The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast

Shrewsbury Biscuit at Shrewsbury Comic Con 2024What better way to spend a day, than to be walking around Shrewsbury Comic Con with a mic in-hand? This is what I was born to do and on Saturday 6th April I spent a good 3 hours speaking to comic book legends, up and coming stars, vendors and even some Ghostbusters!Follow me and Mini-Biscuit as we take look in to the inaugural Shrewsbury Comic Con event, there are some great stories in here, some fantastic advice and even some exclusive content.The people featured in this episode are: East Midlands Garrison, Nathan Head, James Warman , Rich Watkin (Digital CBS), Stewart Bellis (Black Death Comics), Shane Chebsey (Hedrek), Luke Michael Copsey, Irina Richards (Manga), Mike Perkins, Mike from Preston City Ghostbusters, John Wagner, Leslie and Wesley (Black Ink Comix), Polly Harrison (lulu and the Beans), the guys from Hobby Time at Healys, organiser Nick and Charlie Adlard.Special thanks to organiser Nick, Tom Corbett and everyone who made this happen, I had a great time at this event.

Season Alpha: Ep.10 - Michaela Wylde & Simon BerryTo wrap up Season Alpha we bring you 2 phenomenal guests, Michaela Wylde & Simon Berry. You may know these 2 legends from BBC Shropshire's Music Introducing show where for years, local musicians had a platform to play their music. Now Michaela & Simon have moved onto The Salopian Mixtape which has the same magical formula but as their own independent podcast. Such an intriguing prospect deserves to be investigated properly. So armed with coffee, candles and microphones we really down to the bottom of how the transition has gone. This episode is so much fun!The Salopian Mixtape is my favourite place to find out about new local music. You should absolutely throw this show into your pod-rotation. The Spotify link is here but the show will be available on all good podcast platforms - https://open.spotify.com/show/1KOeZOHbithGvqoO8eclBi?si=c04f8a609b0a46cd ...Be back on the 6th of May guys with Season Bravo

Season Alpha, Ep. 9 - Steve The Hungry GuyThis episode has been some months in the making I tell you. Me and Steve have been trying to make this work since Shrewsbury Food Festival 2023. What I can confirm is that this episode was worth waiting for because not only is The Hungry Guy everywhere, not only is he a nationally recognised food educator but he is pretty awesome on the mic.We discuss Steve's career as a product development designer and how that job was the last straw when it comes to educating about not wasting food. Also the importance of making the most out of what ingredients we have around us to make healthy, tasty meals.Thank you Steve for coming on The Biscuit, I appreciate everything you are doing to try and raise awareness in your role as a food educator. If you would like to follow everything that Steve is up to you can check out his website here - https://www.thehungryguy.co.uk/ and you can give him a follow on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/_thehungryguy/

Season Alpha: Ep. 8 - 60 Years of Shrewsbury Samaritans.I was lucky enough to be invited to the 60th anniversary of the Samaritans in Shrewsbury by Claire Oulton. This was a fantastic opportunity to speak to so many people that had contributed to The Samaritans on many different levels, some for many years.The first half of this episode is a 30 min sit-down with Claire, Angie and director Lauren. The conversation was about what the Samaritans of Shrewsbury offer as a service, how these amazing people go about their jobs and conduct themselves in a safe and sustainable way.The second half was recorded as people were walking into the party. I spent a bit of time speaking to people with interesting stories. The goal was to understand if and how the landscape for what The Samaritans do to help and the reason why people needs help may have changed in the last 60 years. You may be surprised at the results.Disclaimer:This episode does come with a disclaimer. There are some triggering conversations for people that may be sensitive to conversations about suicide.If you need help from the Samaritans you can call them on 116123If you'd like to help Shrewsbury Samaritans and become a phone listener please get in touch by visiting their website - https://www.samaritans.org/branches/shrewsbury/

Season Alpha: Ep. 7 - Beth HeathWhen it comes to innovative business and throwing a good party, Beth Heath is a recognised world leader. The leader of the fantastic team at Shropshire Festivals has been running events for a very long time. The landscape for what Beth and her team do for a living is always changing. If you cast your minds back to the last 5 years it might just give you traumatic flashbacks of lifestyle changes brought on my pandemics, financial fluctuations and bloody train strikes! Well these are the scenarios that have been faced head-on by Beth and her team.But how has this changed things for Beth? How has this changed the way business is done? and how will things look this year? Whether you are a business enthusiast or just curious to know what goes on behind the curtain, this episode has it all.Make sure you follow Shropshire festivals, here is the insta link: https://www.instagram.com/shropshire_festivals/

Season Alpha: Ep. 6 - Sarah Wareing: Sox UKThe guest for this episode is one with a story of hard work, survival and determination. All of this led to the creation of one of the coolest brands, Sox UK. We are of course speaking to Sarah Wareing or Saz as she is know by her friends.Sox UK is a pandemic-born creative passion that snowballed into a business that was excelled by Sarah's fight to provide a life, wellbeing and even a home for Saz and her little girl. I won't spoil the interview by going too much into it, you will have to listen.Saz is vibrant, super creative, driven and very fun guest with lots of fantastic stories to tell. This is a real Biscuit classic episode and I would like to thank Saz for joining me, plus our mutual friend Jane Pickworth for helping to make this happen.Follow Sox UK here: https://www.instagram.com/sox_uk/

Season Alpha Ep. 5 - James MillichampJames Millichamp is the perfect guest to join me at the halfway point of Season Alpha. Featuring lots of free flowing chat about the arts, education, history and why for some reason Wolverhampton is the centre of the universe. We really do put the world to rights in this one.If you listen to this show regularly you know that I'm at my best when I'm speaking to an artistic mind. But what about an artist in his own right, who's also an art teacher that helps to mould young minds? We talk about what it is to inspire young minds, to go out there and be the best that they can be. How to inspire individuality while following a curriculum is one of the best parts of this episode.Make sure you give this award winning artist a follow because frankly, he's everywhere right now. Here's his insta - https://www.instagram.com/jamesmillichamp/

Season Alpha: Ep. 4 - Mark Fielden, AuthorBeing a huge fan of traditions, I love the fact that Mark Fielden is back on The Shrewsbury Biscuit, talking about another great Chords Crush Cancer event. This event just gets bigger and bigger every year. So much so, that this event in particular is titled "The Last Chapter"....the last of it's kind Mark says, tune in to find out more.Also discussed we talk about some of the most unique prizes Mark has cunningly acquired throughout the year. Lets see if any can top the record-breaking Wayne Rooney top from last year, which we talk about too. The date to save for this year's event is 3rd February 2024 and it is being held at the Inn on the Green in Radbrook.Mark has also written a book about his mum Margaret and the painful, memorable and wonderful journey they all went through during Margaret's battle with Cancer. Mark beautifully talks about some highlights from the book. Please support this effort by getting your own copy of the book here - https://amzn.eu/d/bcsoJyKGive Chords Crush Cancer a follow on Instagram too and stay up to date with what to look forward to. The link is here - https://www.instagram.com/chordscrushcancer/

