Recorded at Shropshire Business Suite, this is an extensive look at what went right/wrong at last year's event and what has been improved for 2026. As well as a deep dive into what people can expect in the 2026 event.

Loopfest 2026 is bigger than ever, incorporating The Quarry for the the very first time. Jimmy breaks down how you can get the most out of Loopfest, especially as there is a brand new app to help you navigate your way through. You can find links to the app on the official Loopfest website - https://loopfest.co.uk/news/

Finally, there is an exclusive discussion about the brand new Loop Venue which is due to open very soon. This venue has so many amazing prospects which it comes to giving local musicians a place to play and grow as artists.

The Shrewsbury Biscuit will be at Loopfest as always and to say Alex is excited is an understatement! Enjoy the episode :)

Intro/Outro music: Talk by Ease the Artist.

Just two weeks after receiving her breast cancer diagnosis, Dawn stepped onto the platform and crushed her weightlifting competition. But that was only the beginning. Through gruelling chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and reconstruction, Dawn turned training into her medicine. Her focus? Getting back to doing what she loved, no matter what stood in her way.

Dawn's story is a testament to the power of determination, strength, and finding your fight when life throws its hardest punches. This conversation is raw, inspiring, and a reminder that sometimes the weights we lift aren't just in the gym.

I'm incredibly grateful to Dawn for sharing her journey so vividly. This is one you won't want to miss.

Intro/Outro music: Talk by Ease the Artist

Timmy wanted to know what it takes to be a Mayor and this episode is designed to let you, the listener know who Alex Wagner is as a person.

Although this episode lightly mentions politics, this is not a political podcast. This is a profiling interview. Regular listeners will know that I always like the find out about the person behind a role.

Many thanks to the staff from The Prince of Wales pub for letting us record at your stunning establishment and of course thanks to Alex Wagner for taking time out of his busy Mayoral schedule to speak to us.

Intro/Outro music: Talk by Ease The Artist

Libby has been on The Shrewsbury Biscuit radar for a long time, not only for running the much-loved Market Cookshop nestled in the UK's favourite indoor market, Shrewsbury Market Hall, but also for her fine work with live music fundraisers over the years.

Alex and Timmy talk to Libby about the fundraiser she took part in on 21st February 2026. When this interview took place, it hadn't happened yet! The fundraiser was for the devastating fire at Perches House that sadly claimed the life of Rose Roberts. There's a community drive to raise donations to restore the 14th century building and remember Rose. Here's a link to the live crowdfunder - https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/qr/7nPra3gl?utm_campaign=sharemodal&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=shortlink

This is a nice, warm chat with one of Shrewsbury's sweethearts. We're sat at a table in one of the town's nicest coffee joints—pull up a chair and join us.

Intro/Outro Music - Talk by Ease the Artist

We also discuss The Myddle Muddle, a well-established run co-organised by team parent Anna. Take part in a 10k, 5k or 1 mile colour run on 19th April 2026 and help raise money for Myddle CE Primary and Nursery School. Learn more and enter at https://myddlemuddle.co.uk/ - all levels welcome.

Thank you to Harry and the team for encouraging our mini-biscuit to be his best self, and to Nichola and Brent Catterson from The Red Barn for this ongoing collaboration between us.

Intro/Outro - Talk by Ease The Artist

With over 400k followers on TikTok, Tat really is one of of Shrewsbury's brightest stars. Incorporating baking, witty humour and a natural ability to draw in the audience Tat is awesome, you guys will love her.

Tat has a new book coming out on the 12th March called Bake your Sweet Time. You can pre order your copy HERE You will want a copy too as this book is stunning. Alex was thumbing through it as he spoke to Tat and it truly is one of the most beautiful books he'd seen.

Tat is incredible and this interview is a lot of fun. If you don't already, give The Caketoonist a follow on TikTok, Instagram or Facebook.

Intro/outro music: Talk by Ease The Artist

There is also an exciting development happening between Rachel and the family of Spirograph inventor Denys Fisher, who passed away in 2002. An investigative search for Spirograph's Grandad's family has turned up some surprising results.

