Podcasts about Fort William

The West Highland Line is the kind of train journey you plan a whole trip around. Tracy and Doug take you from Glasgow Queen Street into the Scottish Highlands and explain how the route works in real life: where it splits at Crianlarich, whether to choose Oban, Fort William or the full run to Mallaig, which side of the train to sit on, and how the Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail services and the Jacobite steam train fit into a plan.Where the West Highland Line starts and ends, and why it has two very different endsHow the train divides at Crianlarich, and why you will not end up in the wrong portionGlasgow to Loch Lomond: when the commuter belt gives way to the HighlandsCrianlarich to Fort William highlights: Rannoch Moor, Corrour and the approach to Ben NevisFort William to Mallaig: the Glenfinnan Viaduct, lochs, white beaches and island viewsMallaig or Oban: overnight stay, quick turnaround, or gateway to Skye, Mull and IonaWhich side of the train to sit on, and why it is not worth stressing overCaledonian Sleeper Highlander: sleeper up, daytime backJacobite steam train versus the regular ScotRail service on the same routeTickets, Railcards and the BritRail Pass, and why a return is good valueSeat reservations, Wi-Fi, catering and luggage: what to expect on boardDoing the full route in a day, and why daylight hours matterAccessibility: step-free stations and Passenger AssistIf you have a question about train travel in the UK, leave us a message via SpeakPipe or drop us an email. Doug runs train travel Q&A sessions and can also help you plan your rail itinerary. If this episode helps you plan your own West Highland Line adventure, share it with anyone planning a trip to Scotland and leave us a review. Show notes - Episode 218Planning your UK or Ireland trip?Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.Support the show