Season Alpha: Ep, 3 - Dungarees & Squeegees.From an Instagram post years ago which grabbed my attention to now, so much has happened for today's guests Ash and Joey. As we record this episode, there is scaffolding up, lots of empty space ready for machinery and lots of colour on the walls. We are in the brand new studio for Dungarees and Squeegees in the English Bridge Workshop.Dungarees & Squeegees is a screen-printing studio with a lot of heart.Ash and Joey are here to tell their story. From their days in college to the expectations of opening their very own studio in Shrewsbury. Plus there is so much to understand about screen printing as it can be a complicated process.Back is the new popular segment "Random-innit?" with a brand new soundbite thanks to Derek Willis.There is a Kickstarter starting for Dungarees & Squeegees on Friday 26th January. Please take a look at this link and support this brilliant local artists - https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/shrewsburys-first-open-access-print-studioAlso, please give them a follow on Instagram, it really helps : https://www.instagram.com/dandsstudio/

Season Alpha: Ep. 1 - Anneka Reece.Recorded at The Restaurant at Theatre Severn, I speak to Anneka Reece, host of The Alcohol Free Vibes Podcast and life coach (see link below).I thought it would be a good idea to speak about alcohol-free living during January as I know that there are a lot of people that give up alcohol during January and also, it is a very positive life choice to discuss. Me and Anneka had planned release this before Christmas but I went and took my break so I am delighted to bring this episode you now, as destiny planned it.Here is the link to The Alcohol Free Vibes Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DFfljozvanddAOB96oAc3Here is the link to The Dry Dock in Weymouth (as mentioned on the show): https://www.drydock.org.uk/And here is the link to Anneka's Insta which has all the info you need if you want to follow her: https://www.instagram.com/coachingbyanneka?igsh=cXIxeW1lbmUzNDN4

Season Alpha: Ep. 1 - Rob GibsonI know it's weird right? why Season Alpha and why the change? Well you will just have to listen in to find out.Episode one, is a fantastic way to start this new phase. Executive chef, Rob Gibson joins me for a chat about his amazing career. From eager an 15 year old working in a bustling kitchen, to working with some of the most famous chefs on the planet, travelling all over the world to cook and becoming a household name amongst Shropshire's finest chefs.Rob has a fantastic story to tell, but don't take my word for it....

In this late, but great episode of The Biscuit you lucky ducks get to follow us backstage at the Shropshire Music Awards 2023, which was held at Oakengates Theatre. Joined by our good friend Liam Tinsley we offer a sweet selection of interviews from the evening featuring winners of awards, friends of The Biscuit, the compare Paul Shuttleworth and many more.Featured artists are:Coffee?Guns For GirlsMiss InkThe FoundersMacy OMichaela Wylde and Simon BerryJames 'Bassphaze' LockLoose LipsRecall the RemainsAnd a gentleman who should feel ashamed of himself, Mr Trademark Blud (listen to the episode for context)LISTEN TO THE END OF THIS EPISODE FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH THE BISCUIT :)

On The Biscuit today is a young actor who went from acting in the Wizard of Oz with the very popular drama school, Get Your Wigle On to appearing on the monolithic Broadway show, The Lion King as none other than Simba.From here, Amir has gone on to do so many brilliant things. From Broadway to TV, to the movies, Amir appeared in The Secret Garden alongside Colin Firth and of course in the smash hit HBO series His Dark Materials (available on BBC iPlayer).However glamorous this may sound though, these rewards are a result of and end up resulting in hard work. Amir's journey is incredible and it's here for your listening pleasure.Follow Amir on his journey, here is the link to his instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amirwilson_/

Join Alex and Mini-Biscuit as they attend Ludlow Food Festival 2023 armed with mics. This festival had the beautiful backdrop of Ludlow Castle and there is so much to look at and many great opportunities for conversation.Staring us off is Louise Welsby who has been working with the festival for sometime. Louise was so kind to us, taking us around the site and introducing us to so many cool people like the folks from Netherton Foundry, Wenlock Spring, Organiser Jess, Kevin from Caradoc Charcoal, Rupert Bennett from Bennet & Dunne, Gary from Ludlow Brewery and Katie Johnson from Wot's Cooking.There were a few opportunities to pinch interviews with Alex Risdon from the world famous Risdon and Risdon, Marcus Bean and cook book entrepreneur James Whetlor.This was an interesting, hot day and enjoyment was had, exploring the castle grounds and speaking to so many great people. Thank you to Louise, Jess, Jessica and everyone who took to the time to speak to Alex and Mini-Biscuit.

Alex is chatting to his good mate, local rapper Trademark Blud about one of the county's hottest events of the year, The Shropshire Music Awards 2023.So much goes into an event like this and there is a deep meaning behind it that gives artists something to strive towards. But while it really was great to talk about the logistics behind such an extraordinary event, Alex took some time out to talk about the career of Trademark Blud and geek out about music (it's becoming an issue lately!)To be naturally gifted at something means that muscle memory can drag you out of almost any situation. Trademark tells about a story where he somehow managed to pull off a flawless performance while so drunk, he barely remembers it!The Shropshire Music Awards 2023 is going to be out of this world and I encourage all of you, jump on the website right here: https://www.shropshiremusicawards.co.uk/ and book a ticket (before they all go!) I will see you there with my mystery guest co-host - AL

On World Suicide Prevention Day Alex set up a mobile studio outside Shrewsbury Abbey for a few hours to speak to some special guests about their suicide experiences . Whether they have lost a loved one, have thought about it themselves or even if they are an expert in the field of mental health.Featured on this show which comes to you in part of our ongoing work with Shropshire Mental Health Support are, Dave who has had help addressing his demons with Shrewsbury Town Foundation, Heidi Gomm who sadly lost her brother plus Simon, who lost his brother and has been working hard to promote suicide awareness with a series of what he calls silly walks.We also speak to representatives from Shrewsbury Abbey, including Padre Pat who talks about the community aspect of being a part of something positive where one can be taught the importance of being kind to ones self and others.Heidi has got a fantastic idea of building a safe place in the grounds of the Abbey, where people can sit if they are feeling down and be surrounded by positive messages from others. This is a new idea that needs to gain a bit of momentum, please use this link to support this idea on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suicide.awareness.memorial.shrewsbury.samsI f you have been effected by the topics raised in this podcast here are some useful links and numbers:Shropshire Mental Health Support: https://www.shropshiremhs.com/SAMARITANS116 123 (free) jo@samaritans.orgPAPYRUS HOPELINEUK0800 068 4141/ 07786 209 697 pat@papyrus-uk.orgSHROPSHIRE MHS INFOLINE01743 368647 86463Shrewsbury Town Foundation: https://www.foundationstfc.co.uk/health-wellbeing/