This is a fun, free-flowing chat that has sparked a creative flow that could have a lasting impact on The Biscuit. Watch this space.

Learn more about Spirograph Girl here - https://sites.google.com/view/spirographgirl/

Intro/outro music: Talk by Ease the Artist.

Alex Whiteley is joined by event organiser Nick Trevor and Richard Gough from the museum for a spoiler-free chat all about the event, how it works, what people can expect, and why hosting something of this scale is such a big deal for the museum and the castle.

It’s also a bit of a call to arms for anyone who wants to collaborate, get involved, or help put Shrewsbury Castle and the brilliant Soldiers of Shropshire Museum firmly on the map.

Tickets are selling fast:

https://www.soldiersofshropshire.co.uk/traitors-at-the-castle/

P.S. I’ll be there on the night… so be on your guard.

Intro/Outro music: Talk by Ease The Artist

I’m speaking to Lizzie Dibble about the shared wardrobe based inside Oswestry Library. Called With Love From, it’s a beautifully simple concept: borrow occasion-wear using your Shropshire Library card, wear it, then return it once it’s been laundered.

Cool, right? But this idea goes far beyond a fun community project. Lizzie talks about the environmental impact of mass-produced, fast-fashion clothing and how With Love From gives items sitting at the back of wardrobes a brand-new lease of life.

Towards the end of the episode, you’ll also hear from Oswestry Library’s Operations and Development Manager, Siobhan Shaw, who discusses the constant changes and challenges facing a modern, evolving library.

Find out more about With Love From here:

https://www.withlovefrom.org.uk/

Intro/Outro music: Talk by Ease The Artist

This is a story of a girl who went through hell and back, yet here she is sharing it all in it's candid and real form. Alice doesn't hold anything back in her telling of her story in order to let the listener know exactly what she went through.

Alice is a star and this podcast episode was designed only with awareness in mind. If you need help while going through your own journey with similar health problems here are some handy links for you:

The Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/

Lingen Davies: https://www.lingendavies.co.uk/

Shropshire Mental Health Support: https://www.shropshiremhs.com/

Thank you Alice for sharing your story. Hopefully this episode helps raise awareness the way you want it to. We will be back for part II.

Intro/Outro music: Talk by Ease the Artist

That guest is Merryn Rae Peachey, an experienced script supervisor from the world of TV and film. Merryn joins Luke to talk openly about her decision to step away from the industry, and why meaningful change around inclusion still feels a long way off.

With movements like #MeToo bringing promised reforms around safety and fairness, the question remains: are these changes truly being implemented, or are they just industry optics? Luke and Merryn dig into the realities of working on set, the changes they’d like to see, and what true inclusivity should actually look like.

Merryn has since written a powerful parting piece titled Leaving the Dream, reflecting on her exit from the industry, which you can read on her Substack.

Big thanks to Luke for bringing a great conversation, and to Merryn — always nice to make a new friend. That’s what this podcast game is all about.

Intro/outro music: Talk by Ease the Artist

Yes, trees. Alongside big talk of extinction events, fossils and how we piece together Earth’s past, the conversation takes some wonderfully unexpected turns — including spiders the size of cars (slight Alex exaggeration) and how everything around us connects to the bones that will soon be studied in the very room this episode was recorded in.

We may not have time machines, but experts like Tom help bring the prehistoric world to life through decades of research, evidence and theory. And the best bit? When this lab opens, you’ll be able to get hands-on yourself at Exotic Zoo’s Young Palaeontologist Fossil Experience.

This ongoing creative partnership with Exotic Zoo is just getting started, and the possibilities are huge. Let us know what you’d like us to explore next.

A lot can happen in 18 months (or however long it’s been since Hans last joined Alex), and this guy has been up to some pretty incredible adventures. Not only does Hans live an extraordinary life involving jumps out of planes and backflips off bridges dressed as Spider-Man, he also gets invited on some very cool trips.

Most recently, Hans took part in a skydiving expedition over Mount Everest, which in itself is a pretty great story to tell.