Last time we spoke about the battle of Hong Kong. On the night of December 18th, six Japanese battalions crossed Hong Kong harbour under cover of darkness and burning oil tanks. The Rajputs fought stubbornly but were overwhelmed by sheer numbers. Maltby fatally underestimated the assault, holding reserves against a frontal attack that never came. The breakthrough sparked a cascade of disasters. Elderly British businessmen and World War I veterans—the Hughsiliers—heroically held the North Point power station for 18 hours, delaying the entire Japanese advance. Private Geoghan, wounded but undeterred, charged a Japanese officer and killed him, incredibly surviving. The battle's focal point became Wongneichong Gap, where Brigadier Lawson died defending his headquarters. Desperate, piecemeal counter-attacks by Canadians and Scots failed amid chaos and poor coordination. Finally, a single Canadian company under Lieutenant Blackwood held the position for four days against overwhelming odds, killing over 200 enemy soldiers before surrendering. The Japanese suffered 800 casualties but seized the island's strategic heart.   #218 The Battle of Hong Kong Part 3: Black Christmas Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. By dawn on December 20, the Japanese Army had consolidated its position across Hong Kong Island. The 1/229th and 2/228th prepared to sweep southeastward from Taitam and Saiwan toward Stanley. The 2/229th and 3/229th, positioned near Stanley Gap, readied themselves to advance toward Repulse Bay. East of Wongneichong Gap, the 1/228th poised for the push toward Deep Water Bay, while the 3/228th, one of the original reserve battalions, had just arrived on the northern shore. On Jardine's Lookout, two fresh battalions—the 1/230th and 2/230th—prepared to advance westward across the gap. The West Brigade, meanwhile, held a fragile, ill-defined line: Z Company of the 1st Middlesex and Rajput survivors at Leighton Hill in the north, the 2 Royal Scots on the northern slopes of Mount Nicholson, and the Winnipeg Grenadiers, minus D Company, still clinging to pillboxes at Wongneichong Gap. The 228th Regiment moved first, tasked with clearing Postbridge House of its remaining defenders. Simultaneously, the 229th dispatched reconnaissance teams past Violet Hill toward the cliffs overlooking Repulse Bay Hotel—that opulent five-star resort now transformed into an impromptu fortress sheltering evacuees, soldiers, and sailors. What awaited was an epic three-day siege. Despite their gains, the Japanese later confessed that British resistance proved far stiffer than anticipated. They spent much of the 20th consolidating positions and bringing up supplies rather than pressing forward. Maltby, determined not to cede the initiative, dispatched a Royal Rifles company and two HKVDC platoons to the hotel with orders to attack the Gap from the south via Violet Hill. They recaptured the garages and outhouses but lacked the artillery support necessary to advance further. Growing anxious, Maltby sent a desperately weak platoon of the 2/14 Punjab—only 25 men—to reinforce them and push along the southern coast. Colonel Kidd, commanding the Punjab regiment, personally led an assault on Shouson Hill to link up with besieged sailors. He was killed in the attempt, and the mixed force of sailors and Punjabis fell back with severe losses. By the 22nd, after pressing forward from Shouson Hill, the Japanese seized Brick Hill and systematically beheaded all survivors. Yet the Japanese conquest contained stubborn pockets that refused to crumble. The HKSRA gunners held one end of Brick Hill. A ragtag force of HKVDC, naval personnel, Canadians, and Middlesex under Major Dewar maintained Little Hong Kong's ammunition store. HMS Cicala, providing artillery support from Deep Water Bay, was struck from the air and scuttled, eventually sinking in the Lamma Channel. Colonel H. B. Rose, the HKVDC commander, assumed control of the West Brigade following Brigadier Lawson's death. He spent much of the 20th preparing an ambitious counter-attack: the 2 Royal Scots and Winnipeg Grenadiers would drive toward the Gap from the west, supported by B Company of the Grenadiers, brought up from Pokfulam on the island's western coast. The operation commenced poorly. B Company arrived late to find that the Royal Scots had already departed Mount Nicholson's eastern slopes for reasons no one could later explain. The Grenadiers attacked alone through pitch darkness and torrential rain, splitting into two groups that circled Mount Nicholson from opposite directions, meeting above the Gap at dawn. Colonel Doi's tactical instinct struck again. Observing the undefended summit of Mount Nicholson—lost through British inattention—he seized the moment. That afternoon, under cover of heavy rain, he ordered the 1/228th in a three-company formation to take the position without opposition. When B Company blundered into the Japanese, a savage close-quarters battle erupted that cost the Grenadiers all their officers, seven NCOs, and 29 men. Overwhelmed, B Company retreated to Mount Nicholson's western slope as Doi prepared to exploit his success and assault Mount Cameron. At dawn on the 21st, Wallis proposed a new coordinated attack on the Gap. Major T. G. MacAuley of the Royal Rifles led a combined force of Canadian and HKVDC troops from Stanley Mount at 0915 hours. Accurate mortar fire from Red Hill met them immediately. Hand-to-hand combat erupted at Bridge Hill and Notting Hill before the force could push toward the Gap via Violet Hill. By 1700 hours, MacAuley and all HKVDC officers were wounded. Wallis ordered withdrawal. That same morning at 1030 hours, the Japanese launched a second amphibious assault, driving toward Victoria City itself and reaching the east side of what is now Victoria Park. The anti-aircraft gun at Watson's factory in Causeway Bay was silenced. The naval yard suffered devastating mortar bombardment; all its guns fell silent. Major C. R. Templer, assigned to command at Repulse Bay, had successfully repulsed numerous probing attacks. When ordered to assault the Gap with two platoons of Canadian infantry and two HKVDC machine-gun sections, he encountered such overwhelming Japanese force that he abandoned the operation and withdrew beyond Middle Ridge. By dawn on the 22nd, the Japanese finally established heavy artillery on Hong Kong Island. Two battalions of the 229th concentrated on Repulse Bay Hotel. The divisional reserves—1/229th and 1/230th—deployed against the East Brigade as it fell back to its last bastion: Stanley Peninsula. Stanley's defenses were organized in three concentric zones. The forward area, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Home, comprised elements of the 1st Middlesex, Royal Rifles companies, and HKVDC troops, supported by a single 2-pounder gun. Stanley village, under Lieutenant Colonel Wilcox, held the second line with artillery pieces and mixed infantry. A final reserve at Stanley Hill and Fort, under Lieutenant Colonel Shaw, contained the last of the artillery and the 1st and 2nd HKVDC batteries. To the west, British forces barely held their positions. The 2/14 Punjab, 1st Middlesex, 4/7 Rajputs, Royal Scots, and Winnipeg Grenadiers stretched along Mount Cameron and the northern heights—a thin, exhausted line facing Japanese battalions concentrated along a kilometer-long front. At noon on the 22nd, Japanese forces attacked Stanley Mound and Sugarloaf, held by B Company of the Royal Rifles augmented with platoons from HQ and D Companies. Despite multiple repulses, ammunition shortages forced the Canadians to retire to the southern slopes. The situation at Repulse Bay Hotel deteriorated daily, yet Major Templer continued to hold against repeated assaults. As Christmas Eve dawned, all defenders faced grim circumstances. The Royal Rifles of Canada, shattered from bearing the brunt of Japanese attacks, withdrew into Stanley Fort—but not before a heated confrontation between Lieutenant Colonel Home and Brigadier Wallis in which the Canadians bitterly accused their comrades of not "pulling their weight." In the evening of december 21st, Lt Colonel Home, now the senior surviving Canadian officer, spoke to Lt Colonel Sutcliffe, learning about the plight of the Winnipeg grenadiers trying to hold the crest of Mount Cameron. Sutcliffe reported that "his battalion was decimated and yet the high command was ordering his men to make counter attacks. So he asked Home if he could not do something to stop what he considered a useless waste of lives." Home took this to heart and began to inform Brigadier Wallis that he wanted to see the Governor. He said to Wallis "his battalion was exhausted; further resistance would only result in the waste of valuable Canadian lives; as senior Canadian officer he felt a grave responsibility" Wallis persuaded Home to wait until morning. Home the next morning was more than ever convinced of the futility of resistance. Its important to note the relationship between senior Canadians and British officers were all but poisoned in Hong Kong, let alone imagine how the Indian or Chinese volunteer forces felt. The Canadians distrusted the British commanders who for the most part got everything wrong in the whole damn operation. Home was threatening a separate Canadian surrender as they had lost confidence in Brigadier Wallis of the east brigade, Maltby and other British staff officers. It seemed to the Canadians they were being sacrificed to ensure the honor of the garrison. As Royal Rifles Major John H price put it  " There were plenty of Canadian officers who had battle experience in the first war who were competent to judge as to the possibility of a successful outcome of the defence of the island. Consider the facts - The Island had been split in two by vastly superior Japanese forces. On the eastern brigade front, which included the Stanley Peninsula, the Royal Rifles and one company of the Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Force were the only troops who had fought continuously day and night, without rest, since the landing on the 17th and were still carrying all the fighting. By the 21st they had been greatly reduced in fighting strength and by the 23rd to a strength of around 500 all ranks. (It might be interesting to note that when troops in this sector were marched out of Stanley fort as Prisoners of War, they numbered over 2000). It required no great military genius to predict the outcome of the battle once the Japanese had landed on the island with their control of sea and air and great superiority in weapons and men. He felt, I think rightly, that he would be derelict in his duty to his men and to the Canadian Government if he did not communicate his conclusions to the highest authority. Also neither Home nor his officers had any faith in Brig. Wallis' judgement or in his conduct of operations. And who had better right than he had? He and his men were bearing the brunt of the fighting and knew from first hand knowledge the strength and armament of the forces against them. The Higher Command had consistently shown an inability to grasp realities of the situation and to pursue tactics which might have prolonged the struggle but could not have altered the final result."  Stanley's defenses were reorganized into multiple lines. HKVDC companies held scattered positions at Chung Honkok, near the police station, and throughout the village. The 1st Middlesex manned pillboxes with medium machine guns. The second defensive line crossed Stanley Peninsula near St Stephen's College, defended by British, Chinese, and Indian policemen alongside HKVDC troops under Corporal E. C. Drown—all senior officers and NCOs having fallen. The final reserve stretched across St Stephen's Prep School north of the prison, held by Sergeant Murphy's HKVDC section and Captain F. G. Rees's 1st Battery HKVDC. By this stage, prison staff, wardens, and inmates had been pressed into the HKVDC. Among them was "Crumb" Chattey, a former captain of the 1st Middlesex serving a court-martial sentence for homosexual offences under the law of the time. Chattey assumed command of forty jailers and assorted men, including the colony executioner, who mounted a spirited defense. Japanese forces massed on Taitam Road with obvious intent to crush Stanley's remaining defense. Their first assault failed but destroyed two 18-pounders and two 2-pounder guns. Shortly before 2100 hours, a second attack commenced, this time supported by three tankettes. Two were destroyed by 2-pounders, yet No. 2 HKVDC Company was forced back to Stanley village with most of its men lost. Major H. R. Forsyth, the company commander, was recommended for a Victoria Cross for his stubborn defense against overwhelming odds. After midnight, a pillbox manned by C Company of the 1st Middlesex was overrun; Sergeant Sheehan and most of his crew were killed. The HKVDC line fractured. During all of this chaos, at midnight of the the Japanese made it to the field hospital at St Stephens College and this is where our story is going to take one of its darkest turns. In the early hours of Christmas day, the Japanese approached St Stephen's hospital which held approximately 96 wounded soldiers. Doctors and nurses stepped forward to surrender. Two doctors in charge, Lt Dr Colonel Black and his second in command Captain Dr Witney Barred the front door and Black called out 'You can't come in here' 'this is a hospital'. With deliberate aim, one of the Japanese soldiers raised his rifle and shot the doctor through the head.The Japanese mob then surged into the hospital ward, the body of Dr Black was repeatedly bayoneted as he lay at the door. The Japanese proceeded to enter the building and a massacre of unprecedented ferocity took place. The Japanese ripped the bandages off the wounded patients and plunged their bayonets into the amputated arms and legs before finishing them off with a bullet. In half an hour fifty-six wounded soldiers had been massacred while the nursing staff looked on helplessly.  They cut off ears, gouged out eyes, beat and raped the nurses. I want to read to you some testimony made by Sister Miss Amelia Fleming Gordon who witnessed what we now call the St Stephens College Massacre, something probably unknown to many outside Canada or Hong Kong. "Just before dawn there was a terrific howl and shortly afterwards Japanese arrived in large numbers at the front entrance. Captain Scotcher was pulled out and shortly afterwards he instructed me to come out and put my hands above my head. They took my steel helmet and cracked me over the head with it, searched my pockets, took off my red cross band and removed my watch that I had. They shouted for everyone to come out and everyone did except Sgt Parkin, who attempted to run past but was shot dead. We were marched single file into one of the adjacent classrooms, the patients also being brought in. Here we remained for about an hour or two, crowded and huddled together with no room to lie or sit down. Several of our patients between 50 to 60 I imagine were killed during the day. After 2 hours we were marched in single file upstairs and saw dead bodies and blood covering the stairs. We were then put into different classrooms, I went into a small room with four VADS (Mrs smith, Mrs Begg, Mrs Buxton and Mrs Simmons) where there were 5 chinese women. At 4:30m some Japanese soldiers came in and removed Mrs Smith, Begg and Buxton, I never saw them again. One of the Chinese girls told Mrs Simmons they had taken out the 3 women to kill them and would return for us. We were later ordered to bandage wounded Japanese soldiers. They took us to another room overlooking the tennis court, where there were five dead bodies of Red Cross personnel. We were made to sit on these dead bodies. I and Mrs Fideo were taken to other rooms. In my room there were two dead bodies, and I was made to take off all my clothes whilst they removed theirs. Before touching me they apparently became afraid someone was coming and made me put my clothes on again and I was returned to the room where Mrs Simmons and Mrs Andrews-Levinge still were. Mrs Fideo joined us almost immediately in a weeping state and told us she had been raped. We were left in peace for a short time only, 3 soldiers came in and took me in a small adjacent bathroom, knocked me down and all raped me one after the other, and then let me return. Mrs Fideo was then taken and underwent a similar experience. Both Mrs Fideo and I were then taken out a second time and raped as before Mrs Simmons and Mrs Andrews-levigne remained untouched. We were all now desperate and discovering there was a Yale lock on the door we pulled it locking ourselves in. They returned several times during the night but did not force an entrance."   Rifle man Sydney Skelton of "D" company of the Royal Rifles had this to say. ""The Japs stormed the hospital throwing grenades and bayoneting the wounded. I had rolled under a bed and lay as still as I could. A Jap turned me over, kicked me in the face, and tore off my bandages. I didn't move, or make a sound. The guy must have thought I was dead and took off. I heard screams coming from outside, terrible screams I can still hear in my head twenty years later. I saw a Jap coming into the hospital and take men outside at random. One of the wounded they dragged from his bed, cut off his ears, and ripped out his tongue. Then they took him outside and shot him. There was a lull in the din and he heard a British officer shout: "If you can walk or crawl to the door you may be allowed to live."  At this point Skelton tried to crawl to the door: "I was really confused from the anesthetic and I started to crawl, dragging my blanket, towards the door. A guy just ahead of me, a Hong Kong Volunteer, with a clasp knife in his belt, but his hands raised, was bayoneted as soon as he went out the door. The Padre grabbed me and slapped me to my senses. I'm alive today, thanks to him." A Japanese officer entered the hospital, saw Skelton with his wounds bleeding. He tore off Skelton's watch, hit him with the flat side of his sword and ordered him to go upstairs. Though badly wounded, Skelton crawled up the stairs and into a room that would be his prison for the next two days. Skelton spent nearly four years as a captive, first in Hong Kong and later in Japan where he worked as a slave labourer in a coal mine. Somehow, he made it home, where he lived in Scarsboro, Ontario. In a 1961 interview, he said: "Twenty years have passed, but I can never forget Christmas, 1941." On Christmas morning, Brigadier Wallis ordered C Company of the Royal Rifles of Canada to lead a counter-attack retaking the bungalows on Stanley village's ridge. Lieutenant Colonel Home refused. Wallis deployed D Company of the Winnipeg Grenadiers under Major Parker instead. At 1300 hours, the attack went in without artillery support. The 18th Platoon under Sergeant McDonnell penetrated to Stanley village, inflicting heavy casualties in savage hand-to-hand combat, but was eventually driven back to the fort. Of 148 men who attacked, only 44 answered roll call at day's end. Urban defense collapsed in stages. Using mines and a Bofors 40-millimeter gun in an anti-personnel role, the 230th Regiment pushed into Wanchai, held up briefly at the China Fleet Club. At Wanchai Market, an 18-pounder was destroyed. Japanese forces reached the Naval Dockyard's western boundary. The Rajputs fell back west of the racecourse. Mount Parish fell, opening the final approach to Victoria City. Back on December 21st, General Maltby sent a communique to the war office indicated that resistance was almost at an end. According to Sir John Kennedy, the director of Military operations in London "We had to decide whether to order the troops to fight it out or give the Governor permission to surrender as he wished to do... the psychological aspect was of overriding importance, particularly with an Oriental enemy. If we fought to the last round and the last man at Hong Kong, we should gain an indirect military advantage, in that the Japanese would judge our powers of resistance elsewhere by the same standard. Therefore my opinion was that, although it was an unpleasant decision, the garrison should be told to fight it out.". When Prime Minister Churchill was informed he sent a typical churchillian message "there must be no thought of surrender..the enemy must be compelled to expend the utmost life and equipment. There must be vigorous fighting in the inner defenses, and, if need be, from house to house. Every day that you are able to maintain your resistance will help the allied cause". Both the Governor and General had little choice but to agree, on Christmas the governors message was "fight on. Hold fast for king and empire".  By the afternoon it was clear further resistance was futile. At 1530 hours on December 25, Governor Young officially surrendered. A white flag rose over the colony. Young and Major General Maltby crossed Victoria Harbour from Queen's Pier to meet General Sakai at the Peninsula Hotel, renamed "Toa" by its new occupants. It was the first occasion on which a British Crown Colony had surrendered to an invading force. The garrison had held out for 17 days, the day is known in Hong Kong as "black christmas". Lieutenant Colonel R. G. Lamb and Lieutenant J. T. Prior descended from Fortress Headquarters to Stanley to order Brigadier Wallis to lay down arms. Wallis refused without written confirmation. When Major Harland arrived with official orders, Wallis finally capitulated. At 0230 hours on December 26, 1941, he and 2,000 men crossed the lines in surrender. Two days later, on the 28th, the Japanese staged a 2,000-man victory parade led by Lieutenant General Sano on a white horse. While the general paraded, his troops—officially granted three days of "rest and recreation"—embarked on systematic rape and pillage across the fallen colony. Rear-Admiral Chan Chak arrived in Hong Kong in 1938 as an unlikely businessman—General Manager of a stockbroker's firm—but his true role was far more consequential. The one-legged Chinese admiral commanded the Military Mission tasked with coordinating China's war effort with British operations. Working seamlessly with the police special branch and intelligence services, Chan orchestrated a shadow campaign against Japanese sympathizers and traitors, drawing on a network of Nationalist agents, many of whom carried Triad connections. His inner circle included Col. Yee Shiu Kee of Chinese intelligence (posing as an insurance salesman), Lt. Cdr. Henry Hsu as aide-de-camp, and Coxswain Yeung Chuen as bodyguard. As Governor Young prepared to sign the unconditional surrender on Christmas afternoon 1941, Chan received permission to lead an escape attempt. The 2nd MTB Flotilla—vessels MTBs 7, 9, 10, 11 and 27—waited in hiding near Aberdeen Island, but Chan's perilous journey through Victoria's ruins delayed his arrival. Finding the MTBs absent, he boarded HMS Cornflower II instead, only to come under withering machine-gun fire as the launch attempted to reach open water. Abandon ship was called. Chan removed his wooden leg and surrendered his lifebuoy to his non-swimming bodyguard, diving into the chaos with Lt. Cdr. Hsu. Almost immediately, a Japanese bullet tore through Chan's wrist—a crippling wound for a one-armed, one-legged swimmer fighting through hostile fire. The Japanese, sensing they had their quarry, ignited the hillside grass with tracer rounds to drive the men back into the sea. Col. Yee remained aboard the bullet-riddled vessel and was last seen attempting to hide; he would eventually make his way to unoccupied China after several harrowing days. The other escapees scattered across Aberdeen Island in desperation. Hearing the gunfire from their concealment on the far side of the island, the MTBs approached cautiously, rescuing survivors as they went. By 2130 hours on Christmas Day, sixty-eight survivors were racing toward Mirs Bay to rendezvous with Communist guerrillas. There the MTBs were scuttled after valuables were salvaged, and the escape party was welcomed as heroes and guided safely to Huizhou in unoccupied China. This dramatic flight marked the first of many escapes and signaled the beginning of Allied cooperation with the Chinese Communist forces. As British forces withdrew from Kowloon, a new force emerged from the shadows. The Guangdong People's Anti-Japanese Guerrillas East River Column (ERC)—a battle-hardened Communist organization founded in 1938—took up the struggle against the Japanese invaders. The ERC had consolidated various local anti-Japanese forces that sprang up after Guangzhou fell to Japan, anchoring itself on two formidable core units: Zeng Sheng's Baoan People's Anti-Japanese Guerrilla Main Force and Wang Zuorao's East Baoan regiment. By the eve of Hong Kong's invasion, the Third and Fifth Column fielded fifteen hundred fighters—seasoned veterans who had waged three years of resistance across Guangdong Province. Even as the British capitulated, Chinese Hongkongers—farmers and fishermen mostly—took up arms alongside their Communist allies. By year's end, over one hundred ERC members operated clandestinely in Hong Kong. In February 1942, to better organize this growing force, the HKKIB was formally established under Cai Guoliang's command, with Political Commissar Chen Daming answering to Zeng Sheng as overall commander of the ERC. The ERC's first mission was audacious in scope: rescue prominent Chinese and foreign VIPs trapped in Hong Kong. While China burned, the colony had remained a haven for industrialists, politicians, authors and dignitaries fleeing the war—now all vulnerable to Japanese occupation. Between December 1941 and June 1942, the ERC spirited over eight hundred key figures past Japanese lines to safety, while simultaneously escorting more than two thousand overseas Chinese volunteers eager to join the anti-Japanese war effort. The guerrillas also became architects of POW liberation. In March 1942, when British prisoners were forced to labor at Kai Tak Airport, the ERC deployed English-speaking operatives disguised as street vendors to infiltrate the airfield and extract Captain Thompson and four comrades through the rainwater culvert system. Among notable rescues were Lt. Col. Ride of the HKVDC (who would establish the British Army Aid Group), naval officers including Lt. J. W. Hurston of the Royal Navy, artillery officer Lt. G. D. Clagne, Indian soldiers such as Lashkar Singh and Mehnga Singh, and key civilians: the HSBC banker T. J. J. Fenwick, Police Superintendent W. P. Thompson, and foreign nationals—Russians, Danes, Norwegians—who found sanctuary in the unoccupied interior. Most were escorted to safety in China, but two Royal Scots soldiers—Joseph Gallaher and Daniel Hodges—remained with the ERC for six weeks, training guerrilla fighters in the use of British weapons and medium machine guns. These two Scottish soldiers became among the few Westerners to fight alongside Chinese Communist forces, a testament to the bonds forged in shared struggle against the Japanese occupier.   The casualty figures for Hong Kong remain contested. General Maltby's immediate post-war reports claimed 2,123 defenders dead or missing with 1,332 wounded, but these were later deemed inflated. The Chief Signal Officer, imprisoned after the surrender, compiled a more credible tally: 2,721 dead and missing. Modern estimates place military casualties around 1,600, including medical personnel from St John Ambulance. Civilian losses proved far grimmer—estimates suggest approximately 7,000 killed. Japanese records tell a different story. The Defence Agency historical section documented 1,720 Japanese deaths, while the Japanese occupation authority's own newspaper, Hong Kong News, reported 1,966 dead and 6,000 wounded on 29 December 1941. On 20 February 1942, Major-General Isogai Rensuke took office as Governor, commanding occupation forces under Brigadier Okada Umekichi. Three independent infantry regiments and supporting artillery maintained control of the colony. The occupiers' brutality would not escape Allied judgment. Major-General Ito, commander of the division's infantry, faced war crimes convictions. More prominently, Lieutenant-General Sakai, the 38th Army's commander and temporary governor, was tried, convicted, and executed by firing squad in 1946. Major-General Isogai received life imprisonment for war crimes but was released in 1967. Lieutenant-General Tanaka, final Japanese Governor and commander of the 23rd Army, was executed in 1947. Of the senior commanders, only Vice-Admiral Niimi survived the war, living to age 106.  General Maltby endured captivity throughout the East, moving from Hong Kong to Shanghai and Taiwan, finally reaching a camp near the Chinese-Mongolian border before repatriation from Shenyang (Mukden). His tenure received no official recognition despite the stubborn defense he had mounted. Lieutenant-Colonel White of the 2 Royal Scots survived internment but died shortly after returning to Britain, his health shattered by cancer. Governor Young resumed office in late 1946, attributing the colony's rapid loss to insufficient Chinese support for the British war effort. His attempts to introduce representative government alarmed London, which promptly replaced him with Sir Robert Black. Young retired in 1947. Maltby, too, retired from the Army soon afterward, also without honor. Not all were forgotten. Rear-Admiral Chan received an honorary KBE from British Ambassador Sir Horace Seymour. Colonel Yee was granted an honorary CBE, and Lieutenant-Commander Henry Hsu an honorary OBE. Hsu, a gifted athlete, became a member of the International Olympic Committee representing Chinese Taipei. Lieutenant-Colonel Stewart of 1 Middlesex died from illness in 1942. Three HKRNVR men—Petty Officer J. W. Fallace, W. C. Johnstone, and civilian Arthur Evans—escaped from the Lisbon Maru and reached Chongqing (Chunking). Of 1,834 POWs aboard that transport, only 716 returned home. Lieutenant Walda, responsible for brutal treatment of prisoners, died before sentencing; Captain Koyda, the Lisbon Maru's commander, received seven years' imprisonment. The British authorities formally acknowledged the East River Column's role—without its aid, no escapee would have survived the treacherous journey to freedom. When future Prime Minister James Callaghan raised questions in Parliament, the government responded with generous monetary awards, free medical care, and employment opportunities for survivors and their families. Many settled in the United Kingdom; others remained to serve in public and private sectors until Hong Kong's return to China in 1997, when the ERC liaison office became the local branch of the New China News Agency. Zeng Sheng, the ERC commander, rose to become Deputy Chief of Staff of the South China Military Region, then Deputy Provincial Governor and Mayor of Guangzhou. Purged during the Cultural Revolution, he was rehabilitated and became Minister of Communication in 1979. He died in Guangzhou in November 1995. One hundred twenty-eight HKVDC members, forty-nine soldiers of the British Army, and fifty personnel from transport and civil defense units escaped to Free China. The RAF transported them to Assam, then Calcutta, via the British Army Aid Group. The first groups joined the 9th Battalion of the Border Regiment at Fort William; the third and fourth joined the 1st Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment. Initially relegated to non-combatant roles, their fortunes changed when Brigadier Michael Calvert—who had served in pre-war Hong Kong commanding the Chinese Sappers—called for volunteers to fight the Japanese in Burma. All stepped forward. After months of intensive training, they were formally enrolled on 14 February 1943 as the Hong Kong Volunteer Company, integrated into Wingate's legendary Chindits, where they would see action deep behind Japanese lines in the jungles of Burma. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me.   During Hong Kong's 1941 Christmas invasion, Japanese forces committed atrocities against wounded soldiers and nurses. After seventeen days of brutal resistance, Governor Young surrendered on December 25th. Rear-Admiral Chan Chak escaped through machine-gun fire, while the East River Column guerrillas conducted daring rescues, extracting over 800 VIPs and 2,000 volunteers to safety in unoccupied China.          