Today Alex is joined by Nick who is on the show to talk about Shrewsbury Comic-Con which is happening in April 2024.Featuring some very exciting V.I.Ps, great photo ops with brilliant movie props, exciting D&D sessions and lots of opportunities to enjoy a true Comic-Con experience right on our own doorstep.The event is happening on Saturday 6th April 2024 10am - 4pm at Shrewsbury Football ground and Nick talks about what is on offer. You can find out much more and order your tickets here: https://www.shrewsburycomiccon.com/This is a fun, relaxed podcast with a few Alex nerdgasms thrown in, because he will always geek out when given the opportunity. But there is an underlying point to it all. To share a tremendous amount of passion with others about pop culture in one place is a really special thing. This event is exciting and could offer a legacy that just grows and grows every year. Good luck Nick and the team!

One of Alex Whiteley's favourite things to do is to take a walk around inside the head of a creative. Today's episode is a real treat as Alex is speaking to author Hazel Meredith-Lloyd who has created the comedy novel 'Orange' and the children's version 'Natalie Hedgerow and the Orange Alien.'Alex and Hazel discuss the stunning and collaborative writers community in Shrewsbury. We have already featured some fine examples of these folks on this show before. A perfect example mentioned directly in this audio is Violet Fenn who currently has books hitting the heights of Amazon's bestsellers. It's amazing how much advice and appreciation writers offer each other in this town and it deserves it's mention here.How are characters, stories and content created? and more importantly curated in a short novel? Alex and Hazel talk about the difficulties of creating compact content. Of course Alex goes on a tangent about Rick and Morty...it's like he's obsessed with the show!I would urge you, the listeners to pick up a copy of Orange, help support local authors and pick up a great book in the process here is the link - https://amzn.eu/d/g7POKVlAlso here is the link to 'Natalie Hedgerow and the Orange Alien' to read to the kids - https://amzn.eu/d/cjDdjQ3Josie's petitionHere is the link for Josie's petition to combat the dog poop problem in Belle Vue and Coleham - https://chng.it/4p9g5wcjD8

For this episode Alex is talking to a good friend of the show Dave Corteen. The last time we spoke was to promote the W60 Tennis tournament in 2020, just before the world ended due to y'know the C word.Well today Dave is telling Alex about the Shrewsbury W100 Tennis tournament that is happening at The Shrewsbury Club between Sunday 15th - Sunday 22nd October 2023. Only this time there will be no cataclysm. Instead there will a tennis tournament of the highest order, bringing in players from all over the world.Dave says that this won't just be just a tournament, there are plans to have events running all throughout the week, creating more of a festival vibe.This is all well and good, sounds amazing, but what actually goes into creating an event like this and who is managing what? Of course Dave has all of the answers and this podcast has all of the information you may need leading up to the event.If we missed anything, please visit the event's website where you can buy tickets, learn about the events happening during the tournament and any announcements that are made. Here is that link: https://worldtennistourshrewsbury.com/

The guest for today's episode is artist, photographer and performer Vanessa Fairfax-Woods. Alex speaks to Vanessa about her beginnings as an artist and where her artistic drives come from.It is very rare to find an artist who can encapsulate an emotion or a situation so vividly because, well, that is what makes art so special right? Well Vanessa's website offered this podcast an arsenal of interesting topics, just based on Vanessa's work. Take a look for yourself right here: https://www.vanessafairfaxwoods.com/Mental health has been cropping up on this show an awful lot lately in many different forms of discussion. But it is rare when someone is prepared to show their ultimate vulnerable (yet strong) side to show what is means to be affected by mental health issues. This is where Vanessa comes in and it sets this episode up beautifully.I like to think that I am very good at finding very good guests for this show, but the truth is lately, the most amazing guests and opportunities are coming to me and today's guest is a real treat. Not only does Vanessa have a brilliant message to give, not only is she brilliantly eloquent on the mic, but her work is phenomenal too. This ticked all of the boxes for me before we even hit record. - AL

Recorded at Daily Brews in Shrewsbury Alex is talking to Business and Mindset Coach Alex McCarthy and Camilla Monk.Today's topic is about when a business woman has to change her script after finding out she is unexpectedly...expecting. What happens to the mindset of a real go-getter in business when all of a sudden things are changing, priorities are shifting and hardcore vulnerability sets in.Camilla Monk is one of Shropshire's leading business ladies and is a parent too so, proof in the pudding that it can work. This seems like such a casual topic to be discussing on the show, but not really, not when you think about it. Women in business have babies all of the time, but, where did they get their advice? Who did they talk to about their insecurities? Well we offer you the opportunity to eavesdrop in this discussion and hopefully there's a few nuggets of advice here in this podcast for you.Follow Alex McCarthy on Instagram and stay up to date with her journey: https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoachingAlso follow Camilla Monk, as there is always something exciting in her world https://www.instagram.com/architecture_ventures/

It's time to catch up with a good friend of The Biscuit's, Luke Allen.Since he was an enthusiastic film maker in his teens, Luke has been regularly guesting on The Biscuit and we always take a deep dive into great topics when he is on the show. Today's episode is of no exception.Luke talks to us about his decision to leave college and concentrate on his work on-set and in the writers rooms as the experience he has received there is ten to the dozen. We find out about Luke's new production company "Ask Seek Knock" The name of this paying homage to this Christian faith, it is derived from the passage Matthew 7:7 'Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and the door will be opened to you'Of course we started talking about religion and how it all plays into comedy writing. Luke has some goals that he has set himself that, if done correctly, could pay off really well for him. But there is one conundrum to solve first, how does one write GOOD Christian humour?Yes we go into conversations that may seem like troubled waters in this one, but Luke is my friend and I am comfortable having these conversations with him, it's healthy. Plus, it wouldn't be a Luke Allen guest appearance if it wasn't edgy!