It’s always great catching up with Hans — he always has the best stories — and we’ll be doing part three in the new year, hopefully from an airfield.

Note: This episode was edited on a new laptop with a higher processing rate, so my outro music file got corrupted and I was away from the original source. No outro music… but maybe that’s a sign, eh?

John started off filming pranks and sketches with his mates. Little did he know that this would turn into a career for him. Now, John is a videographer with years of experience working in TV, as well as creating custom content for clients from all over.

Please check out John’s website to find out more about him. And if you want to book him for work, even better. Tell him Alex sent you. John’s website is Shootonsight.co.uk

Thank you so much to both John and The Shrewsbury Coffee House for quickly coming to my aid with this episode. I was in a bit of a pickle, and you helped me get this podcast together. You guys rule.

Outro music – What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Armed with his trusty mic and surrounded by 60–70 guests, Alex chats with local business owners about what Reech’s impressive new space means for the community. You’ll hear interviews from the evening’s speeches, and words from director Rob Hughes and agency director Amelia Redge about this big step forward.

Thanks to Reech for the invite—your new home is seriously cool. Can’t wait to see what comes next.

Outro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley.

The CFS team talk about how they're helping young people through their schools programmes. What does it take to introduce fitness and healthy education to young people that are wrapped up in their own insecurities and distracted by the chicken-jockies and 6/7's of the world? (parents will know what this means)

Also, what should one expect to experience during their first introduction to CrossFit Shropshire? Gray has encouraged anyone to take a look at their website here where all the information you need to sign up for an induction course/tour around the gym and learn everything you need to know. If the link doesn't work on the app you're listening from it is www.crossfitshropshire.com give it a Google.

Thank you to the team for assembling so quickly (on a rainy day too) as this was planned within an hour. Spontaneity at it's best!!

Outro music: 'What I Miss' by Josh Lobley

Say, you want to for a 3 day trek over the national 3 peaks, or a trip to Mont Blanc or a day out in the Shropshire Hills with a qualified mountain leader - Janire is the person you need.

This episode focusses on the real organic benefits to being out in nature, how Janire became the mountain badass we see today as well as discovering what adventures lie ahead.

Please give Janire's Instagram a follow here and follow the links to her website to learn more about what she has to offer. Thank you Janire for being such a wicked guest.

Outro music - What I miss by Josh Lobley

Before diving into the interviews gathered at the event, Alex attempts to deliver a… ahem… professional historical breakdown of what makes Soulton Hall so special — not just to Shropshire, but to culture as a whole.

Then we get onto the juicy stuff! Interviews with Soulton Hall custodian Tim Ashton, Shrewsbury Mayor Alex Wagner, and of course, the artist of the evening, Lucy Caddel.

Lucy expertly takes us, the listeners, through the main art piece — a huge 5ft x 12ft three-piece wonder. I recommend checking out the artwork on my Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ — I’ll label it “The main piece” so you can follow along as Lucy talks us through it.

Thank you, Lucy. And thank you, as always, to Tim and Alex — always happy to have a chat down the mic, wherever we are.

Please check out Lucy’s website, and while you’re there, maybe grab yourself some art!

Outro music: “What I Miss” by Josh Lobley

Today we welcome advanced aesthetics practitioner Lorraine Giove to The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast to help guide us through this topic. Lorraine runs Global Aesthetics in Shrewsbury and takes a more holistic, ethical approach to the work she offers her clients.

Confidence is an important commodity, and people find it in all sorts of places. So, let’s talk about the kind of work people may choose to have done to give them that extra spring in their step. Lorraine explains the treatments she provides, how she became a practitioner, and how these changes can affect her clients.

This is a free-flowing, healthy conversation about a topic that many might dismiss, and I really loved chatting with Lorraine—she comes across so well in this episode.

– Alex

So here it is: the long-overdue Lucy Caddel feature episode. Expect some fascinating insights and facts about art, along with some brilliant contributions from my sidekick, Mini-Biscuit. Timmy chimes in with a few wise thoughts and some questions worthy of his title.