The Hebrides – Inner and Outer – Episode 1: John introduces the first episode of his Unique Scotland podcast on his Outer Hebrides trip as the beginning of a family adventure. Travelling with Pam, their Spaniel Minnie, and friends Irina and Philip and their two boys, Nicholas and Lucas, the journey had been meticulously planned for months. The intention was to travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow Airport, collect the family, continue to Oban and take the ferry directly to Barra, beginning an island-hopping journey through the Outer Hebrides. As John reminds us, however, the best travel stories are often the ones that don't go according to plan. Best laid plans..... The journey west begins with the family reunion at Glasgow Airport before heading towards the Highlands. The first stop is the beautiful conservation village of Luss on Loch Lomond where early Christian traditions are associated with Saint Kessog to its medieval Clan Colquhoun grave slabs and Viking connections. The route then continues through Tarbet and Arrochar, over the historic Rest and Be Thankful, before reaching Inveraray on Loch Fyne. Here the party admires Inveraray Castle and its planned town, while the boys particularly enjoy the atmospheric Inveraray Jail, bringing nineteenth-century justice vividly to life. The real drama begins in Oban, the traditional "Gateway to the Isles". The problem is not the weather but the shortage of available CalMac vessels, highlighting the wider importance—and continuing problems—of Scotland's island ferry network. A refund is offered, but with hotels, flights and the entire holiday depending on the crossing, John decides that simply abandoning the trip is not an option. Instead, the family accepts a rerouting via Skye, turning a major disappointment into an unexpected opportunity. The revised journey takes them north through Fort William and Glenfinnan, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. Nearby is the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, immortalised by the Harry Potter films. The road continues along the spectacular Road to the Isles to Mallaig, where the family boards the ferry to Armadale on Skye. Arriving on Skye, the unexpected diversion becomes a highlight in its own right. The group travels through Sleat, visits Armadale castle and learns about the powerful MacDonald Lords of the Isles before continuing towards Broadford and the dramatic Cuillin Hills. With storm 'Dave' following hard on their heels, the family finally make it to Uig where they spend the night before catching the next ferry to Barra on the Outer Hebrides. However, with more surprises in store, the story continues in the next episode…..  

Sheepdog Experience in UigThe Wolfie Lodge in Carbost (Easily in the top 3 AirBnB's we've EVER stayed in!)Airbnb in Onich (near Ft William)The Isle of Skye completely wins us over with misty roads, unreal scenery, and a base in tiny Carbost that feels like a movie set. We share our exact itinerary, our biggest planning mistakes, and the specific stops that make a Scotland family road trip feel doable and memorable.• flying London to Inverness early to save money • renting a car for left-side driving and using primary rental insurance coverage • choosing Carbost as a home base and why we want more nights next time • finding food in small towns and what to buy as backups • Staffin Bay dinosaur footprints and why low tide timing matters • the sheepdog herding experience in Uig and why it becomes a trip highlight • Portree stops for photos, shops, and a reliable dinner plan • Fairy Pools hike lessons learned and how to avoid turning back too soon • Three Chimneys lunch and pairing it with Talisker nearby • Talisker Distillery tour plus how water changes peaty Scotch • leaving Skye for Fort William with a stop at Eilean Donan Castle • Glenfinnan viewpoint for the Jacobite steam train and what the crowds are like • Glencoe visitor center, history notes, and quick food options • The Geographer in Fort William and our first haggis taste test Find me on Instagram if you have questions If Scotland has been on your bucket list and you're waiting for a sign, this is your sign

Cold hearts, warm flesh.Emma Cownley is joined by Ithaqua director Casey Walker to discuss the gripping survival horror film which has its world premiere at FrightFest in London on Saturday 29th August!Canada, the 1800s. American mercenary Cole Franklin is recruited as a hired gun at the remote outpost of Fort William, struggling to survive the decline of the fur trade. With dwindling supplies, the keepers of the Fort blackmail Cole into leading a trading party to a nearby Indigenous village, where they discover a massacre and encounter the remaining half-crazed inhabitants for the bloodshed.Though the trading party survives with minimal losses and returns to the Fort with a bonanza of food and furs, the supernatural force responsible for the carnage follows them back.https://frightfest.co.uk/LondoN2026/https://frightfest.co.uk/LondoN2026/ithaqua.htmlwww.horrorhangout.co.ukPodcast - https://fanlink.tv/horrorhangoutPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/horrorhangoutFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/horrorhangoutpodcastX - https://x.com/horror_hangout_TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@horrorhangoutpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/horrorhangoutpodcastThreads - https://www.threads.com/@horrorhangoutpodcastIMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt29623213/Emma - https://www.instagram.com/ejcownley/Casey - Cold hearts, warm flesh.Emma Cownley is joined by Ithaqua director Casey Walker to discuss the gripping survival horror film which has its world premiere at FrightFest in London on Saturday 29th August!Canada, the 1800s. American mercenary Cole Franklin is recruited as a hired gun at the remote outpost of Fort William, struggling to survive the decline of the fur trade. With dwindling supplies, the keepers of the Fort blackmail Cole into leading a trading party to a nearby Indigenous village, where they discover a massacre and encounter the remaining half-crazed inhabitants for the bloodshed.Though the trading party survives with minimal losses and returns to the Fort with a bonanza of food and furs, the supernatural force responsible for the carnage follows them back.https://frightfest.co.uk/LondoN2026/https://frightfest.co.uk/LondoN2026/ithaqua.htmlwww.horrorhangout.co.ukPodcast - https://fanlink.tv/horrorhangoutPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/horrorhangoutFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/horrorhangoutpodcastX - https://x.com/horror_hangout_TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@horrorhangoutpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/horrorhangoutpodcastThreads - https://www.threads.com/@horrorhangoutpodcastIMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt29623213/Emma - https://www.instagram.com/ejcownley/Casey - https://www.instagram.com/thatcaseywalker/Audio credit - Taj Eastonhttp://tajeaston.comAudio credit - Taj Eastonhttp://tajeaston.comSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/thehorrorhangout. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Capture of Fort William and Mary" by Charles Lathrop Parsons recounts the pivotal events of December 14, 1774, when local Patriots in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, led by John Langdon, stormed Fort William and Mary. This daring raid resulted in the seizure of gunpowder, which was distributed among towns in preparation for the impending conflict with Great Britain. The following day, John Sullivan and his compatriots returned to capture cannons that would later play a crucial role in the Battle of Bunker Hill. This significant act not only marks one of the first overt actions of the American Revolutionary War but also highlights themes of courage, community, and the fight for independence that resonate strongly today.

DAY 6Today, Saturday 18 July 2026, we continued with Day 6 of Recharging Round Britain the final leg, where we are trying to, as closely as we can, recreate the route we undertook nearly a decade ago. Hear how we got on yesterday to the final destination of Fort William and today as we travelled from Fort William, via Bothwell services, Tebay services, Killington Lakes services, Blackpool and the end of the road near Preston.CHARGING SPONSORThanks to our charging sponsor, GRIDSERVE, They have an EV charging network that spans almost the whole of the UK.While you can just turn up and pay with a debit card or their app, you can also get 25% off charging rates at all 200 of their locations with GRIDSERVE Plus.GRIDSERVE Plus costs just £7.99/month and can be cancelled at any time, much like many gym memberships, and as well as the discounted charging, there are many other seasonal membership benefits such as EV heathchecks while you charge, pet portraits, and similar.Many people take out Gridserve Plus for a month at a time to cover a holiday or seasonal travel.There's more information at gridserve.com/membership/VEHICLE SPONSORThank you to Hyundai, who once again have loaned us an electric vehicle enabling us to travel around as much of Britain as we can in six days. This time, we are using an Inster 02. To find out more on the Inster, you can listen to Alan's time with one during the UK launch of the car, by clicking this link here.To see more about the car, from Hyundai themselves, click this link here.If you like what we do, on this show, and think it is worth a £1.00, please consider supporting us via Patreon. Here is the link to that CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

DAY 5Today, Friday 17 July 2026, we continued with Day 5 of Recharging Round Britain, where we are trying to, as closely as we can, recreate the route we undertook nearly a decade ago. Hear how we got on today as we travelled from Inverness, via Wick, John o'Groats, Tongue, Lairg, Ullapool and hopefully ending up at Fort William.CHARGING SPONSORThanks to our charging sponsor, GRIDSERVE, They have an EV charging network that spans almost the whole of the UK.While you can just turn up and pay with a debit card or their app, you can also get 25% off charging rates at all 200 of their locations with GRIDSERVE Plus.GRIDSERVE Plus costs just £7.99/month and can be cancelled at any time, much like many gym memberships, and as well as the discounted charging, there are many other seasonal membership benefits such as EV heathchecks while you charge, pet portraits, and similar.Many people take out Gridserve Plus for a month at a time to cover a holiday or seasonal travel.There's more information at gridserve.com/membership/VEHICLE SPONSORThank you to Hyundai, who once again have loaned us an electric vehicle enabling us to travel around as much of Britain as we can in six days. This time, we are using an Inster 02. To find out more on the Inster, you can listen to Alan's time with one during the UK launch of the car, by clicking this link here.To see more about the car, from Hyundai themselves, click this link here.If you like what we do, on this show, and think it is worth a £1.00, please consider supporting us via Patreon. Here is the link to that CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

'De liefde, wat kan ze mooi zijn', denkt de Schotse Caroline Muirhead. Het is snel gegaan, ze is na enkele maanden daten verloofd met Alexander McKellar – maar if you know you know, toch? 'Is er iets uit je verleden wat van invloed kan zijn op onze toekomst samen?' vraagt Caroline. Een antwoord verwacht ze niet, maar Alexander antwoordt wel: een volmondige 'ja'. Hier is aflevering 186! Zit je met iets? Praat bij Tele-Onthaal over wat jou bezighoudt. Bel anoniem en gratis naar 106 (24u/7d) of chat via tele-onthaal.be Met de aanbieding van het moment geniet je van 30% korting op je eerste aankoop bij Just Russel en krijg je er gratis zalmolie bij. Gebruik hiervoor de code VOLKSJURY30 of surf naar https://justrussel.com/volksjury/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=influencerpaid&utm_campaign=test_tof_conversion&utm_term=be_nl_influencer-followers_offercoupon&utm_content=volksjury30_video_general Zomersolden 2026 - Tot 60% korting op emma-matras.be - Van 1 juli tot en met 31 juli - Uitzonderlijke aanbieding: ontvang 12% extra korting met de code: “VOLKSJURY12” voor de eerste 150 gebruikers, daarna ontvang je 10% extra korting met de code “VOLKSJURY10” Voornaamste bronnen: Alloa and Hillfoots Advertiser - BBC Murder Case; Death of Tillicoultry cyclist Tony Parsons BBC - Appeal to end missing cyclist Tony Parsons mystery BBC - Driver admits killing charity cyclist then burying body BBC - Driver who killed cyclist Tony Parsons then buried body is jailed BBC - Family appeal to end missing cyclist mystery BBC - Human remains found in search for missing cyclist Tony Parsons BBC - Killer driver led girlfriend to shallow grave where he buried cyclist BBC - Man disappears during 104-mile cycle from Fort William to Tillicoultry BBC - Renewed appeal for missing A82 cyclist Tony Parsons BBC - Six-figure pay-out over charity cyclist killing BBC - Tony Parsons; Funeral held for cyclist missing for three years BBC - Tony Parsons; How a Red Bull can helped solve mystery of missing cyclist in Argyll BBC - Tony Parsons; Police investigated over killed cyclist probe Cosmopolitan - Where is Alexander 'Sandy' McKellar after confessing to Tony Parsons' murder? Cosmopolitan - Where is Caroline Muirhead now; The true story behind Netflix's 'Should I Marry a Murderer' De Morgen - In hun drang naar opwinding gooien ook de makers van ‘Should I Marry a Murderer’ hun kroongetuige voor de leeuwen People - Tony Parsons Was Fatally Hit by a Drunk Driver While Cycling. Inside the Case VRT NWS - Hoe een blikje Red Bull de 3 jaar oude mysterieuze verdwijning van een fietser in Schotland hielp oplossen See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and emotional episode, we welcome Melissa McLarnon to the podcast.After being timed out at Beinglas in the 2025 West HighlandWay Race and a subsequent battle with anxiety and mental health challenges, Melissa returned this year with a completely different mindset. What follows is a story of resilience, recovery, friendship, and ultimately crossing the finish line of Scotland's iconic 95-mile ultra.Key MomentsFrom DNF to FinisherMelissa shares the disappointment of missing the Beinglas cutoff by just 10 minutes in 2025 and the emotional toll it took in the months that followed.Mental Health and RecoveryAn open and honest discussion about anxiety, therapy, seeking support, and rebuilding confidence one small step at a time.The Power of CommunityFrom her husband Gordon, coach Karen, Wildheart Runners,Garscube Harriers and countless friends, Melissa reflects on the people who helped her get back to the start line.A Different Approach in 2026Armed with stronger mindset tools, visualisation practicesand more confidence, Melissa describes a race that felt entirely different from the year before.Devil's Staircase KaraokeOne of the episode's funniest stories sees Melissa and friends tackling the Devil's Staircase while belting out Kylie Minogue classics in the middle of the night.The FinishThe emotion of reaching Fort William, becoming the final official finisher, and receiving her goblet in one of the most cherished traditions in Scottish ultrarunning. Enjoy the episode, and if you've ever faced a setback in running or life, this one's for you. "This year wasn't about proving anything. It was a celebration of getting myself back to the start line." Melissa McLarnon, 2026 

