00:23:50.079 --> 00:23:51.680
So um I'll see you there.

00:23:51.759 --> 00:23:54.799
We'll have a half of peanut butter stout together or something, shall we?

00:23:55.359 --> 00:23:56.559
That sounds interesting, doesn't it?

00:23:57.119 --> 00:24:02.160
If you're plan on going, if you're planning on trying a lot all these, I hope your festival runs for about a month.

00:24:02.319 --> 00:24:02.720
Yeah, I think.

00:24:02.960 --> 00:24:03.680
Because you're gonna need it.

00:24:03.920 --> 00:24:05.359
I don't know if I'm gonna try all of them.

00:24:05.440 --> 00:24:07.759
Yeah, I it's uh glamie.

00:24:07.920 --> 00:24:09.359
But um take a while.

00:24:09.599 --> 00:24:10.079
Do you know what?

00:24:10.160 --> 00:24:12.480
If there's any left over at the end, I might be there for a month.

00:24:12.559 --> 00:24:13.119
You never know.

00:24:13.359 --> 00:24:14.000
Uh yeah.

00:24:14.240 --> 00:24:17.119
I'm talking about how how long is the festival gonna run for?

00:24:17.200 --> 00:24:18.720
And when it's seven nights.

00:24:18.799 --> 00:24:20.799
Yeah, it starts uh a week on Monday.

00:24:20.960 --> 00:24:23.839
So when this when this comes out, it'll be a week a week on Monday.

00:24:23.920 --> 00:24:28.480
Um starts on the Monday with the uh movie night, and then the Tuesday we've got a quiz.

00:24:28.559 --> 00:24:37.519
We've got uh a local comedian, compare called Shirley Holse, who is uh runs alternative book club, um, who is brilliant and works.

00:24:37.599 --> 00:24:48.480
Uh I uh I take her if if that's the wrong word, uh I I work with her at lots of festivals and and um wherever possible try and get Shirley on the bill because she's she's brilliant.

00:24:48.640 --> 00:24:50.960
And so that's the Tuesday.

00:24:51.039 --> 00:24:52.480
Uh it goes right the way through.

00:24:52.559 --> 00:25:01.119
We've got some music, some other comedy, uh right through to the Sunday night, finishing with um uh some uh a comedy night basically.

00:25:01.200 --> 00:25:04.319
What what better way to round things off than a good jolly good laugh?

00:25:04.480 --> 00:25:07.920
And uh that'll be that'll be great.

00:25:08.079 --> 00:25:12.400
By the time you get to the the end of the end of the period, everyone will be drunk and the comedy will seem even funnier.

00:25:12.640 --> 00:25:17.039
Oh yeah, once you uh yeah, I forgot to mention once you come in, you're not allowed to leave till Sunday night.

00:25:17.200 --> 00:25:22.240
So uh entry only, exit not possible.

00:25:22.559 --> 00:25:24.319
Exit once it's gone, sorry.

00:25:24.640 --> 00:25:28.079
Um yeah, no, it'll it'll be uh something for everyone, hopefully.

00:25:28.240 --> 00:25:30.720
Um I'm really looking forward to the some of the music.

00:25:30.880 --> 00:25:42.720
Now I haven't talked about that yet, but obviously I've got some of the Cheltenham bands like Death is a Girl and uh Hats, which are in the sort of rock and and I as close to prog as I can get.

00:25:42.799 --> 00:25:50.799
There's a couple of songs from um uh a guy called James Chatfield, who's actually from slightly out, he's from Mulvern.

00:25:50.960 --> 00:25:56.240
He's a guitarist that does loops, and you know, I could just listen to it, it's mesmerizing, listen to it for an hour.

00:25:56.400 --> 00:26:09.680
Like how prog music used to be uh when when it was in its heyday, people would just chill out and listen to it the whole album, start to finish, maybe put headphones on and just immerse themselves.

00:26:10.000 --> 00:26:18.480
And yeah, these days with the the changes of um 24-7 digital, watch when you like culture, listen when you like culture.

00:26:18.720 --> 00:26:21.759
So there's no substitute for live bands, is what I'm trying to say.

00:26:21.839 --> 00:26:26.240
And these guys are gonna come and hopefully be mesmerizing and lots of fun.

00:26:26.400 --> 00:26:28.960
Um yeah, definitely.

00:26:29.039 --> 00:26:34.480
That that you know, live music is is another level compared to listening at home.

00:26:34.640 --> 00:26:54.319
I mean, you can't that's why they have that lost that um sound lost lost sound thing that they this the audio, they they try and make it as near real as possible, but you can't replace being at an event or a venue or whatever, a theatre, and have the live music, it completely makes a whole different sound to it.

00:26:54.640 --> 00:26:55.839
Yeah, it's the intricacies.

00:26:55.920 --> 00:27:05.440
I don't know if you notice this, but when I look at a particular instrument, and this is not uncommon, I'm not saying like that this is unusual, but you know, you focus on a guitar, you start to hear the guitar more.

00:27:05.599 --> 00:27:12.400
So there's something about being able to see the performance that can you can appreciate the the the practice that's gone into it, frankly.

00:27:12.480 --> 00:27:13.759
Some of these some of these bands.

00:27:13.839 --> 00:27:17.200
I mean, uh Joe Green is um a Cheltenham legend to me.

00:27:17.359 --> 00:27:27.119
He's been in lots of bands, he's played at my festival a bunch of times, he's been around for a long time, and I still love his voice, which is still as great as it was when I first heard it like 15 years ago.

00:27:27.279 --> 00:27:32.160
So he's coming on a Friday night to headline with his band, and it's just gonna be so much fun.

00:27:32.400 --> 00:27:42.160
Uh I I will say that the fact that this is a free event means that I can book bands that I really and artists that I really want to see for me.

00:27:42.240 --> 00:27:49.519
So there's a slight element of self-indulgence there, but on the basis of hopefully it fits the theme, they're good, you know.

00:27:50.079 --> 00:27:50.480
Yeah.

00:27:50.799 --> 00:27:54.880
So this, I believe, is the first one of the dark side of the owls.

00:27:55.200 --> 00:27:57.279
Brand new, yeah, it's a brand new festival.

00:27:57.359 --> 00:27:58.880
Uh really excited.

00:27:59.200 --> 00:28:04.079
So hopefully, if it goes well, you'll bring it back each year, or is that the plan?

00:28:04.319 --> 00:28:05.039
I'd imagine so.

00:28:05.119 --> 00:28:12.880
It's something will it move round to different bars or will you keep it at the one you you're doing now, which gone completely out of my head at the moment.

00:28:13.279 --> 00:28:14.880
No, it's uh names are terrible.

00:28:15.200 --> 00:28:26.079
It's definitely a collaboration with the Sanford Park Alehouse because um Andrew Coates, who's there, and I had a chat, developed the idea and came up with this concept.

00:28:26.160 --> 00:28:30.559
And it's so it's it's it's their event, and I'm programming it, if that makes sense.

00:28:30.720 --> 00:28:31.359
I'm not taking it.

00:28:31.680 --> 00:28:31.920
Yeah, yeah.

00:28:32.160 --> 00:28:36.400
I don't think it's I mean it's a collaboration, but I'm not I'm not really thinking in those terms.

00:28:36.480 --> 00:28:40.240
This is just a lot of fun and uh should be a really good event.

00:28:40.400 --> 00:28:42.480
So yeah, I'd love to keep it going.

00:28:42.640 --> 00:28:46.960
I've had loads of fun programming artists, talking talking to comedians.

00:28:47.039 --> 00:28:57.519
I we've got on Sunday night, we've got Eva Binderman, who um when Shirley Hulse, who is common comparing, she's from Cheltenham, said we've got Eva.