We are back with a second edition of the Shropshire Mental Health Support Takeover just because the last episode really helped a lot of people. So we thought, why not make a bunch of these shows, covering all kinds of different aspects of mental health support.Toady Alex is joined by Ruth, Maree and Amanda. Maree talks about her new role as deputy manager and what the charity needs going forward. Amanda talks about her role with Shropshire Sanctuary plus her experience dealing with mental health. Ruth hits us with lots of facts and statistics which help keep the discussions flowing.There are many topics covered in this episode but the main vibe here is opening up to mental health, the triggers around us and how to access help with Shropshire MHS if you need to do so.To help though, here is a link to the Shropshire Mental Health Support website - https://www.shropshiremhs.com/ And the number to call to speak about therapy or find out information is 01743 368647

Join Alex as he attends the Shrewsbury Town Football Club Open day at the Croud Meadow Stadium. As an icebreaker, Alex speaks to various members of the Shrewsbury Town community, Starting with the dedicated football police officer for the club, a steward who has grown an affinity to the club, Director of Football Micky Moore and chief business development officer Jamie Edwards.We are going to be producing a range of content with long-time supporters, staff members and maybe even the odd classic player or two. If you would like to come on the show or know someone who you'd like to feature, please get in touch. Our email is shrewsburybiscuitpodcast@gmail.com

For today's episode Alex is sat with the new Madam Mayoress of Shrewsbury, Becky Wall.The nature of interviews such as these are designed to discover the person behind the appointment of Mayor. A conversation about where Mrs Wall started in life, what her aspirations are and also what is like for her to become the mayor of this great town.What are the things that one looks forward to the most, in becoming the Mayor? What are the challenges? In Mrs Wall's situation it was giving speeches, however there was a solution to this particular problem and we find out about that in this episode.Every Mayor has goals and achievements that they set. Mrs Wall's target is to improve the town's accessibility by highlighting some particularly difficult to reach places for access via wheelchair. We also discuss the charities that will be focused on during Mrs Wall's mayoral year, Diabetes UK and Guide Dogs UK. These charity choices stem from scenarios personal to Mrs Wall, as described in this episode too.It is always nice to sit down with the Mayor of Shrewsbury for a nice long chat. We all observe Mayors come and go, we may even see them at events throughout the year but what do we know about these people that represent our town. This is a nice way to break the ice and get to know the person behind that shiny chain. Thank you so much to Becky and her brilliant team for making this happen. I look forward to seeing our Mayor at events throughout the year - AL

Join Alex as he takes on Loopfest 2023. With his mic in-hand he is determined to cover as much of the festival as he can. But with over 120 artists performing at 25 different venues across Shrewsbury he far can he realistically get?Starting at Shrewsbury Castle, moving onto the Bulls Head and then finishing at The Anchor Inn, it seems not very far!Biting off more than he can chew, this task was a lot harder than he realised. That being said this podcast includes some really great interviews ft Ben from Manor Heights, David Gregg, (Albert's Shed) National Milk Bar, the landlady from The Anchor and Vincent Whyte. With smatterings of interviews gained on the way around town.The second half of this episode features post-event interviews with Jack Norcup from Chasing August and Loopfest creator Jamie Smith aka Jimmy Kebab.Special thanks go to Derek, Tracey and Caitlyn Willis plus Neville Street. These guys found me struggling with my gear and took me under their wing. We went on a journey across Loopfest together, sampling the atmosphere along the way. Their voices added something really special to this episode. A brilliant co-hostery team for a day of great local music.

Today this episode is brought to you via the River Severn. Alex and Verity are on the Sabrina Boat's picnic boat and for this episode they will be talking about river safety. Joining the show for this one are experts on river safety Andy Neal and David Brown for West Mercia Search and Rescue. Also joining the show is representative from 'Make Our River Safer' - Victoria Ireland.Where does 'Make Our River Safer' come from and what impact can a Facebook page (that has 7,000 followers) have on the community? Well Victoria is here to talk about the great work that they do, collaborating with so many in Shrewsbury.Andy and David talk about 'the job.' What kind of duties are there when it comes to being a member of Search and Rescue. What advice is there for a worried parent or friend that is passionately looking for a someone that may have fallen into the river? What advice is there for someone who might find a person struggling in the river? What advice is there for you, if you happen to fall in the river?There is so much information included in this episode that It really is just best to get stuck into it.Follow 'Make Our River Safer' on Facebook right here - https://www.facebook.com/makeourriversaferFind our everything you need to know about West Mercia Search and Rescue via their website right here - https://westmerciasar.org.uk/Thank you to everyone involved with this one. We appreciate that this is a difficult subject for many. We are just glad that we managed to put something together that can help people with some great advice. - AL

Today we are talking about the Shrewsbury International Comedy Festival 2023. We have idly watched by as this magnificent event rolls into town year after year. So we are very pleased to be in amongst it this year.Alex is joined my Canadian comedy superstar JJ Whitehead and festival organisers Beth McGowan and Neville Street.We spend the first half of the show talking to JJ about his career and how he crafts his material. JJ also talks about his work with Jim Jeffries as his warm-up act. Now living in L.A, but over here in the UK, JJ is currently working up and down Britain, touring. So we are very grateful to be talking to him today.The second half is spent talking about the Comedy Festival itself. JJ has fond memories of performing at Henry Tudor House to a packed out room in 2019. Beth and Neville discuss the acts that will be performing at the Festival from Thursday 13th July.JJ is performing again this year and he is NOT to be missed. His show this year is on Saturday 15th July at 5pm, he will be performing at Albert & Co Frankville. The tickets are a steal at £8, especially with the hilarious show you're going to get.The link for tickets to JJ's performance is right here, get those tickets in folks: https://www.theatresevern.co.uk/shows/comedy/jj-whitehead/

This is such a fantastic episode, whether you enjoy art or not. When we talk about passion, especially that which comes from hunger or desire, it is really hard to not find it infectious.Alex is at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery for a private exhibition for Shrewsbury Arts Trail 2023. We have all seen the pictures of the amazing sculptures throughout the town, this is the sculpture trail. Well now the full arts trails is open in its full capacity. There are hundreds of displays exhibited throughout Shrewsbury which include pieces by Salvador Dali, Jacob Chandler and from nearly 600 local artists too.Alex, mic in-hand is here to speak to some of those artists starting off with the gentleman who invited Alex along, friend of the show, John Wragg. Alex speaks to (takes a deep breath) Richard Royal who has just opened up Studio 67 in The Parade (make sure you check this out, it's brill), Deafblind artist John Fin, aided by Paul Siroky, the High Sheriff Many Thorn, Ellie Cliftlands, Maggie Love, Julia Goldmsith, organiser Phil Langstaff, the amazing Andrew Logan, Jane Beesley and Yulia Lavrenchuk.This is just too much talent! My mind had a bit of an overload processing some of the amazing conversation I had that evening. Good thing I had the trusty mic to remind me about what was said. This is an incredible episode and I'm proud to share it. Please visit the Shrewsbury Arts Trail website and go into town and check it all out. It's brilliant! Here's the link - https://www.shrewsburyartstrail.com/ - AL