Puffins that waddle right up to you, dolphins pacing the bow, sea eagles overhead and a sea cave so famous it sparked a Mendelssohn symphony. It all sounds like a once in a lifetime trip. We wanted to make it something you can actually plan, even if you are travelling without a car and juggling real-world ferry times, bus links and unpredictable Scottish weather.We pick up the journey in Oban and talk through a clear Inner Hebrides itinerary built around public transport: ferry over to the Isle of Mull, bus to Tobermory for a few nights, then a full day boat trip to Lunga for puffins and on to Staffa for Fingal's Cave. Along the way we share the unglamorous details that make or break island travel, like when to arrive as a foot passenger, what layers you genuinely need on the water, how popular tours sell out, and why bringing your own food is non-negotiable on some boat days.From there we cover the wider Mull experience with a guided wildlife tour for golden eagles and white tailed eagles, then travel across to Fionnphort for a day on Iona. We talk about Iona Abbey, the island's distinctive feel, the Book of Kells connection, and how to book ferries in the right order and handle cancellations when they happen.The trip finishes with a scenic ride to Fort William and an overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper, turning the journey home into part of the adventure. Subscribe, share with a friend planning a UK trip, and a quick review on your favourite podcast app means the world.

This week we're joined by physics teacher and West Highland Way – Great Glen FKT holder, Freya Shepherd.It's an incredible story of learning, grit and resilience. After her first attempt ended early at Fort William, Freya dusted herself off, rallied an army of friends and family, and went back out to complete the full 175‑mile journey in 2 days, 15 hours, 43 minutes and 16 seconds.She talks us through the highs, the lows, the wobbly moments, the hallucinations, the power of community, and of course, every snack that kept her moving forward.HARRIER - Use code TATP10 for 10% off - https://harrierrunfree.avln.me/c/qXhnTgIdEMeaXMILES UK - Listeners receive 10% of their order value back as store credit via the link - https://xmiles.avln.me/c/RiwxnARvfHeRFENIX LIGHT LTD - Use code T&T5 for 5% - https://www.fenixlight.co.uk/PRECISION FUEL & HYDRATION - Use code TEA2026 for 15% off your first orderPRECISION FUEL & HYDRATION PLANNER - https://visit.pfandh.com/3RuP25zSTRAVA - Use code TEA for 20% off an annual membership - #StravaPartner #Adhttps://www.strava.com/subscribe/checkout?code=TEAASCEND APP - Use code TeaandTrails30 to receive 30% off a monthly subscription.https://ascendtrailapp.avln.me/c/MOwNWISPDOwiContent may contain affiliate links which help support and grow this channel at no extra cost to you.Brew with the Coaches - CLICK HEREHardmoors - https://www.hardmoors110.org.uk/Trail Outlaws - https://www.trailoutlaws.com/13 Valleys Ultra - https://www.13valleysultra.com/Beyond Trails - https://www.beyondtrails.co.uk/Hellfire Events - https://www.hellfireevents.com/Dales Runner - https://dalesrunner.co.uk/Hannah Walsh - https://www.hannahwalsh.co.uk/Punk Panther - https://www.punkpanther.co.uk/Pen Llyn Ultra - https://penllyn.niftyentries.com/Raw Adventures - https://www.raw-adventures.co.uk/XNRG - https://www.xnrg.co.uk/

God and Guns Podcast GNG 367 - Liberty Has a Price   Intro: Welcome back to Episode 367 of the God and Guns Podcast . I'm your host, Troy. (Doug) And I'm your other host Doug. (Troy) We use this podcast to talk about  God, guns, and the responsible Christian gun owners' interests. On this week's God and Guns Podcast we will be discussing the price of Liberty.   Want to thank our sponsors:  Bandwidth Sponsor:   Firearms Radio Network - Other Shows - Content   Patriot Patch Co   This Week's God and Gun activities: Doug: God: sportsman daily devotional   Guns: EDC . Been working way to many hours at work and have not had much of a break. Grand kids soccer, softball. Went to Panama city last week for a couple days.   Troy: God: Daily Bible Reading, Church, Church Security   Guns: got a Ruger Scout Rifle, scope and rings.     Family:    Farm: Corn and SoyBeans are planted, Alfalfa was replanted. First baby calf of spring.   Ham: Heading to Dayton Hamvention in a couple weeks. Shop it done, ready to start setting up the ham shack and move tools in. EDC Check: Troy: Shadow Systems XR920n a Crossbreed Super-Tuck Holster, using a STOG Enhanced Life Saver, Sof-T Tourniquet, steam light    Doug:  Sig P365 with Romeo Zero optic . Hornady critical duty ammo. Benchmark OTF.    Feedback:  ITunes   Comedy   On this day in History: 1863 The Union army issues General Orders No. 100, which provided a code of conduct for Federal soldiers and officers when dealing with Confederate prisoners and civilians. The code was borrowed by many European nations, and its influence can be seen on the Geneva Convention.    Bible Verse Galatians 5:13 ESV For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. Galatians 5:1 ESV For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. John 8:36 ESV  So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. 2 Corinthians 3:17 ESV  Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.   Main Topic Liberty has a price, can you pay it? Will you pay it?   Division- social media push Founding Fathers sacrifice    Striking the match.  Paul Revere's ride  In David Hackett Fischer's Paul Revere's Ride, the section (primarily in the chapter “First Strokes,” around the Powder Alarm of September 1, 1774) describes the initial British moves under General Thomas Gage that escalated tensions and effectively “struck the match” for open conflict leading to the American Revolution.52 Context and Gage's Dilemma By 1774, after the Intolerable Acts and the dissolution of Massachusetts' charter government, Gage (the royal governor and commander) faced a growing patriot resistance network in New England. He sought to disarm the colonists and seize military stores (gunpowder, arms, and cannon) without provoking full-scale war, believing a show of force could restore order while upholding British law and parliamentary authority. Paul Revere and other Boston mechanics, meanwhile, had built an intelligence and alarm system to counter such moves.42 The Powder Alarm (September 1, 1774) – The First Major “Stroke” Gage secretly ordered ~260 British troops (under Lt. Col. Maddison) to seize ~250 barrels of provincial gunpowder from the Powder House near Cambridge and move two cannon from Boston Common. The operation succeeded quietly by noon, with no immediate resistance. Word spread rapidly, however. Rumors (exaggerated) flew that the British had fired on civilians, killed people, and were marching to disarm the countryside. This triggered the “Powder Alarm”: thousands of New England militiamen mobilized and marched toward Boston.57 This event served as a critical trial run. It exposed the strengths and weaknesses of the patriot alarm system (which Revere helped organize) and showed Gage that force could backfire by unifying and mobilizing the colonists. Fischer portrays it as a pivotal escalation: the first direct British strike on colonial military resources, met by a massive popular response that stopped short of bloodshed but heightened fears on both sides.43 Subsequent “Strokes” and Mounting Tensions Fischer outlines follow-on incidents that built momentum (in “Mounting Tensions”): Portsmouth Alarm (December 1774): Revere rode to warn patriots, who seized powder and arms from Fort William and Mary before British reinforcements arrived. Salem Alarm (February 1775): Another failed British attempt to seize stores led to a tense standoff but no shots. These “strikes” and counters created a cycle of suspicion, intelligence-gathering (Revere's network spied on British plans), and militia preparedness. Patriots formed an elaborate “alarm and muster” system, while Gage planned the Concord expedition to capture stores and leaders (Adams and Hancock).46 Why These Events “Struck the Match” Fischer emphasizes contingency and human agency rather than inevitability. Gage acted from principle (rule of law and loyalty to Parliament) but underestimated colonial resolve and organization. Revere and leaders like Joseph Warren turned defensive intelligence into proactive resistance. These early clashes radicalized opinion, tested systems, and made compromise impossible—setting the stage for the April 18–19, 1775, events at Lexington and Concord, where the “match” ignited open war.31 In short, Fischer presents these “first strokes” not as isolated incidents but as the spark that transformed political resistance into armed revolution through a series of escalating British disarmament efforts and effective patriot countermeasures. The book vividly shows how ordinary people, coordinated action, and miscalculations drove history forward.   Show Sponsor: Patriot Patch   How you can help out the show: Patches and Stickers Using the following links help support our show. Subscribestar GodandGuns you have to set up for repeat donation if you want it monthly. www.subscribestar.com/god-and-guns Powertac Lights - godandguns Crossbreed Holsters - GNG Armed Citizen Two minor celebrities found an alleged trespasser prowling on their Los Angeles grounds shortly after midnight on April 17. Barbara Palvin, a model, called 911 and reported the “creepy guy,” as her husband, actor Dylan Sprouse, successfully held the man at gunpoint until police arrived.The suspect was arrested for outstanding warrants, though the couple apparently did not choose to press charges for trespassing. (people.com, New York, N.Y., 4/18/26)     Wrap Up: -Send feedback to GodandGunsTV@gmail.com -Please tell your friends about us, leave an iTunes review, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/godandgunspodcast -Subscribe to us and follow us on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrKWNsJr5LlrUcBYOe-oSLw -And search for us on Instagram too. -We are on Rumble too GodandGuns -Website - Http://www.godandgunspodcast.com -Until next time, Have a blessed week. And keep your guns close but your bible closer.  

Dr Shane Strachan has written a poem which encourages people to explore a new poetry and artwork trail along the 53-mile Formartine and Buchan Way. Rachel meets Shane to find out how he got involved.In this week's podcast excerpt, Mark is in Glasgow with Professor Dee Heddon and Dr Rachel Clive of Glasgow University Theatre Studies to hear about the play Three Words for Forest. The play explores the challenges, hopes and fears of those working in the forestry industry at a time of climate crisis.Rachel joins photographer Richard Cook on the River Dee to search for dippers and to chat about his book Dippers on the Dee.Mark looks for lapwings with Warden Lorna Dow at RSPB Loch of Strathbeg and learns about how semi-feral conic ponies are helping manage the wetlands to encourage the birds to use the site.Mark is near Fort William to discover how a detection dog is sniffing out an invasive marine species known as ‘sea vomit'. Dr Texa Sim explains how her labrador, Uisge, tracks down the carpet-like sea squirt.Mark and Rachel are joined by Mark Greaves from Ordnance Survey to talk trig points as we celebrate the 90th anniversary of the iconic pillars.Mark hops on a catamaran to check out the gannets on Bass Rock on the Firth of Forth and to chat to Emily Burton, conservation manager at Scottish Seabird Centre, about drone surveys that are helping to monitor how the birds are faring since the outbreak of avian flu in 2022.Dundreggan Rewilding Centre in Glenmoriston is offering those living with dementia and their carers the opportunity to experience nature through a residential course. Mark meets some of those participating, and Professor Ann Dennis of the University of the Highlands and Islands explains how the programme runs.