00:28:57.599 --> 00:28:58.799
I was absolutely blown away.

00:28:58.880 --> 00:29:07.279
She won the Leicester Comedy Award in 2024, and previous winners are like household names you would know, Rod Gilbert, Josh Whitakam, Romersprung, and Ethan.

00:29:07.680 --> 00:29:14.400
So I there was just a lot those moments of excitement when you go, someone they said yes, brilliant, I'm so happy.

00:29:14.640 --> 00:29:20.559
I've had those for the last month or two, and that feeling is like it's why we do it, I suppose.

00:29:20.799 --> 00:29:21.680
Forget the hard work.

00:29:22.079 --> 00:29:27.519
Like when you when you get a lineup that you want, it's really, really it feels it's really satisfying, rewarding.

00:29:27.759 --> 00:29:30.960
I would I'd imagine you get that when you do the tree festival as well.

00:29:33.039 --> 00:29:34.000
How long's that been going?

00:29:34.319 --> 00:29:35.200
Uh good segue.

00:29:35.359 --> 00:29:37.759
2003 started in 2007.

00:29:38.240 --> 00:29:41.440
Myself and five friends started that festival.

00:29:41.680 --> 00:29:44.319
Uh, the six friends, six of us are still involved.

00:29:44.480 --> 00:29:48.880
Um, and it's uh yeah, it's getting on for 20 years nearly.

00:29:49.039 --> 00:29:54.400
So um that now has become more of a business in the sense that it's year-round.

00:29:54.559 --> 00:30:04.400
So it's actually 14 months that we program the bands, and that means that a couple of months before this year's event, we'll start putting out offers for next year.

00:30:04.559 --> 00:30:18.720
So there's this overlap of a couple of months, and there's been times when phone calls are coming in during the setup of the festival, you're in a field, and you find out that you've booked next year's headliner already, and it's just yeah, that same it's exactly the same.

00:30:18.960 --> 00:30:33.359
Um, and I, you know, I talk to my students, I I teach events and music business and uh in in in the University of Gloucester and further afield, but uh they will say, Well, it's not the same as you, and I'll say, No, it is the same, it's the same feeling.

00:30:33.519 --> 00:30:42.319
The scale is different, but the say it's that joy of like I've I've got something that I've got something right, or I've got something that I know people are gonna love, you know.

00:30:42.400 --> 00:30:44.960
And that's that's down to the artists, you know.

00:30:45.119 --> 00:30:46.880
All I'm doing is giving them a platform.

00:30:47.039 --> 00:30:51.200
They are the they are the wondrous people that make us feel good.

00:30:51.359 --> 00:30:52.319
Uh yeah.

00:30:52.480 --> 00:30:55.759
So it it is it is wonderful.

00:30:55.839 --> 00:31:05.440
I mean, even when I get sort of, you know, the podcast is fairly new in the sense of podcast, this is this is brand new as such, you know, it's a few months old, but it's a baby in the podcasting world.

00:31:05.599 --> 00:31:16.799
But even getting sort of, you know, even getting a message from you saying you wanted to come on was oh wonderful, you know, because it's another guest, you know, so everyone is is a bonus to me at the moment, you know.

00:31:16.960 --> 00:31:22.160
In three or four or five years' time I'll still have the same feeling, but it won't be as exciting.

00:31:22.319 --> 00:31:25.680
It'll still be exciting to me because they always get that like you do, you know.

00:31:25.839 --> 00:31:27.359
Um, because you never know.

00:31:27.519 --> 00:31:30.960
I mean, I don't generally try not to look up much about what they do.

00:31:31.200 --> 00:31:33.599
I like to find out as we're talking.

00:31:33.680 --> 00:31:47.039
Yeah so then I think up the questions because then it's questions that I hope the listeners would want to ask, rather than the more sort of you know, top level questions, which everyone's like, that's great, but what does he have for breakfast sort of thing, you know?

00:31:47.279 --> 00:31:48.400
So you know, yeah.

00:31:48.640 --> 00:31:53.680
So it's it's you know, I try and get the more general ones, so it's it is nice to sort of get that.

00:31:53.839 --> 00:31:58.319
But uh what the answer is for scrap scrambled eggs and avocado this morning.

00:31:58.880 --> 00:32:07.759
Um yeah, but also I I love podcasts, I I spend a lot of time with headphones on, and um this medium uh reminds me of radio.

00:32:07.839 --> 00:32:20.160
You know, when I used to have a radio in the car, so I still have a radio in the car, but uh driving for hours, things like the cricket, listen on a long journey and listening to the cricket, and just the the joy of people enjoying themselves and having a chat.

00:32:20.319 --> 00:32:24.960
It's so communal and and small, and you almost feel like you're in a room with them.

00:32:25.039 --> 00:32:32.400
And so this format I absolutely love because I don't have to think, I can talk as I go, and yeah, yeah, you're having a chat, it's lovely.

00:32:32.480 --> 00:32:35.440
Um, yeah, it is, it is, it's really it's really nice.

00:32:35.519 --> 00:32:37.200
So no, no, I I I love it.

00:32:37.279 --> 00:32:41.359
I love I love having guests on, you know, it's just it makes my life easier as such.

00:32:41.440 --> 00:32:44.799
It sounds mad, but it does because I haven't got a talk all by myself.

00:32:45.119 --> 00:32:48.799
So me cats look at me sometimes and go, what are you doing?

00:32:49.119 --> 00:32:58.720
So so anyway, we've got the Dark Side of the Owl festival coming up very soon, which is brilliant.

00:32:58.960 --> 00:33:00.160
And I'll have to pop there.

00:33:00.240 --> 00:33:01.359
What what did you mention?

00:33:01.759 --> 00:33:02.559
Did you mention the times?

00:33:02.640 --> 00:33:05.519
Because the timing, I'm not sure if you mentioned times or when it's open.

00:33:05.920 --> 00:33:11.119
Yeah, so um the the pubs will be open all day, but the programme of the events is in the evening.

00:33:11.359 --> 00:33:17.279
So it's March the 23rd to the 29th, picking off roughly about seven o'clock each night.

00:33:17.519 --> 00:33:26.640
Um the pubs will be open, so if you're coming straight from work and you want to pop in and try a uh I can't think of a random name of a beer right now, but like a peanut, the peanut the peanut flavoured ones.

00:33:26.799 --> 00:33:28.799
Oh you've got to give that a go, haven't you?

00:33:28.960 --> 00:33:31.039
The Cinder Toffee, I think, sounds good.

00:33:31.119 --> 00:33:32.559
Uh sounds interesting.

00:33:32.960 --> 00:33:35.680
I've got one as a starter and one as a dessert, and then go home.

00:33:35.759 --> 00:33:39.359
But um, yeah, uh there's food as well, I should mention.

00:33:39.599 --> 00:33:47.440
They are putting on, they've got chefs, they've got um uh regular chefs that come and do take kitchen takeovers, they're coming in the week.

00:33:47.599 --> 00:33:50.960
We've got chicken coops from Ben Cooper on the Monday, Tuesday.

00:33:51.039 --> 00:33:58.880
I I won't go too much into it, but there's loads of nice dark ale-themed food, and some of them are putting some dark ale into the sauces and things.

00:33:58.960 --> 00:34:01.200
So they've really gone to town on that theme.

00:34:01.359 --> 00:34:02.960
The food and drink is all there.

00:34:03.119 --> 00:34:09.920
Um so yeah, come on down and um most of the bands and most of the events kick off about 7:30.

00:34:10.320 --> 00:34:11.039
That's brilliant.

00:34:11.199 --> 00:34:14.000
I'm assuming you'll be there pretty much every evening.

