The John Bunyan Trail (15) Streatley & Sharpenhoe Clappers (For George)

After a bit of a break we are back on the Bunyan Trail. Starting point this time is the village of  Streatley', 5 miles from Luton Town Centre. The Icknield Way passes through the village as part of the 110 miles between Ivinghoe Beacon and Knettishall Heath in Suffolk. The lack of walking has been largely due to the knee injury of course.I shall be carrying something of a First Aid kit today hopefully covering all eventualities. There are various bandages and supports, painkillers and muscular gels. After a steady start we will encounter some steep elevation with the Sharpenoe Clappers. We immediately pick up the Chiltern Way, passing the Swedish Cottages on our right hand side. We aren't on it for very long as we turn left towards Barton Hill. The weather is good n the early cold and rain has given way to intermittent sunshine. It is lovely open countryside too.The next landmark on the map is showing as 'Jeremiah's Tree'. 

Sadly, try as we might, there isn't a sighting of the tree though. A Jeremiah Tree is a biblical metaphor from Jeremiah 17:7-8, describing a person who trusts in the Lord as a tree planted by water. Thriving green and fruitful even in a drought. Legend has it that this is an old hanging tree site. Next to the stump a small Oak tree has been planted as a replacement for the original Jeremiah’s Tree. This was planted in March 1998 by the Barton Conservation Group.Hope you have better luck than we did in finding it. Beware though, an evil atmosphere is said to lurk around it....

Sharpenhoe Clappers

We make our way through Barton Le Clay passing the football ground.Lots of Red Ribbons adorn the village in tribute to local boy 'Gorgeous George'. Sadly George died of a Brain Tumour in April 2022. By all accounts he was a real fun loving thirteen year old with a real zest for life. My thoughts go out to him and his family and what they have been through. This walk is now dedicated to George.

We continue on the footpath past Brook End Green Farm towards Sharpenhoe. There is a sense of trepidation as the 'Clappers' come into view. Will my knee stand up to the vigorous sharp climb? We are about to find out. The classic chalk escarpment is part of the Chilterns area of outstanding natural beauty. There are traces of an Iron Age Hill Fort and a Beech Woodland. Oh, it is also said to be haunted too. The 'Clappers' part is said to come from from medieval Latin 'claperius' or the French 'clapier' meaning a heap of stones or rabbit hole. It is now owned and managed by the National Trust. There are numerous steps (250 I think) marked out that help to get some sort of purchase on the climb. My lack of walking this year is very evident as I huff and puff my way to the top. Thankfully someone has hung a swing device from the branches of a tree. It might not look it but it was actually quite comfortable. 

From the top the views are great , looking over open countryside towards Bedfordshire  (North) and Hertfordshire (East). In total the hill rises 90 metres above the plain. 

These hills may well have been the inspiration for Bunyan's 'Delectable Mountains' in a 'Pilgrims Progress'. There are some great names too; 'Smithcombe Hill', 'Watergutter Hole' and 'Cow Hole'. We make our way back towards Streatley on the Icknield Way'. 

We walk through the Churchyard of St Margaret's back towards our starting point. The village pond is known to have existed for at least 150 years. Possibly even several hundred years. It was largely used by Horsemen and Farmers to water their animals. Following years of leakage and low water levels the pond was restored in 2005. It has an important role in the local landscape and essential for the local wildlife. It is also a breeding area for Frogs and Toads and shelter for other pond invertebrates. 

It has been a smashing walk and very pleasing to be back out again. In total a fraction under 8 miles covered. 

Dom Martin & Seafoam Green - Temperance Leamington Spa

 

We are back in Leamington Spa at the wonderful Temperance. A Cafe by day and a thriving live music venue. The cellar is fully set up for events such as Blues Rock to comedy nights. Looking through the schedule there are gigs several nights each week right up to the end of the year. It really is the most intimate of venues. One thing that has changed since our last visit is the seating. The 'cinema pews' have now been removed, replaced with individual seats. I have to say that unfortunately they are a lot less comfortable. As you might expect we are fairly crammed in. Many of the seats have been reserved with coats or bags.There was an option to have a pre-show meal , something we decided against. It didn't feel very 'Rock and Roll' to this particular Rebel. Those attending are definitely of a certain age, one might say. 

Temperance Cellar Stage

we get seated about 3 rows back from the stage. Leg room is at a premium and we are sardined in. I'm grateful I haven't had a skinful of beer, getting in and out would be a bit embarrassing.We are here for the extremely talented Dom Martin once again. We saw him here a couple of years ago, and also at The Stables Milton Keynes. A good night is always guaranteed from the multi award winning guitar genius from Belfast. As you might expect, the night is completely sold out. Actually this is the second night in Leamington at the venue. I had forgotten that there was also a support band beforehand. 'Seafoam Green' are tasked with the opening slot. Described as a 'Rock and Roots' band from Ireland they consist of Muireann Mcdermott Long and David O'grady. There is also more than a hint of an Americana influence. The harmonies are beautiful, for a while I even forget that we are here for Dom Martin. They play a perfect 45 minute set, appreciating the opportunity afforded them by Dom. They are impressive though, they even had the great 'Ronnie Wood' requesting to play guitar whilst in the Recording Studio.It doesn't get much better than that bow does it! It was great to meet David and Muireann (Muz) during the interval. A small purchase of the EP was made, which both parties were happy to sign. Keep your eyes open for future dates. 'Seafoam Green' are well worth catching up with, on and off stage.