On Saturday 8th November, Lucy will be hosting a wonderful exhibition at Soulton Hall in Wem to celebrate The Pomegranate’s Legacy. It’s going to be a lovely get-together, and tickets are completely free—you can book them here.

Thank you, Lucy, and thank you, Timmy. See you on the 8th of November.

Outro Music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Scott explains how he spent the first half of his life as a rockstar, playing in his band Envy of the State. After he downed his guitars, Scott traded screaming audiences for crocodiles and snakes.

There are lots of twists and turns between the beginnings of the Exotic Zoo in Telford and where it is today. During this interview, a bit of a bromance is formed, so while the information is all there in the audio, there are also a few excited discussions about dinosaurs to get through too.

There’s a lot going on at Telford Exotic Zoo, and now that the ice has been well and truly broken, we can pretty much guarantee there’ll be a part two (maybe more!) to this.

Head over to their website to see what this fantastic place stands for and check it out right here.

Intro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

On the show today, we want to find out what made John pick up a brush and start cleaning signs, because in all seriousness, John has built quite the following. From sharing his adventures across the county, John has amassed thousands of followers who have started cleaning signs and rolling up their sleeves in their own communities.

The passion, pride, and work ethic that John has are infectious, and it was a real pleasure to be able to share this with you, the listeners. I’m sure you’ll all find something positive to take away from this episode.

Follow John on his adventures and even share your own sign-cleaning or community-improving achievements by joining his Facebook group, Sign and Graffiti Cleaning Enthusiasts UK.

There’s also an opportunity to get involved with a huge local project that John needs your help with. Join Friends of Sutton Bridge, Shrewsbury to find out more — but this podcast episode explains everything.

Outro Music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

At last year's event, Alex wanted to understand “What is wellbeing?” But this year, after a year in therapy, Alex wanted to discover some important tips to help us navigate a day of positive wellbeing — including the things we should do and the things we shouldn’t do.

Alex also makes a revelation about three-quarters of the way through this series of interviews that sends him down a brass-coated rabbit hole.

“I spoke to so many great people at this year's Wellbeing Festival, and I feel privileged to share these discussions with you. I hope there are listeners who find something positive in this episode that helps them be the best version of themselves.”

“Thank you to Lorraine, Kris, and everyone who spoke to me :)”

OUTRO MUSIC: “What I Miss” by Josh Lobley

We first met at Shrewsbury Food Festival when the guys were 6 weeks into their venture and they were scrambling for stock due to such high demand. Now The Shropshire Scratching Company products are all over Shropshire and have been quoted as "the best scratchings I've ever had" - from some random Shrewsbury Town Supporter.

This episode comes to you from Cromwell's Taphouse on Dogpole, Shrewsbury which is where the idea for the scratchings were conceived. Alex and mini-biscuit Timmy chat to the guys about the careful and purposeful planning of making a product that is tasty, trusted and high in quality. Honestly they're really good if you've never tried one...you must! If you want to stock, try pr learn about the Shropshire Scracthing Company visit their website here

Outro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Going from being part of teams that would help to transform schools to using energy to heal is quite the switch-up that offers a very interesting story. This is perfect for The Biscuit as we love to share interesting life-stories.

It's actually quite a romantic idea isn't it? To swap the hustle, bustle and stresses of work life, to being able to put all of your energy into helping others as well as being kind to yourself. Thank you for sharing your story with me. I hope it offers inspiration to others.

A quick word about the fact that The Shrewsbury Biscuit has been shortlisted for a UK Independent Podcast Award in the Lifestyle Category. I would like to show respect to all of the great nominees. To listen to a dedicated Independent Podcast Awards playlist, that Apple Podcasts have kindly created click HERE Best of luck to all nominees.

OUTRO MUSIC: Josh Lobley - What I Miss

I call this guy the Batman of Shrewsbury as you used to find this scamp scurrying across Shrewsbury's rooftops. Always for a good cause though, the document this town in a most fabulous way.

Chris is a storyteller like me, except he does his thing while exploring abandoned buildings and telling the historical significance to them . I sit in a comfy studio, coffee shop or on this occasion, my couch.