It's the 10 year anniversary of Shrewsbury Food Festival, the sun is shining and The Quarry is absolutely buzzing with activity. Alex and Verity are on site for another spectacular event with mics in-hand, ready to document this fine occasion.To add a fun twist on interviews for this episode Alex and Verity are going head to head in a game called Word Up! A game where they take random words that were sent in by the public and they have to wedge them into interviews. First (or nearest) to 30 words used wins.This game takes nothing away from the great interviews that they had with Lingen Davies, Chef Rob Gibson, (https://www.instagram.com/rootsandwingschef/) Sandeep Kumar from The Manhattans, (https://www.instagram.com/theminhattans/) Chef Chris Burt, (https://www.instagram.com/chefchrisburt/) and what Food Festival would it be without a chat with TV chef Jean-Christophe Novelli. (https://www.instagram.com/jeanchristophe_novelli/) Alex and Verity finish off their day by speaking to a chef called David who was helping out at the Chefs Locker tent by cooking some tasty bites that were enjoyed on-mic. He has a fantastic Instagram with lots of sexy looking food right here (https://www.instagram.com/spice_punch/)This event is always such a perfect event for The Biscuit, with plenty of people to speak to and lots to look at. We got caught short this year with a force dip out of the Sunday coverage. Nonetheless this is a great episode and Word Up! Just made all the more fun to record.Congratulations to Beth Heath and the Shropshire Festivals team for 10 years of such a fantastic event. Shrewsbury Food Festival holds such a special place in our hearts here at the Biscuit, with so many fond memories.

In this bumper episode we bring you 2 great pieces of content, all squished into one.Part oneAlex enlisted the help of Tara Brindle from the Courtyard Collective to go into the rural village of Ryton where a meeting was taking place. This meeting was a gathering of locals who are planning on saving their local pub, The Fox Inn by turning it into a community Pub. Alex and Tara speak to Davide Thorpe who is a resident of Ryton and is on the steering committee. He talks about the importance of a rural village like Ryton having a community hub like The Fox Inn and what it would mean to save this local asset. There is a plan in place, a lot of research has gone into it, now all they need are pledges from potential future shareholders.This is an interesting story that we'd like to keep up to date with on The Biscuit and this was a short, subtle ice-breaker. To find out everything you need to know about these developments please visit the Facebook page dedicated to this cause. The link is right here - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090131627119Part TwoHaving not had the time to really catch up with Verity, Alex thought it was important to have an episode where they could spend a bit of time doing just that. In this hour(ish) sit-down Alex and Verity talk about what they have been up to, updates on some of the episodes that have been released recently. Verity is bringing her own monthly episode to The Biscuit where she call the shots, this is first discussed. Alex talks about Pod Aid 3 properly for the first time and the gauntlet is well and truly thrown down for the upcoming Shrewsbury Food Festival. These plucky podcast hosts will be going head to head in Word Up! A game where lots of random words are wedged into interviews that will be concluded throughout their day together at the festival...oh it's on!

We missed UK Proms in the Park last year, much to our disappointment. So we were delighted to be invited to come along to this year's event, set at the West Mids Showground.The UK Proms in the Park is an open-air classical concert featuring a wonderful orchestra lead by Alex Postlethwaite and conducted by Joe Davies. When is comes to culture, classical music is the engine that drives it. Whether it be operas, TV shows, cartoons or movies classical music is the perfect companion to all media in general.So, Alex was in his absolute element running around with a microphone speaking to musicians, organisers and sampling music too (including a beautiful solo by the one and only Katy Rink!). We tried to get a lengthy interview with organiser Peter Metcalf but he was here, there and everywhere doing his thing. We spoke to conductor Joe Davies, leader Alex Postlethwaite, the beautiful voice that is Samantha Oxborough and compare/singer Rodney Earl Clarke.WORD-UP! Ok, so we implemented a new game on the show (at probably the worst time) We asked for a list of random words that had to be wedged into conversations that took place on this podcast. We had 46 words, but how well do you think Alex did shoehorning them into his interviews?The UK Proms in the Park is a tour and there are 3 more shows to go in Warwick Castle, Bath and Windsor so if you would like tickets, we highly recommend taking a look at the website for more information and ticket sales - https://www.ukacgroup.com/ukpromsinthepark-1

For this episode Alex is joined by Kate Taylor, a very well established writer and editor who has embraced a new lease of life without the one thing that was causing her so much anguish, alcohol.After deciding to quit the booze Kate found an inspiring community online who offer warm, judgement free support for those wanting to make such a big change to their lives. Kate has an online following of thousands herself and is working hard to help others get sober with "Walking_the_straight_line" plus a podcast called The Sober Effect with her American co-host Steph.If you want it, the help is there in abundance, with the communities that Kate rocks with but if you're on the fence about kicking the booze, Kate is here to let you in on a few facts. This is free flowing discussion where Alex takes a bit of time getting to understand Kates story and today's guest is well...brilliant.If you'd like to follow Kate's Instagram (which we highly recommend that you do) the link is right here : https://www.instagram.com/walking_the_straight_line/Kate and Steph's Podcast The Sober Effect is also right here: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Zt6V6Vtewg67OB45U1UPf?si=91b0a1f5a0ae4d42If you know anyone that might benefit by listening to this podcast, please give it a share and also, don't forget to give Walking The Straight Line a follow and make sure you say hi to Kate from us too.