2. This segment explores Marblehead's status as a prosperous fishing port and the formation of its unique militia. O'Donnell highlights the roles of wealthy, self-made leaders like John Glover. The Marbleheaders' successful raid on Fort William and Mary secured vital gunpowder, marking some of the war's earliest shots. (2)1790 JOHN TRUMBULL. BUNKER HILL

Register for the Leicester talk at https://tannerocampbell.com/events -- Stoic Journaling program 50% OFF at https://stoicjournaling.com use code EASTER50 -- Tanner reflects on his recent speaking tour across Scotland—including stops in Glasgow, Fort William, Isle of Skye, Inverness, Ballater, Perth, and Dundee—and explains how the experience reshaped his perspective on what it means to “do the work” as a public philosopher. While the podcast continues to reach a wide audience, in-person engagement proved uniquely impactful. As a result, Tanner is exploring live Stoicism workshops as a core extension of his work. This episode introduces a pilot event: a one-day Stoicism workshop in Leicester, designed to test whether live teaching can become a sustainable and meaningful part of his professional model. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Calum Maclean meets Kerry MacPhee and Beth Legg of Bike Trossachs at the Gravelfoyle event in Aberfoyle, where the gravel bike racing season started with a race called the Gravelfoyle 10.The Nevis Range mountain bike season has just kicked off and the Mountain Bike Uplift is open. Mark meets John Sutherland to find out how the gondola works.Helen Needham joins artist Jane Frere as she puts the finishing touches to her latest exhibition The Ark, which is showing at The Barn in Banchory. At the centre of the exhibition is a giant pastel of a tree of life containing drawings of over 170 species facing extinction.In this week's podcast excerpt, Mark meets Harry Fleming, owner of a cold war bunker on the Aberdeenshire coast. Mark hears the story of the bunker from the 1950s to the present day.Mark and Calum are joined by vintage cycling enthusiast Scott Simpson, who runs the Vintage Cycling Scotland Facebook group and repairs and refurbishes older models to get them out on the road once more.In 2022, Nick Gardner from Aultbea completed all of Scotland's 282 Munros. When he set off he was 80 and he was 82 when he finished. A new film about Nick's achievement has recently been released and Calum catches up with Nick and one of the film's directors, Jay Golian, in Aberfeldy to find out more about The Oldest Munro Bagger.Mark is back at the Nevis Range near Fort William to make his way down the Blue Doon bike trail.

Witajcie w podcaście Black Hat Ultra!Dzisiaj usłyszycie gościa, którego historia jest równie mocna jak jego nogi. Pochodzi z Piły, gdzie uczył angielskiego. W 2013 roku przeprowadził się do Szkocji, do Mallaig - małej rybackiej miejscowości w Highlands. Ten rok był jak nowy początek życia, bo za zmianą miejsca zamieszkania poszło również odstawienie używek i rozpoczęcie biegania po okolicznych wzgórzach.Paweł Cymbalista, bo tak się nazywa dzisiejszy gość, od tamtej pory nie zatrzymał się ani razu.W ciągu ostatnich lat nazbierał imponującą listę wyników. Cape Wrath Trail 376 kilometrów, 13 000 metrów przewyższenia, bez wsparcia, w 3 dni i 14 godzin. West Highland Way FKT. Great Glen Way FKT. Highland 4 FKT. A do tego rekord świata na Ben Nevis siedem wejść i zejść w niecałe 23 godziny. Plus trzy klasyki brytyjskiego biegania górskiego: Ramsay Round, Buckley Round i Bob Graham Round wszystkie poniżej 24 godzin.Za swoje dokonania został doceniony na festiwalu w Fort William i otrzymał nagrodę za wschodzący talent szkockiej kultury górskiej.Droga Pawła jest niezwykła, a to, co mnie chyba najbardziej zaskoczyło, to fakt, że Paweł rozpoczął swoje bieganie nie od błędów początkującego, ale od kursu instruktorskiego słyszeliście kiedyś taki przypadek?Ostatnio Paweł stanął na starcie niezwykle trudnego Zimowego Spine Race z zamiarem walki o najwyższe miejsce na podium w tym podcaście usłyszycie, jak ta historia się potoczyła.Zanim zaczniemy, dziękuję bardzo patronom podcastu Black Hat Ultra. Jeśli ten podcast jest dla Ciebie wartościowy i czekasz z niecierpliwością na każdy odcinek dołącz do grona patronów na stronie blackhatultra.pl/wsparcie. To właśnie dzięki patronom ten podcast nadal funkcjonuje.Zapraszam również do sklepu na blackhatultra.pl, gdzie możecie kupić czapkę i koszulkę, wspierając moją działalność.Nie przedłużając zapraszam Was na rozmowę z Pawłem Cymbalistą.Posłuchajcie!

La modernisation du port, l'augmentation de la capacité de conteneurs et le développement d'un nouveau port de pêche à Fort-William seront une réalité. Les recommandations du comité interministériel, présidé par le Deputy Prime Minister, ont été approuvées. Pour les opérateurs dans le privé, ils accueillent cette transition afin que notre port devienne un hub dans la région de l'océan Indien. C'était en janvier que ce comité avait été mis sur pied et depuis, des consultations ont eu lieu avec tous les acteurs concernés, précise Paul Bérenger. Shani Ghurburrun, le directeur d'Emergent Maritime Technologies, reconnaît qu'il est urgent de mettre en place une nouvelle stratégie afin d'assurer la survie du port. Il souligne que les infrastructures portuaires restent un défi majeur. La Mauritius Ports Authority se recentrera sur son rôle d'autorité de régulation et de contrôle du secteur portuaire, tout en continuant à fournir des services maritimes, tandis que la Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd deviendra l'unique opérateur du port.

(Host: Ted) On April 19th, 1775, colonial militia battled the British regulars at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts in what would become the first conflict of the American Revolution. But what if I were to tell you that the first shots were actually fired months before, in December 1774? And not in Massachusetts at all, but in New Hampshire. Join me in this episode of Footnoting History, as we dive into the capture of Fort William and Mary, and the first shots of the American Revolution not heard round the world.

Kelsey sits down with Joy Smith from Franklin, TN, creator of Savvy Travel Mamas (Instagram + podcast), to share the ultimate Harry Potter-inspired trip for a 12-year-old. After Joy's son finished all seven books, she promised to take him to iconic filming locations and bring the magic to life and in summer 2025, they did exactly that!From London highlights and a special Harry Potter afternoon tea to the must-do Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Joy breaks down what to book early and how to plan a perfect kid-approved itinerary. Then it's off to Scotland for jaw-dropping scenery and real-life “Hogwarts” moments, including spotting the Jacobite Steam Train (the “Hogwarts Express”) crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct and visiting the dreamy cloisters at the University of Glasgow. Tune in for practical tips, favorite moments, and the kind of trip your Harry Potter fan will never forget!This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you'd like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this episode:- Vessi Waterproof Travel Sneaker: https://go.shopmy.us/p-44154365- Go City Passes: https://prf.hn/click/camref:1110l7UuS- MINNEAPOLIS: Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, Mall of America- Air France Minneapolis to London on points- LONDON: Holiday Inn Express Victoria, Pimlico Subway Station, The Georgian Hotel, Harry Potter Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Harry Potter Tea, Butterbeer, Tower of London, Crown Jewels, St. Paul's Catherdral, Thames River Cruise, London Eye, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, London Lego Store, Piccadilly Circus, Bread Ahead, London City Airport- SCOTLAND: Glasgow, The Highlands, Fort William, Hogwarts Express, Jacobite Steam Train, Glenfinnan Viaduct, The Garrison Hotel, Ben Nevis Mountain, Mallaig, Fort Augustus, Loch Ness Monster (Nessie), the Cloisters at the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Airport, Scotland Rail- WEST KILBRIDE: Joy visits her family castle, Clan Hunter Home, Hunterston Castle, William Wallace tree from Braveheart- DUBLIN: Hyatt Centric Dublin, Go City Pass, St. Patrick's Cathedral, City Bus Tour, Guinness Tour, Marsha's Library, Aer LingusTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal's Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

I speak to Andy Berry about the Lake District 24-hour Fell Record, which he broke in 2023 with a new time of 23 hours and 23 minutes for 78 peaks.The Fell Record has existed in some form since Victorian times, and has evolved and grown in parallel with the honing of criteria for eligible peaks. This has led to some route quirks, and also the fact that the women's record follows a different route than the men's due to certain peaks being 'baked in' or omitted due to choices and requirements to meet the criteria of the time (the women's record evolving later than the men's and so set with newer criteria in play). Fiona Pascall holds the female record of 68 peaks set in 2022.Peter McDonald has written a book called 'England's Everest: The 200-year story of the Lake District 24-hour Fell Record' which chronicles the evolution of the round from it's very early days when 'pedestrianism' (endurance walking) was very popular.In 1904 Dr Wakefield first formalised criteria that a peak had to be over 2000ft in height. Later criteria were added - the current rules being that you must complete all the peaks of the existing round, and that any additional peaks must involve at least 250ft of re-ascent and be at least 0.25mi from existing peaks. Bob Graham's 24-hour Fell Record of 42 peaks in 1932 clearly became its own entity, but the Fell Record went on, increasing by a significany margin with Joss Naylor in the 1970s to 72 peaks. It wasn't until 1988 that Mark McDermott managed to improve this to 76 peaks, then Mark Hartell with 77 peaks in 1997 and Kim Collison with 78 peaks in 2020. This stood until 2023 and Andy's record time which was 22 mins quicker than Kim's for the 78 peaks.Andy is a running coach who spends his time between Durham and Fort William. He holds the Steve Parr Round record (116 miles, 33hrs 46mins), has the 4th fastest Bob Graham Round time (13h 35m, 2025), won the Lakeland 100 in 2023 and the UTMR Mattertal 50km in 2024.Andy can be found at: www.andyberrycoaching.org/England's Everest by Peter McDonald can be found at: www.bookscumbria.com/product/uk-books/sport-uk-books/englands-everest/See this podcast by The Rest Is History for more about Pedestrianism: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-rest-is-history/id1537788786?i=1000721953819If you want to buy me a cuppa to help support the podcast, thank you and please do at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ko-fi.com/finlaywild⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Who's to blame for The Black Hole of Calcutta?This week, The Alarmist (Rebecca Delgado Smith) discusses the infamous Black Hole of Calcutta and the controversy that followed. Set in Fort William owned by the British East India Company circa 1756, an atrocity occurred that would go on to shape history as we know it. Speculations about the event live on, but the fallout is undeniable. Was a lack of humanity to blame? Is poor communication the culprit? Or was this another symptom of rampant colonialism? Fact Checker Chris Smith and Producer Clayton Early join the conversation. Join our Patreon!Tell us who you think is to blame at http://thealarmistpodcast.comEmail us at thealarmistpodcast@gmail.comFollow us on Instagram @thealarmistpodcastSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/alarmist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2. The Seizure of Black Powder: Lexington, Concord, and the First Shots of the Revolution Author: Patrick O'Donnell Book Title: The Indispensables: The Diverse Soldier Mariners Who Shaped the Country, Formed the Navy, and Rowed Washington across the Delaware Black powder was the most crucial resource for the nascent revolution, as it did not exist in the colonies, making guns useless without it. The British actively sought to seize all gunpowder in New England. The Marbleheaders, utilizing their established supply lines, brought in the bulk of the powder and arms the British were trying to confiscate. A key early action occurred on December 14, 1774, during the raid on Fort William and Mary, which was a main powder source for the British. Led by John Sullivan and John Langdon, the raiders—tipped off by Marblehead intelligence—stormed the fort and seized the powder and cannon; the few shots fired here are considered the "first shots" of the American Revolution. Following this, in April 1775, the British marched toward Lexington and Concord. Marblehead leaders, including Elbridge Gerry, were meeting nearby and fled into a cornfield, fearing arrest. The returning British column faced thousands of angry militiamen, including the Marbleheaders, who fought them during their retreat along the Battle Road. This included a deadly stand at Menotomy (Arlington), where many patriots were slaughtered.

Rob Fairley talks to me about his journey as an artist - starting at an early age with a school visit to St Kilda, through Edinburgh College of Art and onwards to Mallaig and then Shona Beag island where he spent 5 years as its sole occupant in his early 20s. There he created what would now be described as land art, for example altering the movement of deer in certain ways to create patterns, or 'tuning' a causeway by moving rocks to change the pitch. He used climbing mainly as a means of exploration, and undertook several mountaineering expeditions to the Himalaya with Mal Duff - sketching people in busy Kathmandu and creating vivid mountain watercolours.Rob recounts the origins of Room 13, a child-led art project starting in 1994 at Caol Primary School, Fort William. The Room 13 approach spread internationally and allowed young people a creative freedom not found in mainsteam school art education. The 'outsider art' produced - freed from classroom or teacher influence - often explored adolescent themes neglected at school. Rob was involved with several Room 13 trips to Nepal including a road trip with Room 13's young people from Delhi to Mumbai to establish a school for Mumbai's street children.I misnamed Robert Macfarlane's book 'Underland' when we are discussing the Chauvet cave paintings and 'thin places'. Rob's website is at robfairley.co.ukIf you want to buy me a cuppa to help support the podcast, thank you and please do at: ⁠https://ko-fi.com/finlaywild

For OTL this week, we have Brandon Forsyth, a book buyer at Indigo. This episode of On The Line is brought to you by Airbnb. It's no secret that Canada is in a housing crisis. Some think that short-term rentals such as Airbnbs are the problem. But the closer you look, the clearer it gets. Attempts to lower rents by regulating short-term rentals have failed in cities like New York City – which is experiencing record high rents a year after doing so. Canada doesn't need more regulation; it needs more supply. And Airbnbs that could be converted into long-term homes account for only 0.6% of Canada's housing stock. Learn more at Airbnb.ca/closerlook.In this wide-ranging conversation Jen Gerson and Forsyth chat about his recommendations for fiction and non-fiction summer reads. This episode is also brought to you by the Métis Nation of Ontario. It's Sault Ste. Marie in the 1850s. The Upper Great Lakes and rivers of northern Ontario are bustling during the summers with the sound of paddles. Sault Ste. Marie, Fort William, Fort Frances. For Métis voyageurs, these were the highways of a growing trade. Summer was for moving canoes packed with salted fish and furs. Stops were made at supply depots run by Métis families. And a thriving economy was built on a network of Métis communities stretching across the Upper Great Lakes westward. These Métis routes became the arteries of Canada's first economy. This July, while Canadians enjoy their vacations, remember the Métis who spent summers building Canada's first economy. To learn more, visit OntarioMetisFacts.comThen they get spicy, talking about deeper trends driving book sales in the culture. Gerson offers a host of opinions on what genres of books are good and bad, as well as whether or not Millennials have a writing voice. Strong arguments are offered on whether adults should be reading childrens' books. Forsyth's book recommendations: FICTIONSLOW HORSES by Mick HerronMURDERBOT by Martha Wells KATABASIS by R.F. Kuang ONE GOLDEN SUMMER by Carley Fortune SAY YOU'LL REMEMBER ME by Abby Jimenez NON-FICTIONTHE CRISIS OF CANADIAN DEMOCRACY, Andrew Coyne MORAL AMBITION by Rutger Bregman EMPIRE OF AI by Karen Hao CHILDREN LIKE US by Brittany Penner KING OF KINGS by Scott Anderson