Chris is here to talk about his book 'Rooftops pf Shrewsbury' and he does, but we get into some really great chat too about his blog shrewsbury from where you are not which you should absolutely visit, read, laugh along to, learn and enjoy.

Also buy a copy of his book Rooftops of Shrewsbury. link is here

Thanks Chris, thank you to my amazing supporters too. I took some time and out and it was you all who brought me back. Hope you are all well.

The film tells the real story of Tristan’s cousin, Gary Matthews—a talented artist who tragically died of Covid after falling deep into anti-Covid conspiracy circles.

Gary was a huge influence on Tristan growing up. As the pandemic progressed, Tristan watched in frustration as Gary’s social media posts became increasingly extreme. After Gary’s death, the story went public—and social media did what it does, fuelling a storm of rumours and misinformation that only deepened the pain for Gary’s grieving loved ones.

Determined to set the record straight, Tristan spent months filming this documentary—speaking to friends, family, and even the conspiracy theorists Gary had aligned with. What About Gary? isn’t just about one man’s tragic end; it’s a moving portrait of Gary as a person, artist, cousin, and friend—and a reminder of the human stories behind the headlines.

Follow the journey:

Instagram: @whataboutgary_doc

Website: whataboutgary.co.uk

Huge thanks to Tristan, Vick’s, and the brilliant staff at The Shrewsbury Coffee House for this one.

Outro music: "What I Miss" by Josh Lobley

Join Alex as he attempts to cover the day in as much entirety as he can. Speaking to the talented stable of entertainers from Moose Records including Macy'O herself.

We can't come to an Open Day and not speak to some players too right? We speak to Taylor Perry, Mal Benning, Aristote Nsiala, George Lloyd, Ricardo Dinanga and new signing Will Boyle.

This episode also includes interviews from 3 scholars of Shrewsbury Town that have come up through the ranks and are now starting the show their true potential. We also focus on the Female Focus support group too who are working hard to encourage a welcoming approach for women attending matches both home and away.

Finally, we cannot do this and not speak to Shrewsbury Town CEO Liam Dooley who, accompanied by Nathan sits with Alex to discuss what running a club like Shrewsbury means both personally and professionally.

Like everything that we do at The Biscuit, this is an organically presented chat with members of a club that has brought so much to our family. This was a privilege in itself. But it could not have happened without the help of Roger Groves, Pauline Newton, Liam Dooley and everyone who spoke to us on the day. So thank you all.

Outro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Tune in as Alex takes his mic for a walk around the festival for the 2 days. Focussing mainly on chefs, food and businesses Alex manages to collect stunning interviews with the likes of Stuart Collins: Docket Restaurant, Christiaan De Vries: Great British Bake Off, Adam Purnell: Embers and The Caketoonist: Tat Effby plus many, many more.

The Food Festival in Shrewsbury offers so much but one of the things we love so much about the event is that so many grass routes companies come together in one place to sell their wares. One-such was The Shropshire Scratching Company who, 6 weeks into their birth got absolutely ravaged by customers, selling out all of their stock. A great success story for these guys and the festival.

It is always a joy to a part of this festival and words cannot describe the gratitude that us at The Shrewsbury Biscuit have for the whole team at Shropshire Festivals for always including us. Much love guys and here's to the next one!

Outro Music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

But before we dive into the festival, we get to know more about Sian herself. In an open and honest conversation around mental health, Sian shares her personal journey — both physical and emotional — and how it led her to where she is today.

In the midst of the pressures of life in the mid-2020s, it’s refreshing to discover spaces where you can drop your guard, unwind, and find inspiration for positive change. That’s exactly what Happier Festival aims to offer: a day for guests to connect with others, try something new, treat themselves, and simply enjoy a fun, uplifting experience.

All the details and tickets can be found on the Dwty Life website — but to make things easier, here’s the direct link:

https://www.dwtylife.com/happierfest

Wishing all the best to Sian and the team — Happier Festival sounds like a winner!