00:34:14.320 --> 00:34:18.000
I am hoping to get a golden pass for the week.

00:34:18.320 --> 00:34:20.159
But let's be realistic.

00:34:20.239 --> 00:34:22.960
I I have also uh responsibilities at home.

00:34:23.119 --> 00:34:29.119
But yeah, I I'm intending to be there every day um for some time, and obviously I want to see what I've booked.

00:34:29.199 --> 00:34:35.840
Uh you know, the joy of the second joy after they've said yes, I will play or perform, is I get to see them.

00:34:35.920 --> 00:34:37.920
So yeah, I'll be there.

00:34:38.480 --> 00:34:39.599
Which is wonderful.

00:34:39.760 --> 00:34:40.320
It's great.

00:34:40.400 --> 00:34:44.000
It's really nice to have you on, and uh it's nice to chat with you.

00:34:44.079 --> 00:34:48.960
I mean, I've seen I know you I knew the free festival, and I knew obviously you were doing this.

00:34:49.039 --> 00:34:52.159
I didn't realise you were involved in the other festivals in town.

00:34:52.639 --> 00:35:05.280
Yeah, well, I'm freelance, so um I basically quit my job in PR and marketing to go freelance in events because I am, I realize, uh uh a sort of collaborator, a team player, a mentor.

00:35:05.519 --> 00:35:11.840
I like developing people, I work in and empowering people, and and all of those things makes me a team player.

00:35:12.000 --> 00:35:13.920
And events is a place for teams.

00:35:14.079 --> 00:35:25.440
Um I'm really happy and I'm I'm really lucky that lots of festivals uh I but but the Chapman festivals, I I go in, I manage a stage at Jazz and I manage a venue at and then I get out.

00:35:25.519 --> 00:35:33.679
So I'm not full-time, um, but I love that freelance life for events is um is cool, and then all summer I I work at summer festivals.

00:35:33.760 --> 00:35:36.159
I was at Glastonbury last year, which was Ace.

00:35:36.559 --> 00:35:42.800
Uh I go up and down the country, do a few festivals in the summer, and then teach it through the through the winter.

00:35:42.880 --> 00:35:44.800
So you're a very busy person.

00:35:45.039 --> 00:35:46.400
Good mix, yeah.

00:35:46.639 --> 00:35:47.039
Yeah.

00:35:47.199 --> 00:35:51.840
And I say you can't really be in much of a better place for festivals than Cheltenham.

00:35:51.920 --> 00:35:53.760
I mean, there's virtually one every month.

00:35:54.079 --> 00:35:55.920
I mean, it's it's insane.

00:35:56.159 --> 00:35:58.880
I was delighted when they called Cheltenham the festival town.

00:35:58.960 --> 00:36:01.119
I was like, right, well, that's perfect for me.

00:36:01.280 --> 00:36:02.719
So uh that set you up.

00:36:02.800 --> 00:36:05.679
That's that's that's gotta be your your your catch line, isn't it?

00:36:05.840 --> 00:36:10.719
Festival Cheltenham Festival is you know, it's gotta be, you're under your catch line for you.

00:36:10.960 --> 00:36:11.760
That's wonderful.

00:36:11.920 --> 00:36:21.840
Thank you so much for coming to tell us about the dark side of the L Festival at the Stanford Park Ale House from the 23rd, did you say?

00:36:22.159 --> 00:36:23.199
That's my 23rd of March.

00:36:24.000 --> 00:36:25.920
The 23rd to the 29th of March, yeah.

00:36:26.079 --> 00:36:26.639
Stanford Park.

00:36:27.119 --> 00:36:32.079
That sounds wonderful, and hopefully, loads of people will join us there.

00:36:32.239 --> 00:36:33.360
I will try and get down there.

00:36:33.440 --> 00:36:40.800
I don't get out in the evenings much because of my wife not being well, but I will uh I only live literally, and I genuinely live about two minutes away.

00:36:41.119 --> 00:36:43.199
I literally can see it from the front window.

00:36:43.440 --> 00:36:50.000
So I live across the road virtually, so I will pop down one evening, and it might be the evening you're there, so I'll come and say hello in person.

00:36:50.880 --> 00:36:51.840
That sounds great, yeah.

00:36:52.000 --> 00:36:53.360
Lovely to see it there.

00:36:53.519 --> 00:36:54.880
Um and thanks, yeah.

00:36:55.039 --> 00:36:56.559
I've really uh really enjoyed this.

00:36:56.719 --> 00:36:57.920
Nice to talk.

00:36:58.480 --> 00:37:04.400
Thank you so much, and have a great week, and hopefully, we'll meet up at the Stanford Park House.

00:37:04.960 --> 00:37:05.519
Bye for now.

00:37:05.679 --> 00:37:06.079
Bye.

00:37:06.480 --> 00:37:10.400
Okay, it was really great fun chatting to Andy, it really was.

00:37:10.559 --> 00:37:13.199
Um, and I'm not a drinker at all.

00:37:13.360 --> 00:37:18.800
Um, but it does sound some of those names of those um owls sound fascinating.

00:37:18.960 --> 00:37:31.679
So if you are free and want to have a bit of something different, why not pop down to the Stanford Park owlhouse and check out the Dark Side of the Owls Festival, which happens this next week.

00:37:31.840 --> 00:37:40.239
Now, the pub will be open as normal, and I believe it all kicks off from 7 pm each evening, and there's gonna be a range of things, as you heard on the chat.

00:37:40.320 --> 00:37:41.360
So do pop along.

00:37:41.440 --> 00:37:48.719
I'll be going down there probably Tuesday, Wednesday to see what's going on and um saying hello.

00:37:48.880 --> 00:37:56.159
So uh once again, big thank you for Andy Ray for coming on and giving us all that information.

00:37:56.800 --> 00:38:00.000
Right now, talk about coming on and giving information.

00:38:00.159 --> 00:38:07.920
It's now a time where I do have your say, but this week no one's contacted me, which is fair enough, not always.

00:38:08.239 --> 00:38:21.119
But if you want to contact the podcast directly, you can now do it, as I said, on WhatsApp using the link in the show notes, whether it's just a quick text or even a voice note, it's completely up to you.

00:38:21.280 --> 00:38:27.519
Um, if you want to just use the number, because I know people I've been told prefer just using the number, I'll give you that again.

00:38:27.599 --> 00:38:32.159
It's 074 66 855 738.

00:38:32.480 --> 00:38:37.440
And you can send something in and you might hear it featured on a future episode.

00:38:37.679 --> 00:38:42.719
Obviously, you can also email me at info at allthingscheltenham.co.uk.

00:38:43.119 --> 00:38:46.400
So get in touch through social media, leave a voice message.

00:38:46.559 --> 00:38:49.360
There is the have your say voicemail on my website.

00:38:49.440 --> 00:38:57.039
It's a little, or if you go to the web, if you go on your phone, you'll see a little blue tag that says have your say, you can leave a two-minute message that way.

00:38:57.280 --> 00:39:17.119
And if you've got a local event, community notice, something happening around Cheltenham, or if you run a business, charity organisation, sports club, and you'd like to come on the podcast as a guest, share news, press releases, announcements, please do feel free to get in touch via the email, social media, websites, WhatsApp, however you want to contact me.

00:39:17.440 --> 00:39:20.880
It would be lovely to hear from you all.

00:39:21.519 --> 00:39:24.639
Okay, moving on to events.

00:39:24.800 --> 00:39:26.880
And the first event is I need a sip of tea.

00:39:27.039 --> 00:39:33.119
So right, so what have we got coming up in Cheltenham for all you people that like going out to events?

00:39:33.280 --> 00:39:37.599
Well, we're gonna start off with our second guest of the week.