One of the most severely and regularly gridlocked regional bottlenecks in Scotland sits slap bang on the top of Fort William, and in doing so it is throttling the life out of the town and surrounding communities. Plans to fix this are now in development, so in readiness for looking at those, we consider what options are available, and work out how to save the Highlands' biggest town in the process. Support #Railnatter at https://patreon.com/garethdennis. Merch at https://merch.railnatter.uk. Join in the discussion at https://discord.railnatter.uk. You can also buy my book #HowTheRailwaysWillFixTheFuture: https://bit.ly/HowTheRailways

When the East India Company surrendered Fort William (in modern-day Kolkata) to the Nawab of Bengal on 20th June, 1756, dozens of British captives were imprisoned in a cell measuring only 18ft long and 14ft wide, with just two tiny windows - ‘the Black Hole of Calcutta'. Among the prisoners was John Zephaniah Holwell, whose pamphlet describing the terrors of the airless room caused a sensation back in Britain and became a cause célèbre in the idealization of imperialism in India. Holwell claimed 123 men lost their lives in the cell, although it is now thought the number of deaths was exaggerated. In this episode, Arion, Rebecca and Olly uncover Holwell's mixed feelings around colonialism; consider how ‘the black hole of Calcutta' became an enduring term of phrase; and reveal what connected Kolkata with Olly's home village in Hertfordshire… Further Reading: • ‘A Genuine Narrative of the Deplorable Deaths of the English Gentlemen, and Others, who Were Suffocated in the Black-Hole in Fort-William, at Calcutta, in the Kingdom of Bengal, in the Night Succeeding the 20th Day of June, 1756, in a Letter to a Friend - By John Zephaniah Holwell' (A. Millar, 1758): https://www.google.co.uk/books/edition/A_Genuine_Narrative_of_the_Deplorable_De/xGg0Cg9WVNcC?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=Holwell+%2B+Calcutta&printsec=frontcover • ‘The Black Hole of Calcutta – Kolkata, India' (Atlas Obscura): https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-black-hole-of-calcutta • ‘The Story of The Black Hole Of Calcutta - Britain's Secret Homes' (ITV Daytime, 2016): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbjFxITtXwU This episode first aired in 2021 Love the show? Support us!  Join 

Roger Vieira is in studio to share his incredible story! In this episode of The Ride Companion, Roger joins us in the studio to talk about his journey from growing up in Brazil to chasing the World Cup Downhill dream as a full on privateer. He opens up about the financial realities of racing, why his first ever World Cup at Fort William lead him to take a year off, and whether it's even possible to compete as a privateer after the recent changes. We also dive into Roger's new found success on the Red Bull Cerro Abajo circuit, what it takes to go fast on an urban race course, his bike setup secrets, what the future looks like for the wildest series in MTB, Red Bull Hardline and much more...  If you weren't a Roger Vieira fan before watching this podcast then we're sure you will be by the end! Don't forget https://www.theracecompanion.com is now live! You can sign up and play for FREE to win epic prizes, create leagues with your mates and take your downhill fandom to the next level! BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors: - HipLok: Get 20% off the entire store with code THERIDECOMPANION20 at hiplok.com/the-ride-companion (Offer excludes DX1000 D lock and AX1000, A1000 anchors) - Everybody needs a WORX Hydroshot and some power tools, right? Get 15% off all WORX tools at uk.worx.com when you use code THERIDECOMPANION - Do you get hangry? Want an easy way to tick your daily nutritional needs? Support the show and get 15% OFF HUEL products with code 'RIDE' at huel.com/ Unlock a healthier, easier way to eat with Huel—nutritionally complete meals in minutes, so you can focus on what really matters...biking. Support our long term partners: - Marin Bikes: marinbikes.com/gb - Focus Bikes: focus-bikes.com - HUEL: Get 15% OFF with code 'RIDE' at huel.com/ - Hiplok: https://hiplok.com/the-ride-companion  - Nissan Vans: nissan.co.uk/vehicles/new-vehicles/primastar.html - Play Fantasy Downhill at The Race Companion: theracecompanion.com instagram.com/theracecompanion - Get 10% off Troy Lee Designs with code 'theridecompanion' at saddleback.avln.me/c/OzduCWvjtcOr - Athletic Greens: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs at athleticgreens.com/RIDECOMPANION - Compex: Get 20% off with code ‘THERIDECOMPANION' at compex.com/uk/ - Worx: Get 15% off with code ‘THERIDECOMPANION' at worx.com - LAKA: Get 30 days of FREE insurance with code ‘RIDECOMPANION30' at laka.co - HKT Products: Use code ‘PODCAST' for 10% off the entire site. Follow Olly Wilkins Instagram @odub_23 YouTube @owilkins23 The Ride Companion Instagram @theridecompanion YouTube @TheRideCompanion YouTube clips and BTS channel @moreridecompanion Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more theridecompanion.co.uk

Because coal is bulky, tricky, dusty and unsightly stuff, storing it between its arrival in Hong Kong and it getting used was always a problem. That's because as demand rose, so the amount of coal needed to be kept on hand increased accordingly: from around 3,000 tonnes in 1844 to more like 10,000 tons twenty years later and, forty years after that, 100,000 tons. That's a lot of real estate. Ad hoc solutions ruled the roost over the first twenty or so years – including that of the P&O Company that stored its coal afloat in a hulk (ship without masts or sailed), the ex-East Indiaman, the Fort William from the late 1840s until the late 1870s. Interestingly, that doesn't seem to have been the most usual solution. The Fort William is the only coal hulk ever mentioned. Most coal was stored on land, which provoked an expected NIMBY reaction. Efforts were always being made to get it out of sight…well, out of the gweilos' sight. The happy solution turned up in 1860 after the 2nd Opium War. The Kowloon Peninsula was empty of upmarket gweilos and out of their sight. Perfect. For the next eighty years it became the site of most of the largest coalyards both for commercial use and for the Royal Navy. Hong Kong Island didn't escape entirely, but the coalyards got shoved out to the edge, first in Wan Chai and then in the North Point/Taikoo area. After WW2 demand for coal for fuel disappeared in favour of oil, so coalyards dwindled to two large government owned and operated yards at Lai Chi Kok and the Taikoo end of North Point. That's until the 1970s oil shock, when suddenly Hong Kong's electricity generating stations decided coal was cheaper. That's how come in the last 50 years (c.1975-2025) Hong Kong has imported SEVEN TIMES more coal than it imported in its first century during the heyday of the steam ship. Happily for us all, the two power companies store what is at any one time about 250,000 tons of the stuff way out of sight on the west coast of Lamma Island and at Castle Peak beyond Tuen Mun.

Tahnée Seagrave is on the podcast! In this episode of The Ride Companion, Tahnée Seagrave reflects on the highs and lows of her career, from five years of injuries and nearly stepping away from racing to rediscovering her love for the sport. She opens up about the mental challenges of recovery, the impact of concussions and burnout, and how self-talk and mindset shifts helped her return to the top. We also discuss some of the big talking points in downhill racing, including the Speedsuit that debuted in Fort William, the fairness of protected rider status, and whether the new UCI points system is helping women's MTB. Tahnée also talks about FMD becoming a factory team, the state of women's downhill, whether junior riders are getting enough time to develop and much more... Follow Tahnée Seagrave on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tahneeseagrave/ BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors: - Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at invisiframe.co.uk - Everybody needs a WORX Hydroshot and some power tools, right? Get 15% off all WORX tools at https://uk.worx.com when you use code THERIDECOMPANION - Hiplok Exclusive TRC Offer! Get a FREE Jaw+ compact bike rack & Z Lok security tie with any 1000 Series HipLok purchase (excl. BR1000 bracket). Simply use code THERIDECOMPANION at checkout at https://hiplok.com/the-ride-companion Support our long term partners: - Marin Bikes: marinbikes.com/gb - Focus Bikes: focus-bikes.com - HUEL: Get 15% OFF with code 'RIDE' at huel.com/ - Hiplok: https://hiplok.com/the-ride-companion  - Nissan Vans: nissan.co.uk/vehicles/new-vehicles/primastar.html - Play Fantasy Downhill at The Race Companion: theracecompanion.com instagram.com/theracecompanion - Get 10% off Troy Lee Designs with code 'theridecompanion' at saddleback.avln.me/c/OzduCWvjtcOr - Athletic Greens: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs at athleticgreens.com/RIDECOMPANION - Compex: Get 20% off with code ‘THERIDECOMPANION' at compex.com/uk/ - Worx: Get 15% off with code ‘THERIDECOMPANION' at worx.com - LAKA: Get 30 days of FREE insurance with code ‘RIDECOMPANION30' at laka.co - HKT Products: Use code ‘PODCAST' for 10% off the entire site. Follow Olly Wilkins Instagram @odub_23 YouTube @owilkins23 The Ride Companion Instagram @theridecompanion YouTube @TheRideCompanion YouTube clips and BTS channel @moreridecompanion Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more theridecompanion.co.uk

Keri Wallace is an amazing ultra-runner who has set several Fastest Known Times on some tough trails. Recently, she made headlines by achieving a new female solo, unsupported winter FKT on the West Highland Way! Keri took on the 154 km trail from Milngavie to Fort William and finished in an incredible 28 hours and 19 minutes. It's truly inspiring, especially since she faced 17 hours of darkness and freezing temperatures.Beyond her impressive running feats, Keri is passionate about supporting women in ultra-running. She's the co-founder of Girls on Hills, a fantastic organization that encourages more women to get involved in mountain and trail running. Keri's work is making a big difference in the running community!Pic Credit - B Chalmershttps://teaandtrails.com/https://www.patreon.com/teaandtrailshttps://www.youtube.com/@teaandtrailshttps://www.teaandtrailsultra.com/DonationsFAO Conor Mathieson.Recovery Runners.Kinmel Bay Church,83 St Asaph Avenue.Kinmel Bay,Rhyl.LL18 5EY.XMILES UK - https://xmiles.co.uk/SHOKZ - Use the Code TEA10 to receive £10 off your order.https://uk.shokz.com?sca_ref=7394994.MfsDQZBAeLQihiPrecision Fuel & Hydration - https://visit.pfandh.com/3GKxHjUPrecision Fuel & Hydration Planner - https://visit.pfandh.com/3RuP25zHarrier Trail Running - https://harrierrunfree.co.uk/Fenixlight Limited - https://www.fenixlight.co.uk/Protein Rebel - https://proteinrebel.com/Beta Run - https://www.betaoutdoorsports.com/The information in our content is provided as an information resource and is not to be used or relied on for diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not create a patient-physician/doctor relationship and should not be used as a substitute.Content may contain affiliate links which can help support and grow this channel at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your continued support.Brew with the Coaches - CLICK HEREKeeping Dry & Staying Warm - https://amzn.to/42JCexqFix Your Feet - https://amzn.to/3FE4nf0Running Challenges by Keri Wallace - https://amzn.to/3KGdU7eROAR - https://amzn.to/3WU7xB2NEXT LEVEL - https://amzn.to/3Hu15LrUltra Trails - https://www.ultratrails.co.uk/Greener Miles - https://greenermilesrunning.co.uk/Hannah Walsh - https://www.hannahwalsh.co.uk/Punk Panther - https://www.punkpanther.co.uk/Pen Llyn Ultra - https://penllyn.niftyentries.com/Survivor Trailchallenge.com - https://survivortrailchallenge.com/Centurion Running - https://centurionrunning.com/

Today, we're joined by Anna Newkirk, a rider who had a standout 2024 season that put her on the radar of multiple teams. Ultimately, she chose to join Frameworks Racing for 2025. Anna's journey started with racing IXS Cups, where she honed her skills and went head-to-head with Vali Höll—a rivalry that followed them into the World Cup circuit. In 2024, Anna delivered some incredible results, including a 3rd place qualifying at Fort William and a 2nd place finish in Leogang. Now, with her move to Frameworks Racing, we're diving into what's next for this rising star. So, it's time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Anna Newkirk. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Anna on Instagram @annanewkirk_. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I'll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I've been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don't forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it's available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Logan Mulally

Our audio recording from our American Revolution Roundtable for December 2024. We talk about the anti-tea hysteria that swept America following the Boston Tea Party. We also discuss the New Hampshire Militia raid on Fort William and Mary in December of 1774. To receive notices of future Roundtable events, which are held on Zoom, please be sure to add your email address to my mailing list using the link below: https://mailchi.mp/d3445a9cd244/american-revolution-podcast-by-michael-troy  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A recent report showed that almost a quarter of all ancient pinewoods are at risk of disappearing altogether. Earlier this week, Mark attended Scotland's Pinewood Conference in Fort William to find out what's being done to preserve these woodlandsIt's prime cider making time. Rachel visits Digby Lamotte at his cider making business in Perth to follow the process of producing this increasingly popular drinkIn the late 1700s, Dr James Mounsey, a physician, is said to have smuggled out several pounds of rhubarb seeds - worth more than gold - out of Russia to his home of Edinburgh, where he was soon honoured with the Freedom of the City. Author Barclay Price has written about James Mounsey and others in his new book Honoured by EdinburghThe North Coast 500,a hugely popular tourist route in the North of Scotland, attracts thousands of visitors each year. David Richardson of the NC 500 joins the programme to talk about the new NC500 pledge - an initiative created to encourage visitors to experience the route responsibly and respectfullyKiri Stone is the person behind woodswoman workshops in Fife. Rachel went along to one of the outdoors workshopsTracey Howe has just embarked on 5000 mile walk round the UK coastline. Following the death of her wife of nearly 40 years, Tracey found herself depressed and unable to leave the house but owning a dog forced her to get outside. Linda Sinclair met Tracey on one her final training walks