Outro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

In this episode, Alex speaks with Cally about her fascinating journey from the world of corporate TV, where she worked with major names like MTV and Comedy Central, to the bold mid-life leap she made into stand-up comedy.

Now an accomplished comedian, Cally is touring a hugely popular show, hosts the sharp and hilarious podcast Namaste Motherfckers*, and has a book of the same name on the way. The podcast features an impressive lineup of guests, and the upcoming book promises the same wit, insight and bite.

You can explore everything Cally is up to — pre-order the book, catch up on podcast episodes, and grab tour tickets — via her website: https://callybeaton.com/

To secure your tickets for events across the festival, head over to the Shrewsbury International Comedy Festival website: https://sicfest.co.uk/

Huge thanks to Cally for being a fantastic guest, and a special shoutout to Nev Street for pulling this together — it was a scramble, but we made it happen!

Outro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Freya’s passion for Shrewsbury—especially its rich history—is infectious, and the content she’s been producing lately truly deserves recognition.

So, Alex invited Freya for a coffee and a chat at the Old Market Hall, right in the heart of town. And what better place to talk about history than a building that’s been standing since 1596?

This conversation left Alex feeling genuinely inspired, especially by the energy and creativity of younger people engaging with local heritage in such meaningful, high-quality ways.

A huge thank you to Cooper Green Pooks for lending us Freya, to the wonderful team at the Old Market Hall (especially Roberto) for being so welcoming, and of course to Freya—you're brilliant, keep doing what you do.

Outro Music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

In this inspiring episode, discover how SYST supports young people across Shropshire—not just through services, but through the passion and lived experiences of the people behind the charity.

Darren Duffy went from fruit picking in Europe with little direction to becoming a successful entrepreneur, now driven to help the next generation find their path.

Jon Gidney, a former PGA golfer, learned first-hand the importance of sponsorship in sport. After a career in sports marketing, he's now dedicated to helping SYST grow and reach even more young people.

In a world crying out for confident, independent young minds ready to work, create, and lead, SYST is making a real difference.

Find out more about Shropshire Youth Support Trust at their website.

INTRO MUSIC: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Links:

🔗 Shrewsbury U3A

🔗 Roy Fletcher Centre

We'd like to extend a special thank you to our valued partners at Shropshire Business Suite. Located in the heart of Shrewsbury, they offer a state-of-the-art venue featuring professional meeting rooms, conference facilities, and dedicated podcast spaces. For more information, be sure to visit their website at : https://www.shropshirebusinesssuite.co.uk/

Intro Music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

This show is all about showing off what Shropshire has to offer in terms of agricultural richness and tradition. Alex takes time to speak to a representative of young farmers and to the NFU about what is important about farming across the county and what shows like this means.

Alex also discusses traditions with commentator Tom Sellers as he talks about what judges are looking at when they are inspecting the animals and why awards for prize stock are so important.

Thank you to the organisers for sending out tickets. Alex and his family had a fun day out as well as getting some brilliant content from the hugely diverse array of people that were in attendance.

After overdoing it during Saturday at Loopfest, Alex is taking it easy on Sunday. Starting off with one of the fringe venues, Alex starts off at Nerdy by speaking to Kate Rose. Take a walk wit Alex as he speaks to many more artists during a fun-filled day of music.

To all of the performers, organiser and everyone who made Loopfest the wholesome, adventure that it was, THANK YOU. It was a very enjoyable event to cover.

Join Alex as he ventures across a very busy town filled with music and excitement. With a mic in-hand Alex's mission is to cram in as many interviews with artists performing at the many venues that make-up this huge event.

To all of the artists, organisers and everyone that made this year's festival go down so well, THANK YOU! This year was ace!

Join Alex as he sets sail on one of Shrewsbury’s most beloved vessels—The Sabrina Boat—to celebrate her 50th birthday! Since arriving in town in 2010, Sabrina has become a cornerstone of the local tourism scene, bringing thousands of visitors to the River Severn. But her story starts long before Shrewsbury, and in this special episode, Alex dives into both her past and the vibrant recent history built by her crew and passengers.