00:39:37.840 --> 00:39:50.800
And we I went, oh I didn't, uh I spoke to John, and he was telling me all about his not new, because it's been going for a few years here, but I didn't know there is a Cheltenham Gammon Club.

00:39:50.960 --> 00:39:53.760
So uh let's have a listen in to what he has to say.

00:39:54.000 --> 00:39:59.760
Welcome, John, from the Cheltenham Batgammon Club here in Cheltenham to all things Cheltenham.

00:40:00.079 --> 00:40:01.760
Thank you so much for joining us.

00:40:02.079 --> 00:40:02.719
Hi, Reg.

00:40:03.119 --> 00:40:04.559
Thank you for having me.

00:40:04.880 --> 00:40:05.760
That's my pleasure.

00:40:05.920 --> 00:40:09.440
It was wonderful to be contacted by you and you sort of surprised me.

00:40:09.519 --> 00:40:13.039
I didn't know there was even a Batgammon Club in Cheltenham.

00:40:13.679 --> 00:40:21.119
Yeah, I'm glad I surprised someone who cares about what's going on in Cheltenham because this is the point, isn't it?

00:40:21.280 --> 00:40:27.199
Of sharing something like this so that more people know what's available to them.

00:40:27.679 --> 00:40:30.800
It's it certainly is, and you know, I absolutely love Cheltenham.

00:40:30.880 --> 00:40:36.400
I've been here about around 20 years now, and I fell in love with the place, and I that's why I do this.

00:40:36.719 --> 00:40:46.320
It all may sound crazy, I do it all for free, I pay for it out of my own money, but I just love Cheltenham and love passing on the news and things like this, which I think are wonderful.

00:40:46.639 --> 00:40:47.920
So I agree with you.

00:40:48.079 --> 00:40:53.519
I've lived in Cheltenham a similar length of time to yourself, and I think it's quite a nice place.

00:40:53.679 --> 00:40:59.039
If you don't mind driving over potholes, everything else is pretty nice.

00:40:59.920 --> 00:41:01.199
Funny you should say that.

00:41:01.679 --> 00:41:02.960
Funny you should say that.

00:41:03.760 --> 00:41:09.760
There's a thing coming up about that on um on an episode very soon, what people have been contacting me about.

00:41:10.000 --> 00:41:12.480
Um so Batgammon.

00:41:12.880 --> 00:41:18.239
There's the the game that some people love, some people hate, and some people haven't got a clue what we're talking about.

00:41:18.400 --> 00:41:22.400
So, what made you start the Batgammon Club here in Cheltenham?

00:41:23.360 --> 00:41:26.719
So um, yeah, it's a long story.

00:41:26.880 --> 00:41:34.239
Um what made me start the club in Cheltenham was just the lack of a club in Cheltenham.

00:41:34.559 --> 00:41:47.440
Um if I wanted to play like regular organized backgammon, um I had to join backgammon clubs that were near but not local.

00:41:47.760 --> 00:41:52.159
So for example, I've done a few seasons playing in Worcester.

00:41:52.559 --> 00:42:03.280
I did one season playing in Birmingham, but when when you're playing face to face, these locations are quite far away to commit to regularly.

00:42:03.519 --> 00:42:03.840
Yeah.

00:42:04.079 --> 00:42:08.320
And I said to myself, I don't want to travel all the time.

00:42:08.559 --> 00:42:12.639
Let me try and start a backgammon club in Cheltenham.

00:42:13.119 --> 00:42:21.599
And um there's a backgammon federation in the UK, um, called the UK Batgamon Federation.

00:42:21.840 --> 00:42:22.480
Surprisingly.

00:42:23.440 --> 00:42:25.519
Some very fancy names coming up here.

00:42:26.000 --> 00:42:27.920
Yeah, we're we're nothing but obvious.

00:42:28.079 --> 00:42:32.639
Cheltenham Backgammon Club, United Kingdom Backgammon Federation.

00:42:32.880 --> 00:42:37.920
Um, and they supported me with the um the venture of starting.

00:42:38.079 --> 00:42:41.360
I found uh premises, um, which is a St.

00:42:41.519 --> 00:42:50.320
Stephen Social Club in the Tivoli area of Cheltenham, and they accommodate us there one night a week.

00:42:50.639 --> 00:42:54.239
And I just started advertising on Facebook.

00:42:54.400 --> 00:43:01.360
Um, I'm a bit of a dinosaur, so I don't really do the Instagram and TikTok uh stuff.

00:43:01.440 --> 00:43:05.199
I'm I'm a WhatsApp and Facebook kind of person.

00:43:06.000 --> 00:43:18.000
So, you know, I just started advertising as best I could with without even paying for like sponsored ads or anything, just joining local groups and advertising the club.

00:43:18.239 --> 00:43:30.000
And you know, two years on, we've had a steady trickle of players who oh I used to play backgammon, and they come and they join us.

00:43:30.159 --> 00:43:39.360
And yeah, it's it's been a fun curve, and I I'm very proud of the club where it is at this stage, yeah.

00:43:39.840 --> 00:43:40.960
That that's brilliant.

00:43:41.039 --> 00:43:45.920
So have you got a rough idea of how many members you've got, if you want to call them members or people that play?

00:43:46.239 --> 00:43:58.639
Um I can tell you we've got about eighteen regular players, and um I know that number because that's how many we have in our league system.

00:43:59.039 --> 00:44:12.239
And it was It was important to start a league system just to give some uh jeopardy and consequence to the matches we'd play amongst each other.

00:44:12.480 --> 00:44:27.760
If if there's no if there's no up or down, or it doesn't matter if you win or lose, uh the game can be a little bit um stale, but having a league with promotion and demotion, it gives you something to play for.

00:44:28.480 --> 00:44:28.719
Yeah.

00:44:29.199 --> 00:44:31.840
And that that's the system we've adopted.

00:44:32.000 --> 00:44:45.199
I must say though, I don't talk too much about I or me because I say to everyone at the club that it's a club for the players of the club.

00:44:46.480 --> 00:44:49.039
This is not John's backgammon club.

00:44:49.280 --> 00:44:58.559
I might I might have started it and I might do like the admin work for the club, but it's the players' club.

00:44:58.719 --> 00:45:06.239
So I tend to canvas opinion when we're deciding on different ideas we might come up with.

00:45:06.400 --> 00:45:14.800
I canvas opinion amongst the players and try to go with the what the majority and what feels best for everyone.

00:45:15.199 --> 00:45:17.280
Yeah, that's that's the same, similar to me.

00:45:17.360 --> 00:45:23.519
You know, I sort of do this, and it's yeah, it's it's I do it, but it's for Cheltenham community, it's not for me.

00:45:23.599 --> 00:45:24.639
You know, I love it.

00:45:24.800 --> 00:45:33.440
It's for for the people of Cheltenham, the listeners and in the community, the organizations, the charities, people like yourself who want to get the word out for what they do.

00:45:33.599 --> 00:45:37.679
I I think that's where that term labor of love comes from.

00:45:37.840 --> 00:45:40.800
I think I love backgammon.

00:45:41.039 --> 00:45:48.159
I hate it a lot as well because it's very frustrating, but I I can't stop playing it.

00:45:49.199 --> 00:45:51.760
Well, I suppose chess players have the same scenario.

00:45:51.840 --> 00:45:54.960
They love the chess, and yet at times it can be frustrating.

00:45:55.119 --> 00:46:00.320
So backgammon is so much more frustrating because of the dice element.

00:46:00.800 --> 00:46:02.880
It it's beyond your control.

00:46:03.039 --> 00:46:06.960
I do play chess as well, and if you make a mistake, you own up.