Did you believe the hype? Coming into the 2024 World Cup season, Asa Vermette was an obvious favorite in the Junior Men's category. He'd been fast domestically for a few years, and with the support of Frameworks and guidance from Neko Mulally and Angel Suarez, he seemed poised to have a successful debut on the international stage. Then, at the first round in Fort William, Asa waxed everyone by 6 seconds. You tack on the fact that he won after sitting on the couch for weeks prior healing a broken hip, and the hype became simple facts. The next generation is always faster than the last, and Asa is leading the latest charge. Fast forward to now, and we've been lucky to watch Asa and Max Alran exchange blows all year. Each has three wins, and Mont Sainte Anne was teeing up to be an epic final round between the two. Unfortunately, Asa's crash in Loudenvielle left him more battered and bruised than initially suspected, putting an end to his first World Cup season. A bittersweet conclusion to an otherwise successful year, we wanted to know how Asa felt about his season—the highs, the lows, the lessons learned, and the goals for 2025. We talked about a whole lot more, so enjoy getting to know more about the calm kid from Durango who's damn fast on a bike.0:00 - Intro1:37 - Why Asa isn't racing MSA4:24 - Injuries collected throughout the season5:19 - The balance of pushing and crashing8:06 - Did he feel the pressure going into the season?12:00 - Key takeaways from his first World Cup season 13:38 - Why keeping racing fun is key14:51 - Asa's pump-up music of choice 15:51 - Advice from Neko and Angel17:05 - How Asa gets up to speed and breaks down tracks21:10 - Favorite country he visited this year 22:50 - Favorite track of the year23:33 - Getting used to riding in the mud25:32 - Injury updates going into the offseason28:05 - How Asa passes the time when he's hurt 29:46 - Favorite Elite racer30:55 - Asa explains his nasty whips31:56 - Doing a flip in a race run??36:17 - Who's got the best whips?38:29 - Things to improve on this offseason40:22 - Training program chit-chat  42:21 - What Asa rides day-to-day42:04 - Asa's perfect riding day43:36 - Freestyle Asa44:52 - Winter riding plans45:48 - 2025 Goals46:49 - 5 Years from now, where will Asa be… 

GoFundme to support Seton Tuning DH TeamPhil Seton, manager of Pole Factory Racing, shares the story of keeping his team alive after Pole Bikes went into administration a week before Fort William. All team budget was pulled and they were left with a decision to race or pack it up. Phil decided to use his personal money to get Onni Rainio and Dan Slack to Fort William and Poland. Onni had a personal best at Fort William and Dan Slack had his best-ever finish making finals and breaking the beam with a 28th in Poland. With the help of a GoFundMe, they're successfully attending Leogang this week and are halfway to earning enough money to race Les Gets. Jack Rice gets the scoop from Phil as race life rolls on!

Today's episode is a little different. If you've listened to the podcast for a while, you'll know that it's very much not about me, but today it is. For a while now, Neko has been telling me that he thinks people would like to know more about me. I guess for some of you, you've heard my voice for years now and I've not shared a whole lot about myself. So I finally caved in and let Neko take control of the questions. We sat down in Fort William and chatted about my background in mountain biking, my previous career in automotive engineering and how I eventually came to start the podcast. Hear about the challenges of making a mountain bike podcast your full time job and where the podcast is going in the future. Hopefully you enjoy finding out a bit more about me and where this whole podcast comes from. So, it's time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Chris Hall. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Downtime on Instagram @downtimepodcast. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners Gorewear If you're seeking the highest quality clothing for cycling in all weather conditions, Gorewear has you covered and right now, Downtime listeners can get a huge 35% off any top and bottom bundle over on gorewear.com by using the code DOWNTIME35 at the checkout. This offer is valid until 31st August 2024 in the UK, EU, and the US. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I'll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I've been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don't forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it's available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Downtime Podcast

What a start to the 2024 World Cup downhill season we've had! Fort William properly kicked things off with a gnarly track and insane racing, followed by a new venue in Poland that produced one of the best tracks and tightest races we've seen in years. Now, after a brief two-week pause, racing resumes this weekend in Leogang, Austria. A classic track that always delivers dramatic racing, there are exciting stories shaping up in each category that will be fun to watch play out over the weekend. Join Vital's own Jason Schroeder, ex-World Cup mechanic John Hall, and podcast co-host and contributing editor Tanner Stephens as they discuss who will contend for the win this weekend in each category, what makes the historic Leogang track so tricky, and highlight some potential dark horses who could mix things up come race day. 0:00 - Intro2:04 - Southwest Downhill Series this weekend 8:43 - Leogang venue & track analysis 13:33 - Is Leogang a bike park track? 17:48 - Why Leogang is so difficult in the wet20:17 - Breaking down the motorway section22:05 - John discusses Aaron Gwin's chainless win at Leogang in 2015  33:11 - A fan trying to sell John Aaron's broken chain for $3,000  38:25 - Weather report39:03 - Injured reserve list for this weekend 44:33 - Fantasy strategy49:10 - Junior Women race predictions57:28 - Junior Men race predictions1:04:15 - Elite Women predictions1:18:30 - Elite Men predictionsPlay Vital Downhill Fantasy - https://www.vitalmtb.com/fantasy More mountain bike news and reviews - https://www.vitalmtb.com

This is the second episode in our series which is supported by Fox, where I'm given access to their suspension guru and race team manager, Jordi Cortes, and each episode we'll be joined by one of Fox's roster of incredible athletes, to find out more about them and dig into their performance at the races and how they've worked alongside Fox to get their suspension singing and to be as dialed as possible on track. This week Jordi and I are joined by Greg Williamson to talk about his experience at Fort William and Poland as he opens his season with two incredible top tens and begins to ride that wave of confidence. So sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Greg Williamson and Jordi Cortes. Supported By Fox This season, alongside Fox's very own Jordi Cortes, they are providing us access to their roster of incredible athletes, to find out more about them and dig into their performance at the races and how they've worked alongside Fox to get their suspension singing and to be as Dialed as possible on track. Head to ridefox.com to checkout their latest range. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I'll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I've been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don't forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it's available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Jack Tennyson

After a rocky (literally) start to the 2024 season in Fort William, a fresh track with a good mix of features and fluctuating speeds greeted racers for the second round in Poland. Speculation surrounding speed suits and electronic lockouts was replaced by the buzz of line choice and rut formation. In the end, it was a battle for thousandths of a second, and who could predict and adapt to the ever-evolving conditions best after some race day rain. The cream is definitely beginning to rise to the top in each category, but holy cow, there are a lot of names fighting for the podium! Our guy Stack-Attack set the pace most of the weekend, but a slippery flat corner put an end to his winning hopes. We break down Dak's headspace during and after the weekend, where the race was won or lost, thoughts on electronic shifting in downhill, the return of shorts in downhill, and chit-chat about how racing unfolded in each category. Enjoy!These awesome brands make The B Practice Podcast possible!Maxxis Tires -  https://www.maxxis.com/us/Industry Nine - https://industrynine.com/Burgtec -  https://burgtec-usa.com/Play Vital Downhill Fantasy - https://www.vitalmtb.com/fantasy  More mountain bike news and reviews - https://www.vitalmtb.com

Welcome to another pre-World Cup discussion as part of Vital MTB Downhill Fantasy! The first race of the season in Fort William, Scotland, kicked things off with a bang! Now, just two weeks later, the excitement continues as we head to a completely new venue for the second round of the UCI World Cup downhill series. Without past results to make predictions, this weekend will offer a clean slate for racing. Who will be able to figure out the new track in a limited time and be the fastest on race day? Will more experienced riders still have an advantage? Or will up-and-coming racers be able to adapt and rise to the occasion? Join Vital's own Jason Schroeder, ex-World Cup mechanic John Hall, and podcast co-host and contributing editor Tanner Stephens as they discuss who's looking fast after Fort William, what to expect from the new track, and who to keep on your radar in Bielsko-Biala, Poland.0:00 Intro & How to Play Fantasy2:00 - John gives insight into how racers and teams approach a new track5:49 - Bielsko-Biala track details and discussion11:00 - Will electronic suspension systems be a thing again this weekend?14:54 - Loic Bruni's setup speculation22:32 - Will experience be an advantage this weekend?24:42 - How teams find the best lines during practice30:28 - Injury updates34:50 - Fantasy notes and insights from Fort Bill44:33 - Junior Women predictions46:48 - Junior Men predictions52:02 - Elite Women predictions57:03 -  Elite Men predictionsFor all the details on how to play Vital's Downhill Fantasy, including what prizes are up for grabs EACH round - https://www.vitalmtb.com/fantasy

The World Cup season has arrived, and with that, we are back with our regularly scheduled post-race banter! Fort William went off with a bang, providing one of the most thrilling and engaging season openers we've seen. Numerous team changes were finally put on display against the clock; the track was dry, fast, and ridiculously rough, and the level of racing in all four categories was tighter and more intense than ever. With plenty of topics to hit, like speed suits, electronic suspension lockouts, and Dakotah's mega-rise bars, it was awesome to have the crew back together to chat about elite downhill racing. Enjoy!These awesome brands make The B Practice Podcast possible!Maxxis Tires -  https://www.maxxis.com/us/Industry Nine - https://industrynine.com/Burgtec -  https://burgtec-usa.com/Play Vital Downhill Fantasy - https://www.vitalmtb.com/fantasy  More mountain bike news and reviews - https://www.vitalmtb.com

Today, we're joined by world champion, world cup overall winner and winner of round one of the 2024 season in Fort William, Vali Höll. From dominating the 2023 World Cup season to making significant off-season changes like moving out of her parents' home and heading back to YT, Vali gives us an exclusive peek into her world. Tune in as we explore what it's like to be the rider to beat, hear about Vali's efforts to secure out-of-industry sponsorships, her exciting new web series, riding the new YT Tues and more. It's clear to see that Vali is not only growing in speed and skill, but also in her comfort with who she is and where she belongs in the sport. So, it's time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Vali Höll. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Vali on Instagram @valihoell and you can watch her brand new web series on her YouTube channel here. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners We Are One Composites If you want to get your hands on the best riding and most robust wheels you'll ever own, then you can do so right now with 20% off all wheelsets for Downtime listeners. Just head over to weareonecomposites.com and use the code 'DowntimeMay20' at the checkout. Magura Magura's fully adjustable HC3 lever, once an aftermarket gem, is now available straight from the factory with MT7 brakes. This means you can fine-tune your braking experience like never before, adjusting braking force on the fly to match the trail conditions perfectly. Exciting news doesn't stop there – for a limited time, you can snag a full set of MT7 HC3 brakes and Storm HC brake discs, front and rear, for just 399 Euro. But hurry, prices may vary in other regions. Head to magura.com now. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I'll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I've been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don't forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it's available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Downtime Podcast

Hear what racers have to say after the first World Cup Downhill mountain bike race of 2024 in Fort William, Scotland.0:00 - Asa Vermette, Junior Men's Winner0:55 - Heather Wilson, Junior Women's Winner3:00 - Dakotah Norton7:52 - Nina Hoffmann10:47 - Tahnee Seagrave13:23 - Kale Cushman15:14 - Greg Williamson17:59 - Myriam Nicole20:25 - Cory Rimmer

What a way to start the season. Fort William didn't disappoint and brought us a brutal track and incredible racing. We also saw some exciting new technology on the race track for the first time. There's a lot to discuss as the covers were finally pulled back on the 2024 World Cup downhill series. So sit back, hit play and listen to your Maxxis Tyres post-race show from Fort William, with Neko Mulally and Olly Morris. Supported By Maxxis Tyres Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options. You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I'll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I've been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don't forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it's available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Pete Scullion

Win Prizes from RockShox, SRAM, Troy Lee Designs, FSA & Maxxis! https://www.vitalmtb.com/fantasyEllie Hulsebosch of The Union is a first-year Junior on the World Cup Downhill circuit. She's been stacking up wins this off-season and is ready to slay Fort William this weekend.#MTB #DH #bike

Alright folks, after that long winter we are finally going world cup racing again and this is your Maxxis tyres pre-race show for the opening round of the downhill world up in Fort William, where I'll be joined by coach to the stars, Chris Kilmurray to get the inside line on the unique demands of Fort William and we'll be talking about who we're excited to watch as the race season gets going. So sit back, hit play and listen to this Fort William World Cup pre-race show with Chris Kilmurray. Supported By Maxxis Tyres Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options. You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I'll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I've been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don't forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it's available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Nathan Hughes

This year, we are bringing you pre-World Cup discussions as part of Vital MTB Downhill Fantasy. Each round we will break down which racers you should keep an eye on going into the weekend, who's gone fast in years past, and try to give you some extra insight to help make the best Fantasy picks. In this episode, join Vital's own Jason Schroeder, ex-World Cup mechanic John Hall, and podcast co-host and contributing editor Tanner Stephens as they discuss off-season team changes, pre-season races, and who to watch at round one in Fort William, Scotland. For all the details on how to play Vital's Downhill Fantasy, including what prizes are up for grabs EACH round - https://www.vitalmtb.com/fantasy:26 - How to Play Vital Fantasy12:00 - Off-Season Team Changes 31:43 - Off-Season Racing Results40:01 - Who's Injured and Out of Round #151:44 - Fort William Track Analysis56:10 - Junior Women Insights and  Predictions1:00:53 - Junior Men Insights and Predictions1:09:02 - Elite Women Insights and Predictions1:14:47 - Elite Men Insights and Predictions