Along the way, Alex chats with some familiar faces who share what The Sabrina means to them—including Maggie Love, Bill McCabe, Stan Sedman, Jen from Shrewsbury Marine Services, Sophie Ritchings, NOT Sid (Shropshire Festivals), Darren Tomkins (GinDifferent), and Edward Goddard from Morris Companies. We also hear from Christine, who owned the boat when she was known as Lady Christine.

At the heart of it all is current owner Dilwyn Jones, who reflects on the highs, lows, and lessons learned during his years at the helm. His son, Harvey—aka The Sabrina Prince—also shares a few words about life growing up around the boat. Dilwyn’s heartfelt Sabrina birthday speech is included at the end of the episode in full.

A huge congratulations to Dilwyn and his brilliant team. You've built not just a business, but a lasting connection between the town and its river. From The Biscuit—thank you, and here’s to another 50 years on the water!

This episode is something a little bit special. As part of a Theatre Severn spotlight, Alex brings in some expert reinforcements in the form of friend of the show and self-professed theatre geek Polly Harrison. Together, they sit down with the cast of John Godber’s brilliant and heart-warming production Do I Love You—a vibrant show deeply rooted in the rhythm and culture of the Northern Soul movement.

Joining Alex and Polly for a lively, insightful chat are cast members Martha Godber, Emilio Encinoso-Gil, and Chloe McDonald. The conversation dives into the essence of the show, the energy behind Northern Soul, and what it’s like to be part of a production that resonates with so many on such a personal and cultural level.

They also explore each actor’s journey in the world of theatre, what drives their passion, and how performing in a show like Do I Love You challenges and inspires them. With a long-running, well-crafted script and dynamic characters, their responses are full of warmth, honesty, and a real love for the craft.

A huge thank you to The John Godber Company for reaching out and helping to make this happen, to the cast for giving up precious time before their soundcheck to talk to us, to Polly for co-hosting with her usual brilliance, and of course to Theatre Severn for being such fantastic hosts.

Whether you’re a theatre fan, a Northern Soul devotee, or just love a good behind-the-scenes chat, this one’s for you

SHOW REVIEW: After they spoke to the cast, Alex & Polly watched 'Do I 'Love You' and were very pleasantly surprised by a brilliant performance from a 3 person cast show that offers a tremendous amount of depth. 3 friends that work in a fast food joint, that find themselves enchanted by the Northern Soul dance movement. This kick-starts new, familiar and raw emotions from the group as they evolve through their love of the music. This brings on introductions of extra characters played by the cast that are so expertly portrayed that you wouldn't ever know. All Alex wanted to do after seeing this show was get up and boogie and maybe (or maybe not) go out for a pint with Keith. Finally Alex & Polly both agreed that the extra cast member for this show was the audience who would unexpectedly burst out into song as their favourite "tuuune" was played or there would be few gasps as a "tuuune" that they hadn't heard for years gets played. This show is definitely for both true Northern Soul fans and those at are new to the scene too.

Old Coleham Court has been three years in the making, with careful planning to ensure it blends seamlessly into its historic surroundings — and that it’s built responsibly, especially with local flooding in mind. And trust us, it’s seriously cool too.

After a full tour — taking in stunning views, exploring different apartment styles, and getting a glimpse of what’s still to come — Alex and Suzanne settle into one of the finished kitchens for a relaxed, informative chat. They cover everything you need to know, answer your questions, and give you the real story behind Shrewsbury’s newest landmark.

We'd like to extend a special thank you to our valued partners at Shropshire Business Suite. Located in the heart of Shrewsbury, they offer a state-of-the-art venue featuring professional meeting rooms, conference facilities, and dedicated podcast spaces. For more information, be sure to visit their website at : https://www.shropshirebusinesssuite.co.uk/

Intro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Alex chats with Seb Slater from Shrewsbury BID about the challenges and goals behind the town’s infrastructure updates, and why they matter. Then, in a first-of-its-kind moment, Alex gets “hooped” by Beth Heath from Shropshire Festivals for a podcast interview inside a hula hoop.