00:46:07.119 --> 00:46:10.800
Okay, I made a mistake, or your opponent played something brilliant.

00:46:11.039 --> 00:46:21.760
But if it's a roll of the dice, that's the difference between something going well or not, then you you get frustrated at the dice.

00:46:22.480 --> 00:46:28.559
I was actually gonna I was actually gonna ask in regards to not as a beginner, because when you're a beginner, you're learning.

00:46:28.639 --> 00:46:42.480
So there but you know, there must be to a certain degree strategy tactics on playing backgammon, there is with a lot of games, but is it more strategic and knowledge, or is it more luck of the dice?

00:46:42.719 --> 00:46:44.239
Or is it somewhere in the middle?

00:46:45.280 --> 00:46:46.719
That's a great question.

00:46:46.880 --> 00:46:56.079
And I think if you canvassed a lot of experienced backgammon players, you'd get different ends of the spectrum.

00:46:56.320 --> 00:46:58.639
Um, I I I'll give you mine.

00:46:59.760 --> 00:47:07.920
I think that the the luck factor is what determines the results more than anything.

00:47:08.400 --> 00:47:23.920
Um but obviously the more you know or the better you are, the more chance you have of not letting the luck go um, you know, like go against you.

00:47:24.079 --> 00:47:32.000
So I if you were a total beginner, you might get really lucky dice, but you don't know how to play them well.

00:47:32.239 --> 00:47:39.760
And me as an experienced player, I'd still be able to win, even though I haven't had the luckier dice of the game.

00:47:40.000 --> 00:47:42.639
So yeah, uh I hope that explains it a bit.

00:47:42.960 --> 00:47:44.800
Yeah, it's kind of it's kind of 50-50.

00:47:44.880 --> 00:47:48.159
The experience outweighs the obvious beginner.

00:47:48.239 --> 00:47:55.920
In any manner, even with a beginner, if you get lucky dice, if you don't know what you're doing and how to use those numbers, it ain't gonna make a blind bit of difference to you.

00:47:56.320 --> 00:48:01.760
Yeah, but if an experienced number, experienced player with lucky dice would thank you very much.

00:48:01.840 --> 00:48:03.679
I know exactly where I'm going and what I'm doing.

00:48:04.000 --> 00:48:15.440
But two experienced players playing each other, then the luck becomes more significant because they both know what they're doing, and it's just rarely the dice that determine it.

00:48:16.159 --> 00:48:20.239
Yeah, now talking about beginners and experienced players and so on.

00:48:20.400 --> 00:48:35.599
Um, if someone come along who had no idea, you know, knew Batgammon existed and had an idea of what it was, but didn't know a thing about it, would they be able to come along and join in and sort of would there be someone to show them the ropes, as they say, or show them the dice?

00:48:35.920 --> 00:48:37.119
Yes, definitely.

00:48:37.280 --> 00:48:54.480
Um we want to be welcoming to all levels of abilities from chotal beginners to you know any grandmasters, uh, you know, whoever's whoever's interested in the game, that's the kind of person we want to come and visit us.

00:48:54.800 --> 00:49:01.280
Um I would definitely take the time to show and educate and um advise.

00:49:01.760 --> 00:49:08.639
Um at the end of the day, not everyone plays a game to become the best at it.

00:49:08.960 --> 00:49:13.440
Some people just like the game and the social aspect of it.

00:49:13.599 --> 00:49:18.480
Yeah, I want I want the club to always be welcome to everyone.

00:49:18.639 --> 00:49:22.800
As long as you love backgammon, then the club's the place for you.

00:49:23.119 --> 00:49:26.559
Yeah, because I mean if you don't like batgammon, there's no point in playing backgammon.

00:49:27.119 --> 00:49:28.559
That would that would be pointless.

00:49:28.719 --> 00:49:39.280
Um now you say about the social side, yeah, you have um a sort of league league table, you say, in in the in there as well to make it a little bit more interesting.

00:49:39.519 --> 00:49:51.679
But so it is a social meeting place with backgammon, with a little bit of a little bit of a sort of competition there in in-house competition, just to make it a little bit more interesting.

00:49:52.000 --> 00:49:52.960
That's correct, yes.

00:49:53.039 --> 00:49:53.519
Yeah, yeah.

00:49:54.320 --> 00:49:56.159
Now yeah, carry on, sorry.

00:49:56.320 --> 00:49:58.079
Oh sorry, no, go go for it, go for it.

00:49:58.159 --> 00:49:58.880
What are we gonna say?

00:49:59.119 --> 00:50:12.079
I was gonna say that most times people who come for the first time, they'll always have another club member ready to play with them, to show them.

00:50:12.400 --> 00:50:31.280
Because if you play like uh home backgammon, you might not be exposed to the more organized structure and etiquette, because there is a degree of standard etiquette that's um required amongst the more serious players.

00:50:31.440 --> 00:50:37.199
So if you're not familiar with that, then we can help you uh, you know, adjust.

00:50:37.599 --> 00:50:38.559
Yeah, be like me.

00:50:38.639 --> 00:50:48.480
I mean, I know Batgam and like the basics, you know, but I don't know, I did no idea there was etiquette, and I didn't, you know, and I'm sure there's official rules that even I don't know.

00:50:48.559 --> 00:50:50.559
You know, I I've played it for fun, you know.

00:50:50.719 --> 00:50:53.280
I've never managed to beat the wife yet, but I play for fun.

00:50:54.400 --> 00:51:00.079
Yeah, you should you should come get some like a quiet practice at the club, and then you'll laugh.

00:51:00.480 --> 00:51:01.280
Maybe I should do that.

00:51:01.360 --> 00:51:07.280
Yeah, go along, get some practice from the master like yourself, and then come back and beat her, and it'd be so nice.

00:51:08.800 --> 00:51:10.960
Whatever motivation you need.

00:51:12.400 --> 00:51:19.280
Um, but you mentioned there's a federation of um Batgammon, and you mentioned you've got an in-house competition.

00:51:19.440 --> 00:51:19.840
Do they?

00:51:20.079 --> 00:51:22.559
I mean, I'm I'm guessing because everything seems to have it.

00:51:22.800 --> 00:51:26.960
Are there tournaments and big massive tournaments of Batgammon?

00:51:27.039 --> 00:51:32.320
Do the club, does the club get involved with that, or is that for people really at uh sort of your level and above?

00:51:32.639 --> 00:51:39.280
Yeah, so there's there's probably nearly two tournaments a month somewhere in the UK.

00:51:39.599 --> 00:51:43.199
Um the the schedule has got very busy.

00:51:43.599 --> 00:51:50.800
Um just at the end of February, I took a trip down to Torquay uh to go play a tournament there.

00:51:51.039 --> 00:52:07.199
And that was my first time being in Torquay, and Batgummon's great for exploring the countryside, really, going somewhere you you've never been before under the guise of playing backgammon, but you get to take in a bit of scenery.

00:52:07.440 --> 00:52:14.639
Um we we are going to have our very own little tournament um in June.

00:52:15.039 --> 00:52:28.400
So, you know, most clubs tend to at some point host an event where they welcome players from nearby to come uh nearby clubs to come and join them.

00:52:28.639 --> 00:52:39.440
Um we're going to be doing something like that in June, but um that's not the main purpose or that's not our main target as a club.

00:52:39.599 --> 00:52:44.320
Um I just want the Cheltenham Batgammon Club to be somewhere.

00:52:44.480 --> 00:52:48.000
If you like a game of backgammon, come and play with us.

00:52:48.320 --> 00:52:48.960
Yeah, yeah.

00:52:49.119 --> 00:52:55.360
I just I was I was just wondering because a lot of playoff people games have these tournaments and so on.