It is a slightly different looking Dom Martin that we see before us. The hair is bigger, and I suspect there may have been an encounter with the henna hair dye?  The appearance may have changed but the same mischievous storytelling is still there. He takes to the stage and introduces himself as 'I'm Dom and I'm a Guitaraholic'. Which is something of an understatement maybe? The guitar is almost an extension of his body. He can't leave it alone, tuning and fine tuning constantly between songs.At the same time regaling the audience with tales that are extreme, but at the same time totally believable. The performance kicks off with 'The Fall' and 'Belfast Blues'.The audience is quiet, but appreciative. One man and his guitar in perfect unison.It is sometimes hard to tell when he is being serious and joking. Belfast being a good example , you should go there , no you really shouldn't unless it's to see me at the Ulster Hall in November for the Rory Gallagher legacy 72 show.   

There are several covers in the set-list from his Blues heroes. The Folk, Rock , Jazz and Blues legend John Martyn being one of them. (Discover the Lover). He tells us of another song that he spent years trying to trace it. He heard it as a young teenager and only rediscovered it when supporting 'Robin Trower. (Alethea). The iconic 'Born under a Bad Sign' was a great highlight from the performance. For the last four songs Dom is joined by Bass Player 'Ben Graham'. At least I think that is his surname? I didn't manage to get a set list unfortunately, apologies for the lack of detail and running order. Also the lack of photographs. I tend to take my lead from what  others are doing. As nobody else was taking photos it did seem very appropriate. It has though been a great night as always with Dom. I particular like the way he waited for one gentleman in particular, who made a trip to the toilet.An opportunity for an impromptu Q&A session. In which we found out that Dom does use hairspray, he hasn't washed it for months and he is probably banned from returning to Moscow. As always these must been taken with a pinch of salt along with the awe and wonder.   

 

 

 

Northampton Town v Peterborough United - EFL League 1

 

Continuing the football theme, following the night with Peter Schmeichel. I'm back at Sixfields Stadium , home of Northampton Town FC, 'The Cobblers'. It's an early one too , with a 12:30 kick off. One of the biggest games of the season as 'we' entertain local rivals Peterborough United in the 'Nene Derby'. The Cobblers form of late has been dismal to put it plainly. The last two games have been at home against teams below them, both ending in losses. This has seen them drop to second bottom in the table, and facing a relegation battle. Up until Christmas things were looking good, not far off the play off places. However various factors since Christmas have contrived to see a massive slump in fortunes. Three points today would be very welcome indeed! To say the least.

Sixfields Stadium has been home to the club since 1994, following the move from the old County Ground. Since 1897, Northampton Town had played their home games there, sharing it with the Cricket Club. The new stadium has a capacity of  8,203  all seated fans. From the hill behind the North stand it is possible to see part of the ground. The same applies in the gap between the North stand and the West stand pictured above.   

Given the nature of the fixture there is a large Police presence. Emotions run high between the fans of both teams. All seems peaceful and calm outside the ground pre- kick off though at least. We are in the West stand as usual, this time right at the end , the last seat before the North Stand. It's not the best , unless the action is down this end of course.Some of the other seats I've had have been more central. The ticket I have for the Burton game later in the month is right behind the dug-outs, that should be interesting. safely seated we don't have long to wait before the teams will take to the pitch.

Mr Cobbler & Clarence the Dragon

The seat is a bit cosy to say the least. Pretty much wedged in by the person next to me. The well attired 'Mr Cobbler (Thats what I call him anyway) he is also know as Andy Faulkner, along with 'Clarence the Dragon' are geeing up the crowd. The two teams begin to take to the field  accompanied by flag waving children. The Peterborough fans or 'The Posh' as they are nicknamed have taken up their full allocation of tickets as you would expect.They are mostly in the South stand but also take a chunk of the East stand too. 

The game kicks off and the Cobblers are very quick out of the blocks. Playing with a fast tempo that has been missing the past few weeks.  Northampton dominated the early exchanges and Jake Evans was twice denied by Posh goalkeeper Alex Bass, while Lee Burge was alert to keep out James Dornelly at the other end.Burge also produced a sharp stop from Kyrell Lisbie, but Northampton were the better team in the first half and a towering Tom Eaves header from Tyrese Fornah's cross on the stroke of half-time gave them a deserved lead at the break. The first half has flown by , always a good sign.