Well here we are again, The Belle Vue Arts Festival 2023. When Alex talks about The Shrewsbury Biscuit, he always talks about it being like viewing Shrewsbury on and iPad (other brands are available) and you zoom in closer and closer until you find an interesting story. We have never found it difficult to find extraordinary people to talk about.Events like the BVAF make it so easy to find interesting points of view, stories and inspiration all in one tiny little corner of the town. But this little event in this little area has hugely positive influence on so, so many.In this podcast we cover the open evening of the exhibition at Mrs Jones Gallery in Coleham and we subtly bleed into the opening day of this festival. Held on the side on the river at the end of the Greyfriars Bridge, there was sunshine, music, activities and pants. Pants designed by school children as inspired by their favourite heroes.'Heroes' was the theme here and we find heroes in many forms in this very podcast. From creative heroes like Christian Ward, Dan Berry, Mike Perkins and Louise Diggle, to community heroes of philanthropist kind, like Stuart & John from the Belle Vue community Action Group and the whole BVAF team. There are heroes to admire throughout this podcast.Please, please, please take a look at the website for Belle Vue Arts Festival and help support this great event by turning up to the many events laid on over the next coming days. Here is the link - https://www.bellevueartsfestival.co.uk/I'd love to give you guys a nudge toward the open gardens, the scarecrow trail and the lecture mentioned in this podcast by Mike Marriot about the artist, David Inshaw. This is on the 14th June. There is a booking link right here - https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/belle-vue-community-artsThis event means a great deal to me. I say it a lot in this episode. But I truly had just moved to Shrewsbury when I got invited on the Open Gardens Trail and I really did meet some wonderful people that just solidified my justifications in pushing The Biscuit like I do. In essence, these Salopians really are worth shouting about. - AL

This episode is almost an investigational piece. As Alex isn't from the rural or farming world and having never attended the County Show, (I know right!?) the mission today is to find out what this show is and what it means to people.So Alex starts off by speaking to the young farmers of Shropshire, speaking to Mollie from Shropshire Federation of Young Farmers, moving onto Edward from the NFU - National Farmers Union and also the the chief executive of Shropshire & West Midlands Agricultural Society. All in order to find out exactly what this show is all about. So you, the listeners get to find out with this show, everything you need to know about this event.Then Alex's attention is turned to prize animals, champion bulls and sheep, what's that all about? Well, with some help from some helpful farmers and Gareth (he knows who he is) I can tell you that we solve this mystery right here on the Biscuit and it all made sense in the end.With a smattering of great conversations with ROAR! MMA, Peter Metcalf (Shrewsbury Proms) and James Hitchin (not John) from Senor Tigre. This Podcast really does have an awful lot of great, informative content.Thanks so much to Rhea Alton for inviting me along to the show it was a real eye opener. I will absolutely be back for next year's offering, hopefully at a more Biscuity capacity. I loved this!

Alex and and Verity are coming to you from Albert & Co's Frankville in Frankwell. They are speaking to LOOPFEST organiser Jamie, who is on to talk about his journey with music in Shrewsbury/Shropshire and the conception of LOOPFEST.LOOPFEST is an event that takes place on Saturday 8th July across 25 different venues, offering entertainment from 125 different acts. All of this needs to be organised to run smoothly across one day and the logistics sound intense. However, Jamie has a plan and talks about how it is all going to work.When it some to grassroots music, listeners of this show will know that I am a firm supporter of the promotion and welcoming of the local stuff. An event like LOOPFEST offers local musicians a chance to shine. The local economy gets a boost, festival goers get the good vibes and culture blossoms. We will help LOOPFEST with whatever we can.If you'd like to find out more about LOOPFEST hit up their website at https://loopfest.co.uk/

As this episode was recorded, it was Mental Health Week so for this one we thought we'd let Shropshire Mental Health Support take over. So joining Alex and Verity, we have Maree and Ruth (from Shropshire Mental Health Support) who have brought along a guest to speak to.Our guest today is Helen Pritchard, who unfortunately lost her son Stephen to suicide in early January 2020, just one week after his 24th Birthday. To bear with the loss of a child is unthinkable and the grief attached to such a tragic event can be unbearable. Helen though, is sharing her journey with you today.Helen discusses how she battled with the many emotions attached to grief at first, but is managing to approach things at a different angle. Setting herself the challenge of scaling 24 Peaks in the Lake District over two days to raise money for this great charity and help raise as much awareness about mental health as she can. Thanks to her two friends Sarah and Lindsay too.In this episode you will hear about the importance of setting a challenge like this for Helen, how imperative it is to access the mental health services around you and how allowing yourself to grieve in the way that suits you best in the better way to deal with things.Helen's challenge takes place on the 23rd and 24th August and we, as a show, encourage you to please donate what you can to this immense challenge. Here is the link to the Just Giving page attached - https://www.justgiving.com/page/helen-pritchard-1680179430105?utm_source=copyLink&utm_medium=one_page&utm_content=page/helen-pritchard-1680179430105&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=db7c412048da43ffb79c225939bf6bc1If you are not feeling the best version of you and are worried about lengthy waiting times, are waiting to undergo therapy or would just like to talk about your mental health please contact Shropshire Mental Health Support on 01743 368647.Alternatively you can try:Samaritans: 116123Papyrus Suicide Prevention: 0800 0684141Access Team: 0808 1964501

This is episode 3/3.To wrap things up at DRAWN 2023 we thought it was a great idea to sit down with our good friend Charlie Adlard, co-creator of The Walking Dead, comic-book royalty and one of the most iconic UK artists, y'know that guy.With a little help from Leon, Cherie Jerrard and Pearl, Alex gets deep into conversation about, well, everything really. We wrote a list and yeah, they pretty much covered everything in the history of things, and a little bit of art talk at the end.However, the conversations about horror movies, wild festivals and whether pineapple belongs on pizza are all a lot of fun. Plus, what they discussed about art at the end, is advice that is so poignant Alex isolated it for a soundbite. It was that good.The point of this episode is, it doesn't matter how big an artist can get. It doesn't matter how many items Charlie has sold over time, he is just as down to earth as anybody and this conversation reflects that. It is the things that move around us that makes us tick the way we do. So it is important to explore what people see around them. This episode is that, in regards to Charlie Adlard.Thanks of course to Charlie for this, to my trusty co-hosts Leon, Pearl and Cherie Jerrard too! This year's DRAWN was fantastic, I loved our little corner of the warehouse, it was a fun place to be and we really enjoyed speaking to all of you. Thanks everyone! - AL

This is episode 2/3.Alex and Leon return for Day Two of DRAWN at the Flaxmill in Shrewsbury. They had a room full of Shropshire's finest artists and a PORTABLE MICROPHONE you know, so they could get about and speak to people! The task of the day was doing this all before the batteries ran out so the best way to do this was with a good ole Biscuit-run. Hit record, walk and talk and don't stop until you get great content. Alex and Leon spoke to some old friends like Gisela Robinson, Saffron Russell, the guys from Dungarees and Squeegees, Morgan Bird from MVK Paints and the Good Egg Bakery, we made some new friends too along the way. The themes of the day were a continuation of the Question relay and Leon has an IMPORTANT question for everybody - "Does pineapple belong on pizza?" This question got some really controversial answers!This was a great day, it was much better being able to move freely about the warehouse and speak to people at their stalls. The guerrilla style of the Biscuit-runs really added something nice to this one. Thanks to everyone that spoke to us, the organisers and Leon too, you did a great job buddy - AL