00:52:55.519 --> 00:52:57.920
I wonder whether Batgammon was one of them, and obviously it is.

00:52:58.239 --> 00:53:05.920
Definitely, yeah, there's world championships, there's tours, there's yeah, Batgammon is actually a growing game.

00:53:06.000 --> 00:53:23.599
Um since I started, I think it's growing and getting more popular, um, even amongst the younger generation, which we need because if it's only a bunch of old people who play, then what happens when they are no longer able to participate?

00:53:24.000 --> 00:53:25.679
Yeah, the younger ones don't know it.

00:53:26.000 --> 00:53:26.880
The younger ones won't.

00:53:27.119 --> 00:53:30.000
I've taught my kids, but they've got no interest in it.

00:53:30.079 --> 00:53:39.039
So so finding younger people who'd like to play is um it's a bit of a challenge because it's not like considered cool.

00:53:39.199 --> 00:53:41.599
Um also uh lady players.

00:53:41.840 --> 00:53:47.840
We we're overwhelmingly male um participants, it would seem.

00:53:48.159 --> 00:54:00.719
So I would I would hope that we try to provide a welcoming atmosphere so that um they don't ladies who want to play backgammon, and there are ladies who do enjoy backgammon.

00:54:00.880 --> 00:54:10.400
It's it's a game that everyone can play, but it's just maybe the environment that they don't they feel it's too male dominated.

00:54:10.800 --> 00:54:33.440
And so what might happen is we've got one or two ladies who are regular tenders, but then they don't uh there's not enough of them, then they they don't stay as long as but I you know I I'm always up for suggestions and feedback and I'll always look to improve.

00:54:33.519 --> 00:54:42.880
So if there's anything we can do to try to help address that um imbalance, um you know, we we're up for it.

00:54:42.960 --> 00:54:44.079
But yeah.

00:54:46.559 --> 00:54:48.079
It's not all ages.

00:54:48.559 --> 00:54:50.559
All ages, all sexes, welcome.

00:54:50.719 --> 00:54:51.440
Yeah, yeah.

00:54:51.840 --> 00:54:59.760
And and you don't even have to be serious, like you don't have to be a serious player, you just have to be someone who likes to play.

00:55:00.079 --> 00:55:07.039
Yeah, someone that enjoys playing or someone that wants to learn to play and then just do it as a social thing rather than a competitive thing.

00:55:07.119 --> 00:55:11.679
It's just to have fun with some friends who you get to know over a period of time.

00:55:11.920 --> 00:55:12.639
Yes, yeah.

00:55:12.800 --> 00:55:28.000
For me personally, the more I learnt about the game, the more fun I found it because I was now able to appreciate the the nuances of the different positions and the challenges, and that appealed to me.

00:55:28.159 --> 00:55:31.039
But yeah, that might not appeal to other people.

00:55:31.199 --> 00:55:43.440
And I've got club members who I could say you could have played this move better or in a different way, and they'll be like, Yeah, okay, but they're not bothered, they just play for fun.

00:55:43.840 --> 00:55:46.079
They're not worried whether they win, lose, or draw.

00:55:46.239 --> 00:55:46.800
No, no.

00:55:47.360 --> 00:55:47.840
That's the point.

00:55:48.000 --> 00:55:50.000
Can you can you get a draw in Batgammon?

00:55:50.320 --> 00:55:51.920
Not in a single match, no.

00:55:52.159 --> 00:55:52.480
Right.

00:55:52.719 --> 00:55:56.960
But our league system, we actually play each other twice.

00:55:57.360 --> 00:56:02.559
So you could get a draw result if you each win one of your matches.

00:56:02.800 --> 00:56:06.159
Yeah, but not in an actual game of Batgammon, it's it's not possible.

00:56:06.559 --> 00:56:13.280
No, it's not, and that's why typically you play to a total of points, and those points are odd numbers.

00:56:13.440 --> 00:56:16.159
So five, seven, nine, and yeah.

00:56:16.880 --> 00:56:20.320
So it can't you can't physically draw sort of thing in a game.

00:56:20.559 --> 00:56:21.280
No, no.

00:56:21.519 --> 00:56:23.119
That made life interesting, wouldn't it?

00:56:23.199 --> 00:56:25.199
No, you say about win-lose.

00:56:25.760 --> 00:56:27.760
Yeah, you say about you've been playing for a while.

00:56:27.920 --> 00:56:29.360
How long have you been playing?

00:56:29.599 --> 00:56:32.880
So people realize they're not coming to a club where someone who's been doing it for six months.

00:56:33.840 --> 00:56:39.760
All right, so my background experience is uh approaching 40 years.

00:56:40.000 --> 00:56:50.000
Um, obviously, I haven't taken it seriously throughout the 40 years, but uh that's from when I first learned to play, you know, it's been about that long.

00:56:50.400 --> 00:56:53.440
And um, so yes, I'm very experienced.

00:56:53.599 --> 00:56:57.840
I've traveled um globally to play backgammon.

00:56:58.159 --> 00:57:02.800
I've been to Turkey, I've been to Monte Carlo, I've been all over the UK.

00:57:03.039 --> 00:57:03.440
Wow.

00:57:03.679 --> 00:57:07.280
So, you know, I've attended competitions, tournaments.

00:57:07.440 --> 00:57:23.360
So, yes, I've I've been exposed to lots of different areas of the game, so I'm quite experienced, and I've tried to use all of that to help make the club a fun place for the people who come regularly to play with us.

00:57:23.679 --> 00:57:26.800
So you've definitely got some knowledge of the game, that's for sure.

00:57:27.039 --> 00:57:27.920
Yes, yes.

00:57:28.800 --> 00:57:31.840
Yeah, this is about the Cheltenham Backgammon Club.

00:57:31.920 --> 00:57:42.000
So I I I don't say too much, but I do I do rate myself as a player, even if the results don't reflect it.

00:57:43.039 --> 00:57:45.360
There's always somebody that can beat you, that's the thing.

00:57:45.519 --> 00:57:46.800
There's always somebody that can beat you.

00:57:47.840 --> 00:57:50.159
You could come for your first night and beat me.

00:57:50.239 --> 00:57:51.920
It's very lucky dice.

00:57:53.119 --> 00:57:54.079
Possible.

00:57:54.719 --> 00:57:57.039
It would need to be major lucky dice for us.

00:57:57.760 --> 00:57:59.440
I don't know how bad you are.

00:58:00.960 --> 00:58:02.559
Can you go backwards in backgammon?

00:58:02.639 --> 00:58:04.719
Because that's what I manage to do most of the time.

00:58:04.880 --> 00:58:09.760
So well, in a manner of speaking, yes, you should recirculate your check.

00:58:12.079 --> 00:58:14.800
Um, now it's wonderful talk with you, it really is.

00:58:14.960 --> 00:58:19.199
But the most important thing is when does the club meet?

00:58:19.519 --> 00:58:29.679
Okay, so at the moment, and I say at the moment because we used to meet on a Wednesday, but since the start of this year, we've been trying out a Tuesday.

00:58:30.000 --> 00:58:32.719
So we meet every Tuesday evening.

00:58:32.880 --> 00:58:43.199
Um, we normally arrive on site around seven o'clock, and um the barman kicks us out at half ten at the latest, and that's the St.

00:58:43.360 --> 00:58:45.840
Stephen's Social Club in Tivoli.

00:58:46.320 --> 00:59:00.159
Now it's a members' club, but um you get a few weeks of grace if you just want to come around and see what's happening, so you don't have to become a member immediately of the venue.

00:59:00.800 --> 00:59:07.280
But if you wanted to join us on a regular basis, you would need to become a member of the venue.