This podcast hit paid subscribers' inboxes on April 15. It dropped for free subscribers on April 22. To receive future pods as soon as they're live, and to support independent ski journalism, please consider an upgrade to a paid subscription. You can also subscribe to the free tier below:WhoTom Day, President and General Manager of Gunstock, New HampshireRecorded onMarch 14, 2024About GunstockClick here for a mountain stats overviewOwned by: Belknap County, New HampshireLocated in: Gilford, New HampshireYear founded: 1937Pass affiliations: Unlimited access on New Hampshire College Pass (with Cannon, Cranmore, and Waterville Valley)Closest neighboring ski areas: Abenaki (:34), Red Hill Ski Club (:35), Veterans Memorial (:43), Tenney (:52), Campton (:52), Ragged (:54), Proctor (:56), Powderhouse Hill (:58), McIntyre (1:00)Base elevation: 904 feetSummit elevation: 2,244 feetVertical drop: 1,340 feetSkiable Acres: 227 Average annual snowfall: 120 inchesTrail count: 49 (2% double black, 31% black, 52% blue, 15% green)Lift count: 8 (1 high-speed quad, 2 fixed-grip quads, 2 triples, 3 carpets - view Lift Blog's inventory of Gunstock's lift fleet)Why I interviewed himIn the roughly four-and-a-half years since I launched The Storm, I've written a lot more about some ski areas than others. I won't claim that there's no personal bias involved, because there are certain ski areas that, due to reputation, convenience, geography, or personal nostalgia, I'm drawn to. But Gunstock is not one of those ski areas. I was only vaguely aware of its existence when I launched this whole project. I'd been drawn, all of my East Coast life, to the larger ski areas in the state's north and next door in Vermont and Maine. Gunstock, awkwardly located from my New York City base, was one of those places that maybe I'd get to someday, even if I wasn't trying too hard to actually make that happen.And yet, I've written more about Gunstock than just about any ski area in the country. That's because, despite my affinity for certain ski areas, I try to follow the news around. And wow has there been news at this mid-sized New Hampshire bump. Nobody knew, going into the summer of 2022, that Gunstock would become the most talked-about ski area in America, until the lid blew off Mount Winnipesaukee in July of that year, when a shallow and ill-planned insurrection failed spectacularly at drawing the ski area into our idiotic and exhausting political wars.If you don't know what I'm talking about, you can read more on the whole surreal episode in the Podcast Notes section below, or just listen to the podcast. But because of that weird summer, and because of an aspirational masterplan launched in 2021, I've given Gunstock outsized attention in this newsletter. And in the process, I've quite come to like the place, both as a ski area (where I've now actually skied), and as a community, and it has become, however improbably, a mountain I keep taking The Storm back to.What we talked aboutRetirement; “my theory is that 10 percent of people that come to a ski area can be a little bit of a problem”; Gunstock as a business in 2019 versus Gunstock today; skier visits surge; cash in the bank; the publicly owned ski area that is not publicly subsidized; Gunstock Nice; the last four years at Gunstock sure were an Asskicker, eh?; how the Gunstock Area Commission works and what went sideways in the summer of 2022; All-Summers Disease; preventing a GAC Meltdown repeat; the time bandits keep coming; should Gunstock be leased to a private operator?; qualities that the next general manager of Gunstock will need to run the place successfully; honesty, integrity, and respect; an updated look at the 2021 masterplan and what actually makes sense to build; could Gunstock ever have a hotel or summit lodge?; why a paved parking lot is a big deal in 2024; Maine skiing in the 1960s; 1970s lift lines; reflecting on the changes over 40-plus years of skiing; rear-wheel-drive Buicks as ski commuter car; competing against Epic and Ikon and why independent ski areas will always have a place in the market; will record skier-visit numbers persist?; a surprising stat about season passes; and how a payphone caused mass confusion in Park City.  Why I thought that now was a good time for this interviewOn January 19, Gunstock Marketing Director Bonnie MacPherson (long of Okemo and Bretton Woods), shot me a press release announcing that Day would retire at the conclusion of the 2023-24 ski season.It was a little surprising. Day hadn't been at Gunstock long. He'd arrived just a couple months before the March 2020 Covid shutdowns, almost four years to the day before he announced retirement. He was widely liked and respected on the mountain and in the community, a sentiment reinforced during the attempted Kook Coup of summer 2022, when a pair of fundamentalist nutjobs got flung out of the county via catapult after attempting to seize Gunstock from Day and his team.But Gunstock was a bit of a passion project for Day, a skiing semi-lifer who'd spent three decades at Waterville Valley before fiddling with high-end odd-jobs of the consultancy and project-management sort for 10 years. In four years, he transformed county-owned Gunstock from a seasonal business that tapped bridge loans to survive each summer into a profitable year-round entertainment center with millions in the bank. And he did it all despite Covid, despite the arrival of vending-machine Epic and Ikon passes, despite a couple of imbeciles who'd never worked at a ski area thinking they could do a better job running a ski area than the person they paid $175,000 per year to run the ski area.  I still don't really get it. How it all worked out. How Gunstock has gotten better as everything about running a ski area has gotten harder and more expensive and more competitive. There's nothing really special about the place statistically or terrain-wise. It's not super snowy or extra tall or especially big. It has exactly one high-speed lift, a really nice lodge, and Awe Dag views of Lake Winnipesaukee. It's nice but not exceptional, just another good mid-sized ski area in a state full of good mid-sized ski areas.  And yet, Gunstock thrives. Day, like most ski area general managers, is allergic to credit, but I have to think he had a lot to do with the mountain's late resilience. He's an interesting guy, thoughtful and worldly and adventurous. Talking to him, I always get the sense that this is a person who's comfortable with who he is, content with his life, a hardcore skier whose interests extend far beyond it. He's colorful but also plainspoken, an optimist and a pragmatist, a bit of back-office executive and good ole' boy wrencher melded into your archetype of a ski area manager. Someone who, disposition baked by experience, is perfectly suited to the absurd task of operating a ski area in New Hampshire. It's too bad he's leaving, but I guess eventually we all do. The least I could do was get his story one more time before he bounced.Why you should ski GunstockSkiing Knife Fight, New Hampshire Edition, looks like this:That's 30 ski areas, the fifth-most of any state, in the fifth-smallest state in America. And oh by the way you're also right next door to all of this:And Vermont is barely bigger than New Hampshire. Together, the two states are approximately one-fifth the size of Colorado. “Fierce” as the kids (probably don't) say.So, what makes you choose Gunstock as your snowsportskiing destination when you have 56 other choices in a two-state region, plus another half-dozen large ski areas just east in Maine? Especially when you probably own an Indy, Epic, or Ikon pass, which, combined, deliver access to 28 upper New England ski areas, including most of the best ones?Maybe that's exactly why. We've been collectively enchanted by access, obsessed with driving down per-visit cost to beat inflated day-ticket prices that we simultaneously find absurd and delight in outsmarting. But boot up at any New England ski area with chairlifts, and you're going to find a capable operation. No one survived this long in this dogfight without crafting an experience worth skiing.It's telling that Gunstock has only gotten busier since the Epic and Ikon passes smashed into New England a half dozen years ago. There's something there, an extra thing worth pursuing. You don't have to give up your SuperUltimoWinterSki Pass to make Gunstock part of your winter, but maybe work it in there anyway?Podcast NotesOn Gunstock's masterplanGunstock's ambitious masterplan, rolled out in 2021, would have blown the ski area out on all sides, added a bunch of new lifts, and plopped a hotel and summit lodge on the property:Most of it seems improbable now, as Day details in the podcast.On the GAC conflictSomeone could write a book on the Gunstock Shenanigans of 2022. The best I can give you is a series of article I published as the whole ridiculous saga was unfolding:* Band of Nitwits Highjacks Gunstock, Ski Area's Future Uncertain - July 24, 2022* Walkouts, Resignations, Wild Accusations: A Timeline of Gunstock's Implosion - July 31, 2022* Gunstock GM Tom Day & Team Return, Commissioner Ousted – 3 Ways to Protect the Mountain's Future - Aug. 8, 2022If nothing else, just watch this remarkable video of Day and his senior staff resigning en masse:On the Caledonian Canal that “splits Scotland in half”I'd never heard of the Caledonian Canal, but Day mentions sailing it and that it “splits Scotland in half.” That's the sort of thing I go nuts for, so I looked it up. Per Wikipedia:The Caledonian Canal connects the Scottish east coast at Inverness with the west coast at Corpach near Fort William in Scotland. The canal was constructed in the early nineteenth century by Scottish engineer Thomas Telford.The canal runs some 60 miles (100 kilometres) from northeast to southwest and reaches 106 feet (32 metres) above sea level.[2] Only one third of the entire length is man-made, the rest being formed by Loch Dochfour, Loch Ness, Loch Oich, and Loch Lochy.[3] These lochs are located in the Great Glen, on a geological fault in the Earth's crust. There are 29 locks (including eight at Neptune's Staircase, Banavie), four aqueducts and 10 bridges in the course of the canal.Here's its general location:More detail:On Day's first appearance on the podcastThis was Day's second appearance on the podcast. The first was way back in episode 34, recorded in January 2021:On Hurricane Mountain, MaineDay mentions skiing a long-gone ropetow bump named Hurricane Mountain, Maine as a child. While I couldn't find any trailmaps, New England Lost Ski Areas Project houses a nice history from the founder's daughter:I am Charlene Manchester now Barton. My Dad started Hurricane Ski Slope with Al Ervin. I was in the second grade, I remember, when I used to go skiing there with him. He and Al did almost everything--cranked the rope tow motor up to get it going, directed traffic, and were the ski patrol. As was noted in your report, accommodations were across road at the Norton farm where we could go to use the rest room or get a cup of hot chocolate and a hamburger. Summers I would go with him and Al to the hill and play while they cleared brush and tried to improve the hill, even opened one small trail to the right of the main slope. I was in the 5th grade when I tore a ligament in my knee skiing there. Naturally, the ski patrol quickly appeared and my Dad carried me down the slope in his arms. I was in contact with Glenn Parkinson  who came to interview my mother , who at 96 is a very good source of information although actually, she was not much of a skier. The time I am referring to must have been around 1945 because I clearly recall discussing skiing with my second grade teacher Miss Booth, who skied at Hurricane. This was at DW Lunt School in Falmouth where I grew up. I was in the 5th grade when I hurt my leg.My Dad, Charles Manchester , was one of the first skiers in the State, beginning on barrel staves in North Gorham where he grew up. He was a racer and skied the White Mountains . We have a picture of him at Tuckerman's when not many souls ventured up there to ski in the spring. As I understand it, the shortage of gas during WWII was a motivator as he had a passion for the sport, but no gas to get to the mountains in N.H. Two of his best ski buddies were Al Ervin, who started Hurricane with him, and Homer Haywood, who was in the ski troopers during WWII, I think. Another ski pal was Chase Thompson. These guys worked to ski--hiking up Cranmore when the lifts were closed due to the gas shortage caused by WWII. It finally got to be too much for my Dad to run Hurricane, as he was spending more time directing traffic for parking than skiing, which after all was why he and Al started the project.I think my Dad and his ski buddies should be remembered for their love of the sport and their willingness to do whatever it took to ski. Also, they were perfect gentlemen, wonderful manners on the slope, graceful and handsomely dressed, often in neckties. Those were the good old days!The ski area closed around 1973, according to NELSAP, in response to rising insurance rates.On old-school Sunday RiverI've documented the incredible evolution of Sunday River from anthill to Vesuvius many times. But here, to distill the drama of the transformation, is the now-titanic ski area's 1961 trailmap:This 60s-era Sunday River was a foundational playground for Day.On the Epic and Ikon New England timelineIt's easy to lose track of the fact that the Epic and Ikon Passes didn't exist in New England until very recently. A brief timeline:* 2017: Vail Resorts buys Stowe, its first New England property, and adds the mountain to the Epic Pass for the 2017-18 ski season.* 2018: Vail Resorts buys Triple Peaks, owners of Mount Sunapee and Okemo, and adds them to the Epic Pass for the 2018-19 ski season.* 2018: The Ikon Pass debuts with five or seven days at five New England destinations for the 2018-19 ski season: Killington/Pico, Sugarbush, and Boyne-owned Loon, Sunday River, and Sugarloaf. Alterra-owned Stratton is unlimited on the Ikon Pass and offers five days on the Ikon Base Pass.* 2019: Vail buys the 17-mountain Peak Resorts portfolio, which includes four more New England ski areas: Mount Snow in Vermont and Crotched, Wildcat, and Attitash in New Hampshire. All join the Epic Pass for the 2019-20 ski season, bumping the number of New England ski areas on the coalition up to seven.* 2019: Alterra buys Sugarbush. Amps up the mountain's Ikon Pass access to unlimited with blackouts on the Ikon Base and unlimited on the full Ikon for the 2020-21 ski season. Alterra also ramps up Stratton Ikon Base access from five days to unlimited with blackouts for the 2020-21 winter.* 2020: Vail introduces New England-specific Epic Passes. At just $599, the Northeast Value Pass delivers unlimited access to Vail's four New Hampshire mountains, holiday-restricted unlimited access to Mount Snow and Okemo, and 10 non-holiday days at Stowe. Vail also rolls out a midweek version for just $429.* 2021: Vail unexpectedly cuts the price of Epic Passes by 20 percent, reducing the cost of the Northeast Value Pass to just $479 and the midweek version to $359. The Epic Local Pass plummets to $583, and even the full Epic Pass is just $783.All of which is background to our conversation, in which I ask Day a pretty interesting question: how the hell have you grown Gunstock's business amidst this incredibly challenging competitive marketplace?The Storm explores the world of lift-served skiing year-round. Join us.The Storm publishes year-round, and guarantees 100 articles per year. This is article 30/100 in 2024, and number 530 since launching on Oct. 13, 2019. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stormskiing.com/subscribe