This is episode 1/3Alex and 'Bigger-Mini Biscuit' Leon are here to cover two days of DRAWN 2023. It has become a welcome tradition for The Biscuit to feature at this event and it was a huge privilege to speak to so many wonderful creatives.Starting off with DJ Raggs, what a guy he is. Started DJing in his 70's and is now absolutely smashing it. Gary Drew, of course we HAD to speak to him, he's one of our favourites. Mike Perkins came along to say howdy, that's always nice! Zoe of Zoenso fame came by to chat about her wonderful art. Luke Crump shared some brilliant wisdom and we spoke to the truly lovely Tat Effby the Caketoonist herself.This is just Day One after this is finished move on to Day Two.Thanks to everyone who spoke to us, to Leon for being an amazing co-host and of course Cherie, Paul, Pearl and Tat who were brilliant all weekend. This was great...truly! - AL

Alex Whiteley is ready, mic in-hand on the football fields at SCAT (Shrewsbury College of Arts and Technology) on London Road. This mission today is to speak to coaches, parents and players about the world of coaching, girls football and the positive impact it can have.Alex speaks to coaches Adam, Jess and Marv about the roles that they play at Shrewsbury Up and Comers u11 Girls. Women's football is on the rise and rise at the moment which is pretty awesome. But to solidify the fantastic work led by the iconic success of the Lionesses, it is important to build a solid foundation for the next generation of women footballers. That is what Marv, Adam and Jess are doing here (amongst many fantastic coaches across the country too).Alex speaks to some of the parents to find out the positive impact of their children being part of a team, as well as the encouragement of being coached regularly.Finally and most importantly, Alex spoke to some of the girls about their experiences at the team. Believe me when I say, these girls blew my mind. Some of the answers and comments that they gave had the maturity and wisdom that will take them far in life - ALIf you have a young one that you'd like to bring along to training or if you'd like to help out with a bit of coaching, please email Marv at girlsdevelopment.upandcomersfc@gmail.com

Imposter Syndrome...what is it? How do we face it and how do we stay motivated when there's a mind-goblin telling you you're not worthy? Well you mentally punch that goblin in the nose and prove it wrong.A life coach is a great person to have around when you need to make some positive changes. Today's guest Mandy Taylor is a life coach who is at the beginning of a career where she is determined to inspire her clients to being much more fulfilled in life.Mandy is holding a workshop about Imposter Syndrome to help give participants the tools they need to defeat their own mind-goblins. After speaking to Mandy, it is obvious that there is an awful lot to be learned. The event is taking place on May 11th at The Courtyard Collective which juts off Butcher Row in Shrewsbury. Here is a link for you all, take a look and book your ticket now - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/imposter-syndrome-workshop-tickets-604968937377?fbclid=IwAR1EvSeIsY17VMJKURFJ7Y_PP8vIa3ercLRHzMKEuYfdu_rGaP_cSuitmN4Thanks so much Mandy this was awesome, good luck with the workshop and going forward with a career where you help people change their lives. This was great!!

How do we talk about cancer? Do you, or have you struggled to have conversations with friends or family about their cancer? Is there a way we can approach the subject without being too intrusive?Well, today on the Biscuit Alex and verity are joined by Mary Perry, a survivor of breast cancer who is here to talk to us about her journey in a really relaxed, casual way. This episode felt so natural, that the guys forgot that they were recording a podcast!Talking to Mary and Verity, Alex discovers the do's and don'ts of talking to someone about their cancer and in all reality, the general consensus (in this room) was that we should just...talk about it. Verity says 'Ok, there's an elephant in the room, let's talk about it.'After facing cancer in her own journey, Mary turned her focus to helping charities that matter when it comes to cancer treatment. We are of course talking about Lingen Davies. Mary organised a 'Tractor Run' in Shropshire last year that went on to raise over £5,500!In this episode you will find out what has driven Mary, verity and actually a lot of cancer survivors to go out and give something back after treatment. Plus you will find out what a tractor run is!I cannot express how great this podcast is! This is by far the most natural interview (if you can call it one) that we have done for a very long time. So come, take a listen and I hope you enjoy the show, Mary is fantastic! - AL

Alex Whiteley is at the Shrewsbury Town FC Supporters Awards Night at Montgomery Waters Meadow. It was an intimate event with only around 200 supporters and the whole Shrewsbury Town present who were up for awards nominated by the supporter groups attached to the club.The goal today is to investigate the connection between the supporters and the club, especially as a huge effort has been made by Steve Cotterill's side to build a strong, symbiotic relationship between one another.Alex speaks to event organisers Roger and Mike, Shrewsbury Town manager Steve Cotterill and club captain Luke Leahy about their thoughts on the club/supporter connection.We also hear from a group of supporters about their love for the club over the last 50 years or more and Salop For All representative Helen Hall.What a magical evening, speaking to some pretty remarkable people. Thanks to everyone who spoke to me. Whether we had the mic with us or not it would have been a brilliant night. Getting to put this together was a huge bonus. Thanks Roger, Mike and the media team from Shrewsbury Town FC too. -AL

Today Alex is chatting about travel with Rhian. Who, after experiences her own travel adventures is going to be passing on her knowledge in a series of seminars at Highly Flammable Studios from 12th May.We start off by discussing Rhian's own adventures and the lessons she has learned along the way. Travelling is something that envelops us all in a mixture of emotions and may give us multiple reasons to have a contingency plan ready. But how do you know what to plan?How does one become sustainable while travelling, what skills would they have to acquire and what are some of the myths that exist?Well Rhian is here to answer your questions, but there is much more to learn. Whether you are about to embark on an adventure yourself or have a young person in your life that is about to go travelling on a gap year, Rhian's seminars have answers.Pop on over to the Solo Travel Seminars Facebook page to find out how to book on. Here is the link - https://www.facebook.com/solotravelseminarsEVENTS:29th - 30th April - Facebook page for details: https://www.facebook.com/DRAWNCollective12th May - An Evening with the Dirty Rockin Scoundrels ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1