00:59:08.000 --> 00:59:18.000
Okay, so though you become a member of the Batgammon Club, you that's that's a separate thing to being a member of the actual or the actual building where you meet.

00:59:18.320 --> 00:59:19.039
Yes, yes.

00:59:19.199 --> 00:59:23.679
So joining the Chalknum Batgammon Club is free and open.

00:59:24.000 --> 00:59:29.760
But to be a regular at the venue, you'd have to become a member of the club.

00:59:29.920 --> 00:59:33.920
But it's it's a very cheaply priced membership.

00:59:34.079 --> 00:59:36.079
I think it's about a tenner for a year.

00:59:36.239 --> 00:59:42.159
And you you get some better prices at the little kiosk bar.

00:59:42.480 --> 00:59:49.519
So you'd you'd save over the year, you'd probably save your membership in those reduced prices.

00:59:49.679 --> 00:59:52.559
So we're talking nominal amounts.

00:59:52.719 --> 00:59:59.760
Um, I know times are tough for some people, and but you know, we're talking like a tenant for a year's membership.

00:59:59.840 --> 01:00:01.599
It's it's not unreasonable.

01:00:01.920 --> 01:00:08.320
And if you're gonna save the sort of two pence here and there on the bar by time you've done it for a year, you've you've covered your money.

01:00:08.880 --> 01:00:12.800
On a packet of crisp or a beer or what whatever takes your fans.

01:00:12.960 --> 01:00:18.559
And there's other facilities at the club which you could benefit from if you wanted to.

01:00:18.719 --> 01:00:20.639
It's not just backgammon there.

01:00:20.800 --> 01:00:22.079
So yes.

01:00:22.320 --> 01:00:22.559
Yeah.

01:00:22.800 --> 01:00:26.719
So that's the Tuesday evening at sort of 7.15 sort of thing.

01:00:28.719 --> 01:00:34.800
Up and um, you know, and then obviously, you know, right through to up to sort of 10:30, give or take, sort of thing.

01:00:35.280 --> 01:00:36.320
That's right, yes, yeah.

01:00:36.719 --> 01:00:46.400
And um I'm there, I'm there most weeks, and I try to be there to welcome new players, especially if I know in advance that they're coming.

01:00:46.639 --> 01:00:52.239
Um, but you know, like I said earlier, it's not my club, it's our club.

01:00:52.320 --> 01:00:58.079
So even if I'm not there, I know the other players, they're a really nice bunch of people.

01:00:58.320 --> 01:01:11.679
And if someone came, they would you know still welcome them and try and include them in in activities, yeah, even if there's no direct hierarchy of you know, person in the building.

01:01:11.920 --> 01:01:13.199
It's just yeah, yeah.

01:01:14.719 --> 01:01:17.599
A load of good friends having having a bit of fun playing Batgammon.

01:01:18.000 --> 01:01:22.159
A friendly get-together of people who enjoy Batgammon, correct.

01:01:22.400 --> 01:01:24.320
Um, you mentioned you're on Facebook.

01:01:24.480 --> 01:01:29.119
How what's the if people search for Facebook, would they just search for Cheltenham Batgammon Club?

01:01:29.280 --> 01:01:29.920
Would they find you?

01:01:30.159 --> 01:01:31.440
That's the bang on Red.

01:01:31.599 --> 01:01:32.880
That's how they can find that.

01:01:33.280 --> 01:01:41.599
And um I've I even managed to set up a like page on Weebly, which is like a free web hosting site.

01:01:41.920 --> 01:01:42.559
Oh, wonderful.

01:01:42.800 --> 01:01:53.519
So I think if you put even Cheltenham Batgammon Club into Google, the club page um that's hosted on there should pop up as well.

01:01:53.840 --> 01:01:54.480
Oh, brilliant.

01:01:54.639 --> 01:01:58.239
Well, I will I will locate both of them and I will put the links as folks know.

01:01:58.320 --> 01:02:04.000
I put links on my description in the podcast, so they will be on the description so people can find it directly from there.

01:02:04.719 --> 01:02:05.760
You won't even have to search.

01:02:06.239 --> 01:02:06.880
Fantastic.

01:02:06.960 --> 01:02:07.360
Thank you.

01:02:07.440 --> 01:02:11.679
Yeah, and obviously you can contact me to help you if you need help with the links.

01:02:11.760 --> 01:02:14.320
But yeah, if I can't find it, well, I'm sure I will.

01:02:14.719 --> 01:02:15.840
I sure will too.

01:02:16.320 --> 01:02:17.199
So let's see.

01:02:17.440 --> 01:02:25.119
Is there anything you would like to say to people if they're thinking about coming along before we wrap up and say goodbye?

01:02:25.679 --> 01:02:26.880
Um, yeah.

01:02:27.039 --> 01:02:37.280
If you enjoy backgammon, if you've ever played it, if you'd like to take it up, whatever level of experience you have, come and join us.

01:02:37.519 --> 01:02:39.519
You you just might like it.

01:02:40.079 --> 01:02:40.400
Yeah.

01:02:40.480 --> 01:02:48.719
Well, if you already play it and you enjoy it, you know you like it, then challenge challenge the people that are at the new Shelton and Batgammon Club.

01:02:48.800 --> 01:02:50.719
Well, it's not new, it's been out for a few years now, isn't it?

01:02:50.880 --> 01:02:54.559
You said I know, but if even in my mind, I still think it's new.

01:02:54.719 --> 01:02:58.079
But you're right, two years is not quite new anymore.

01:02:58.239 --> 01:02:59.760
But you know what?

01:02:59.920 --> 01:03:06.960
I'd love us to get so many people, I have to look for a new venue because we've outgrown our current one.

01:03:07.199 --> 01:03:13.119
That would be, I tell you what, in six months, a year's time, you come back to me and say we've had to find a new venue.

01:03:13.199 --> 01:03:16.480
I would I would chat with you again because it'd be amazing to do that.

01:03:16.559 --> 01:03:17.280
It really would play.

01:03:17.599 --> 01:03:20.880
I think that would definitely be Plus big success, yes.

01:03:21.199 --> 01:03:22.079
It certainly would.

01:03:22.159 --> 01:03:23.119
So there you go, folks.

01:03:23.199 --> 01:03:28.800
The Cheltenham Batgamman Club, not technically new, but it's his baby and it's still young to him.

01:03:28.960 --> 01:03:35.199
Um, why not go along and join John and the rest of the people of the Batgamman Club here in Cheltenham?

01:03:35.360 --> 01:03:37.760
The only one that we believe is in Cheltenham.

01:03:38.079 --> 01:03:42.239
So if you're a player, if you want to learn how to play, that's the place to go.

01:03:42.400 --> 01:03:44.559
Don't rely on your friends down the road.

01:03:45.280 --> 01:03:45.679
Definitely.

01:03:46.079 --> 01:03:47.119
Thank you so much, John.

01:03:47.519 --> 01:03:48.639
Thank you for having me, Reg.

01:03:49.440 --> 01:03:49.760
My pleasure.

01:03:53.519 --> 01:03:55.599
Because you I live in Cheltenham.

01:03:55.920 --> 01:03:59.840
So everything you're going to talk about is going to be relative to me, you know.

01:04:00.239 --> 01:04:00.800
I would hope so.

01:04:00.960 --> 01:04:01.599
I would hope so.

01:04:01.760 --> 01:04:03.679
Thank you so much and have a wonderful week.

01:04:03.920 --> 01:04:04.239
Thank you.

01:04:04.320 --> 01:04:04.800
You too.

01:04:04.960 --> 01:04:05.519
Goodbye.

01:04:05.840 --> 01:04:10.960
Okay, it really was fascinating to hear from John um about the Batgammon Club.