We are hoping all the action in the second half will be in the bottom corner where we are. The end the Cobblers are attacking .Sadly it's not to be as Peterborough no doubt fired by the half time team talk come out fighting. back on level terms within seven minutes of the restart when Lisbie tore away down the left and squared for Morgan to finish in the middle.Lisbie had looked quite dangerous in the first half in fairness. One or two more chances for the Cobblers went begging in a much improved display.  

MOM Jake Evans

Despite pushing, Northampton could not find a winner and remain in the relegation zone.A very precarious position to be with 9 games of the season to go.....

An Evening with Peter Schmeichel - Northampton

It has been a long time coming, an evening I have had very mixed feelings about. I should explain further, something of an unwanted Christmas present. An expensive one at that too. Not being a fan of Manchester United it was quite a strange present to receive. I did try to offload the ticket at a much reduced price, to little avail. I then decided I wasn't going to bother even turning up. As time has got nearer to the event I felt duty bound to make an appearance. It is an early start too, a 6pm registration is required. A good thing I left early as car parking spaces were thin on the ground. Once inside the Mercure Hotel (formerly known as the Moat House) who should I bump into but Mr Schmeichel himself. Hurrying along with his travel case en route to his room. I showed remarkable restraint and let him go on his way. 

Assorted shirt memorabilia

There are plenty of opportunities to spend your money that is for sure. I am offered raffle tickets for just £10 , or the bargain of 7 strips for £40 . I politely decline, explaining that I'm not that keen on Man Utd in all truth. I purchase a small Diet Coke and take my seat in the auditorium. I am in Row I, not to bad, on the end by the aisle. The signed , framed shirts are being auctioned off to the highest bidder. The cheapest seemed to be somebody called 'Amad'  a current player I believe. There was a mere £200 reserve on that one. Perhaps a good investment if the player goes on to be a superstar. The compere is doing a lot of shouting trying to drum up support . Telling those interested that last time all the auction items are bound to be snapped up , based on previous experience. His advice was to go in high to avid disappointment. But then he would , wouldn't he. 

The 'Chirpy Chappie' Compere introduced himself as 'Pete Graves' of Sky Sports fame , as well as ITV Darts. He seems to think that Thursday is the start of the weekend? Back to the signed shirts and it seems that the 'Cristiano Ronaldo is the one everybody wants. Coming in with a reserve bid of £750 it will cost someone deep in the purse for sure. Not something I will be involving myself in though. Those of us who have the photograph with Peter (Schmeichel, not me) included are invited to start queuing up. I notice that a few people already had some mounts, in which to place the photo. I made some discreet enquiries and found out that these could be purchased for an additional £10. 

The queue moves fairly quickly thankfully. I would estimate that there are in excess of 500 people in attendance. Although not all will be having photos. When it gets to my turn there isn't much time for chatting. I do get to mention that I am a Leicester City supporter. Also that his son 'Kasper' was brilliant in his time with the club. As well as mentioning what a strong handshake he possessed  as we parted. The photo was printed out immediately, and it was pretty decent if I do say so myself. So much so that I decided to invest in one of the £10 mounts. Just need a frame now!

Sir Alex Ferguson

After a big build up 'The Great Dane' takes to the stage. Quite possibly the greatest goalkeeper of all time. In his 8 seasons at Man Utd he won 15 trophies, including 5 Premier League titles. There were also 3 FA Cups , and he was Captain when the club won the 1999 UEFA Champions League Trophy. He also played for Denmark when they won the 1992 UEFA European Championship. As well as a multitude of individual awards. In 2001 he received the MBE. Amazingly he has also scored 11 goals as well. The first half is very much about his early life in Denmark, how he always had a love for Man Utd and felt his destiny was to play for them. Lots of praise for his Manager Sir Alex Ferguson, and what a huge impact he had on his life. There are also a few stories about some of the big characters he played alongside such as; Roy Keane, Eric Cantona and Bryan Robson. Surprisingly not really an mentions of David Beckham. 

He talks a little about his son 'Kasper', saying that he has met a Leicester supporter earlier! I resist the urge to stand up an take a bow. After a short interview we 'kick off' again for the second half with a Question and session. I did submit a question but sadly it wasn't used. Our friend Mr Graves invited everyone to stand up if they wanted a signed Goalkeeper shirt. That seemed simple enough, at least until he then said sit down if you are not prepared to pay £200 for one. Strangely nobody seemed to be moving towards a siting position. Then he said ' sit down if you are not prepared to pay £250.. thankfully a few people around me sat down, I promptly followed suit. Once it had got to the £300 mark it turned out that there were in fact another 20 shirts available. They did seem to all go though. 

 

Can you see me?

 It has been a much better night  than I anticipated though. I felt that the speaker was quite reserved and played it fairly safe. There were some interesting thoughts for sure, but no revelations that I can't wait to share sadly.