Please read the bottom of this, we have a challenge for you.We have a very cool show for you today. Featuring guest co-host, all the way from Australia, Rich Carter. Rich has been a close friend of The Biscuit from the very beginning and AL was super pleased to have him by his side to speak to todays guest. Author Kate Mclanachan sits with Alex and Rich to discuss her book "The Workhouse Almanac: A Story of Shrewsbury." A story that mixes in all of the ingredients that makes a book brilliant, especially if you're from Shropshire and/or have an understanding of mental health treatment through the ages.We get to know Kate properly of course, hearing about her many years of working in the mental health field in Shelton Hospital (remember that place?) This was a discussion that did not feel like a podcast at all, so eavesdrop and tune in as we find out about this stunning author. The blurb at the back starts with: 'The Workhouse loomed impressively over the town, a majestic but formidable building that would become the prestigious Shrewsbury School.An institution and Asylum for destitute paupers, lunatics and vagrants, its past secrets and atrocities locked away behind closed doors' - This is a story that features locations in Shrewsbury, history, the horrors of old aged mental health treatment in a story that will grip and intrigue you.The ChallengeOk so we have a challenge for you. We want to see where in the world people may buy a copy of Kate's book. So here's what I want you to do. Buy a copy from Amazon and leave a review with the quote "by the power of the Biscuit" at the bottom. We will check with Kate in a few weeks to see where in the world her book has travelled to. Here's the link for the book: https://amzn.eu/d/eKRXaW4

The sun is starting to peek it's head out and we are about to embark on festival season. With Shropshire being such a cool festival county, it seems fitting that we sit and discuss one of the biggest festivals of the year, Camp Bestival.Alex and Verity are joined by Bestival founder and world famous DJ, Rob Da Bank. There is not much that isn't covered in this interview. Starting off with how does one become a world famous DJ? How was life at BBC Radio One and how far do those relationships go? What are some of Rob's most memorable performances (both good and bad).Of course it is important to talk about the conception of Bestival, how just the right ingredients are blended together to make a perfect festival and why Shropshire/Staffordshire is the perfect spot for such an event.The Shrewsbury Biscuit will be at Camp Bestival. Verity will be there with mics and cameras to document such a fun event. Alex and Rob set out a series of missions for Verity to complete while she is there.If you need to be hooked up with a link for tickets for Camp Bestival it is right here. From the briefing we have here from Rob Da Bank himself, it sounds like it's going to be an epic weekend. Check it out - https://shropshire.campbestival.net/tickets/buy-tickets

In this Episode TV chef and friend of the show Marcus Bean drops in to chat with Alex and Verity. First thing's first, apologies are in order for the technical difficulties that were had at Pod Aid back in September. But what can you do eh?We get a recap of Marcus' rise to fame, his story is astonishing, especially for a self-taught chef. How does someone without a fancy culinary education get on the Telly? The guys take a look at your comments from Facebook about those simple dishes that we believe we're the best at making. For example, Alex thinks he makes the best cheese on toast in the world and he may have challenged Marcus a cheese on toast-off!This episode takes a look into the life of a chef who's success stemmed from a place of survival. Now Marcus shares his knowledge via the Brompton Cookery School and also inspires with his fantastic Instagram videos.An Evening with The Dirty Rockin' ScoundrelsAs mentioned at the beginning of this episode here is the link to buy tickets to the Evening with the Dirty Rockin' Scoundrels charity event on the 13th May at Shrewsbury High School. Get a babysitter in, get a ticket and treat yourself to a good night out - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete&keep_tld=1

For this special episode Alex is joined by Katy Rink from My Shrewsbury Magazine at Shrewsbury Ark. The Ark is a hub for people that are homeless or are need of support for adverse reasons. The mission for today is to understand what Shrewsbury Ark offers in way of support and also to open up a channel to its users.Speaking to Chair of Trustees Emily Bell, we find out about the day to day running of The Ark and the challenges that met are too. Luckily there were representatives of the Hepatitis C Trust at the Ark too. Andy and Jamie were there testing, advising and offering treatment to those who needed it. Alex and Katie had a fascinating discussion about their work.We also had a chat with 2 of The Ark's users. In a bid to get an insight to their lives and truly understand their hardships. What has led them to be in the situation they find themselves in? How do they get by? What daily challenges are met on the streets? And how much of a lifeline are places like The Shrewsbury Ark?This is the start of an on-going project that we have planned to give Shrewsbury's homeless community a voice. This was an ice-breaker, there will be more to come.An Evening with The Dirty Rockin' ScoundrelsAs mentioned at the beginning of this episode here is the link to buy tickets to the Evening with the Dirty Rockin' Scoundrels charity event on the 13th May at Shrewsbury High School. Get a babysitter in, get a ticket and treat yourself to a good night out - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete&keep_tld=1

Join Alex and Verity as they sit down with good friend of the show Thomas Corbett, who is representing Shrewsbury Wargames Society.Alex is not at his er...best today so it's a good job he has a brilliant co-host and guest to prop him up. From the very beginning, blanking on the name of not just a guest, but a genuine friend that he's about to speak to. The needle definitely scratched the vinyl on that one.Nonetheless this episode is fantastic covering all things Shrewsbury Town FC, The Battle of Shrewsbury and the wonderful world of wargames. Since we last spoke to Tom, Shrewsbury Wargames Society have moved to a brand new location and they invite you all to come and give this fantastic hobby a go. The new place is at Pimley Manor Barn, just off Sundorne Rd. For all of the information you may need the website is right here - https://www.shrewsburywargamesociety.org.uk/If you're looking for something new, trying to make new friends, whether you have experience in Wargames/Tabletop RPGs or are a complete novice, Shrewsbury Wargames Society will welcome you in.Thanks for coming back on the show Tom you are always fantastic to chat to. See you on block 9! - AL

AL and Verity are talking to Kate Vuaghan on today's show. Kate is going to be doing the 2023 London Marathon in order to raise money for Whizz Kidz. A charity that raises money to get disabled children get access to the wheelchairs and apparatus that they need to get about.This is a great time to be discussing this, as Verity is getting ready to run the London Marathon too, raising money for Ovacome. A charity aimed at support those linked to treatment for ovarian cancer.So, as AL is not in the know-how of how these things are organised, it's the perfect time to discuss. How does one get into the London Marathon? How are the charitable thresholds met? and exactly how gruelling is a marathon?One way to create funding for a marathon runner's chosen charity is to create an event. Kate is going BIG with an Evening With The Dirty Rockin Scoundrels at Shrewsbury High School on the 13th May. Where there will be stunning music from one of the biggest band in the Midlands, a Q&A hosted by AL himself and as Kate say "a cheap bar"Tickets are only a tenner and it is a must see event, so here is the link. Treat yourselves to a great, cheap, evening of entertainment and raise money for a great charity. See you there!https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1