01:04:11.039 --> 01:04:19.199
Because I say, I mean, I play it not immensely, to be quite truthful, um, but I wouldn't have thought there was a Batgamon Club in Cheltenham.

01:04:19.440 --> 01:04:24.239
But there you go, there's lots of things happening in Cheltenham that you really are surprised about.

01:04:24.320 --> 01:04:26.639
I find I hear things that baffle me.

01:04:26.880 --> 01:04:29.039
So uh are you a Batgammon player?

01:04:29.199 --> 01:04:30.400
Do you play Batgammon?

01:04:30.639 --> 01:04:30.960
Let us know.

01:04:31.039 --> 01:04:34.000
It'd be interesting to see how many of you do play Batgammon.

01:04:34.400 --> 01:04:41.760
Now, if you're into your art or you just fancy something a little bit different to do in Cheltenham, this one might be worth checking out.

01:04:41.920 --> 01:04:55.280
It's the Fresh Art Fair is returning to Cheltenham Race Course this Friday the 24th through to Sunday the 26th of April, with a special private viewing on Thursday the 23rd.

01:04:55.599 --> 01:05:05.679
It's one of the UK's leading regional art fairs, bringing together over 50 galleries, around 500 artists, and thousands of original artworks, all under one roof.

01:05:05.840 --> 01:05:09.840
From paintings and prints to sculpture, glass and ceramics.

01:05:10.079 --> 01:05:12.239
What makes it really interesting is the mix.

01:05:12.400 --> 01:05:17.119
You've got emerging artists alongside world-famous names like Picasso, Hockney.

01:05:17.440 --> 01:05:22.880
So whether you're a serious collector or just one of a browse, there's something for everyone.

01:05:23.119 --> 01:05:32.400
There's also live artist demonstration, workshops where you can get creative yourself, plus a sculpture park outside featuring large-scale pieces.

01:05:32.719 --> 01:05:36.320
So it's more than just an exhibition, it's a full day out.

01:05:36.559 --> 01:05:39.920
And importantly, no racing, just art.

01:05:40.400 --> 01:05:43.519
So it's a completely different vibe at the race course.

01:05:43.679 --> 01:05:50.960
If you want to head along, keep an eye out for the ticket details with free entry for under 16s and plenty of parking available on site.

01:05:51.119 --> 01:05:52.639
So that's the fresh air.

01:05:53.039 --> 01:05:53.920
Start that again.

01:05:54.079 --> 01:05:58.079
That's the fresh art fair coming to Cheltenham Race Course in April.

01:05:58.159 --> 01:05:59.760
And there will be a link to get tickets.

01:06:00.320 --> 01:06:02.079
In the description below.

01:06:02.320 --> 01:06:08.719
Now, Cheltenham is set to welcome the tallest ever observation wheel this spring.

01:06:08.800 --> 01:06:15.519
Now it's arriving in the Imperial Gardens from the 26th of March through to the 12th of April.

01:06:15.760 --> 01:06:19.119
Standing at 36 metres high.

01:06:19.360 --> 01:06:20.639
This is huge.

01:06:21.199 --> 01:06:31.280
About the height of an 11-story building, the wheel will offer panoramic views across Cheltenham, the surrounding countryside, and even out towards the Cotswold and Mulvern Hills.

01:06:31.440 --> 01:06:34.800
Now I've gone on the wheel they've had before, but I'm afraid that one's too big.

01:06:34.880 --> 01:06:36.079
I'm not going on that one.

01:06:36.320 --> 01:06:47.119
The attraction features 24 enclosed capsules, including a wheelchair accessible option, making it suitable for all ages and accessibilities to as many people as possible.

01:06:47.280 --> 01:06:56.320
Now it's going to be open daily from 12 till 9 with tickets priced at£6 for adults,£5 for juniors, or£20 for a family ticket.

01:06:56.480 --> 01:07:04.159
Now, if you're looking for something a little different this spring, this could be a great way to see Cheltenham from a whole new perspective.

01:07:04.320 --> 01:07:06.559
And you definitely will be going up in the world.

01:07:06.719 --> 01:07:14.800
Now the body shop at the Regent Arcade is celebrating£50 on Friday, the 27th of March.

01:07:14.960 --> 01:07:22.400
Shoppers are invited to come along and join in the store celebrations with complimentary goodie bags for the first 50 customers.

01:07:22.480 --> 01:07:23.599
So get there early.

01:07:23.840 --> 01:07:28.559
Exclusive gifts with purchases and a spin the wheel prize is up for grabs.

01:07:28.639 --> 01:07:36.639
So if you're heading into town and fancy picking up a few treats while joining in the anniversary fun, it sounds like one checkout.

01:07:37.119 --> 01:07:42.239
Now um why have I got that there?

01:07:42.400 --> 01:07:43.840
I have no idea what that's saying.

01:07:44.239 --> 01:07:45.360
Anyway, I'll move on.

01:07:45.440 --> 01:07:48.639
I've got a line in the script here and I don't know what it's about.

01:07:48.960 --> 01:07:58.800
The Planet Caravan in Cheltenham is hosting its very first sour beer festival from the 1st to the 5th of April.

01:07:59.119 --> 01:08:08.400
Expect a huge selection of around 25 sour beers from some of the best breweries in the world, including rare imports and UK favourites.

01:08:08.559 --> 01:08:18.159
There'll be everything from thick dessert style sours to fruity and experimental flavours, plus frozen sour beers served from a slushy machine.

01:08:18.399 --> 01:08:24.960
Beers start pouring from 4 pm on the Wednesday and will be available throughout the bank holiday weekend until they sell out.

01:08:25.119 --> 01:08:35.039
So if you're if you're a fan of a sour beers or just fancy trying something with a bit different, this sounds like a really fun one to check out in Cheltenham.

01:08:35.279 --> 01:08:36.640
We have had a real mix.

01:08:36.720 --> 01:08:39.840
We've got the dark dark owls and now we've got sour beers.

01:08:39.920 --> 01:08:44.079
If you're if you enjoy your drinks, you've you've got a few things coming up.

01:08:44.239 --> 01:08:56.000
Now finally, there's a medical information lecture coming to Cheltenham this May, organized by the Bruno Bruno Giroin Circle of Friends.

01:08:56.159 --> 01:09:02.560
It's titled A Path to a Healthy Body and Soul, and will be presented by Dr.

01:09:02.800 --> 01:09:04.560
Cameron L Suzi.

01:09:05.279 --> 01:09:11.439
The session takes place at the Cheltenham Friends Meeting House on Thursday, the 7th of May, from 7 p.m.

01:09:11.680 --> 01:09:13.119
to around 8.30.

01:09:13.199 --> 01:09:23.680
And the admission is absolutely free, and it's aimed to anyone interested in learning more about the teachings of Bruno Grunin, G-R-O-E-N-I-N-G.

01:09:24.239 --> 01:09:27.840
And as I say, the link will be there in the description.

01:09:28.079 --> 01:09:29.039
So there we go.

01:09:29.119 --> 01:09:31.840
That's it for this week's episode.

01:09:32.079 --> 01:09:33.760
You probably noticed a few changes.

01:09:33.920 --> 01:09:34.560
I hope you don't.

01:09:34.720 --> 01:09:36.720
Hope you enjoy, hope you prefer them.

01:09:36.960 --> 01:09:42.239
And I will be back next week, same time, same channel, as they always say.

01:09:42.399 --> 01:09:57.600
If you do enjoy this, please do subscribe wherever you listen, and of course tell your friends and family because the more people that know about it, the more popular it becomes, and the more people I can let know what's going on here in Cheltenham.

01:09:57.840 --> 01:10:02.239
So until next week, have a wonderful week here in Cheltenham.