Finally, a chaotic but hilarious clip of Alex and his son stuck on the Ferris wheel thanks to a technical glitch.

Change isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary—and we’re here to talk about it. Business owners are welcome to join The Biscuit to share their views.

We'd like to extend a special thank you to our valued partners at Shropshire Business Suite. Located in the heart of Shrewsbury, they offer a state-of-the-art venue featuring professional meeting rooms, conference facilities, and dedicated podcast spaces. For more information, be sure to visit their website at : https://www.shropshirebusinesssuite.co.uk/

Intro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

🎙️ Today on The Shrewsbury Biscuit: Alex sits down with Shrewsbury Comic Con organiser Nick and legendary co-creator of The Walking Dead, Charlie Adlard. What’s the topic of conversation? Shrewsbury Comic Con 2025, of course!

The Biscuit has been proudly involved with SCC since its inception, and the event has grown so much it’s outgrown its original venue! This year, SCC is taking over Shrewsbury Town Centre, with events happening across the bottom floor of The Darwin Centre and St Mary’s Church. You’ve got until Saturday 19th July to get your cosplay ready—no pressure!

Charlie Adlard, a veteran of Comic Cons across the globe, shares his perspective on what makes events like this truly special. Drawing from years of experience, he explains why smaller, more intimate shows are often the most meaningful—for fans and guests alike—because they allow for deeper, more personal interactions.

The Shrewsbury Biscuit will be right at the heart of the action, broadcasting from our very own on-site studio and covering all the panels too. Mics will be rolling—we’ll see you there!

For tickets, event info, and more, check out the SCC website: shrewsburycomiccon.com

Big thanks to Nick and Charlie for joining Alex—it was an absolute pleasure catching up!

We'd like to extend a special thank you to our valued partners at Shropshire Business Suite. Located in the heart of Shrewsbury, they offer a state-of-the-art venue featuring professional meeting rooms, conference facilities, and dedicated podcast spaces. For more information, be sure to visit their website at : https://www.shropshirebusinesssuite.co.uk/

Intro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

This episode of The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast comes to you from Shropshire Business Suite, nestled in the heart of Shrewsbury. This is the perfect place to sit and discuss Shropshire Women in Business with good friend of the show Camilla Monk (Architecture Ventures and Katie Millard (The Happiness Coach).

Alex and Vick's really sink their teeth into detailed discuss about the services that Camilla and Katie are offering with Shropshire Women in Business or SWIB for short. Setting up a business is not easy, but can be a lot easier if you're part of a collective of people that are in a similar situation. Women who are all trying to do their best to juggle their businesses, along with everything that life can throw at them.

Offering expert talks, sessions, advice, content and networking opportunities with business owners across Shropshire, SWIB is the perfect opportunity for any budding woman business owner.

Here is a link to the Instagram page, please take a look, give them a follow and if you want to join, drop them a message - https://www.instagram.com/shropshirewomeninbusiness/

We'd like to extend a special thank you to our valued partners at Shropshire Business Suite. Located in the heart of Shrewsbury, they offer a state-of-the-art venue featuring professional meeting rooms, conference facilities, and dedicated podcast spaces. For more information, be sure to visit their website at https://www.shropshirebusinesssuite.co.uk/

Episode intro - What I Miss by Josh Lobley

On today’s episode of The Biscuit, Alex welcomes R&B and Hip-Hop star Dribbz for a free-flowing conversation about mental health, the highs of being a creator, and the not-so-glamorous side of content creation.

Dribbz shares how The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast inspired him to launch his own show, Dribbz Talks, giving him the platform to engage with people he admires—whether they’re from the music world or beyond. From surrogacy to ex-gangsters and, most recently, world champion boxers, Dribbz has been diving into a wide range of fascinating topics.

This episode is a laid-back yet insightful chat with someone who shares a lot in common with both Alex and The Biscuit. Anyone passionate about giving people a voice is a champ in my book—so thanks for this one, Dribbz!

🎙️ Follow Dribbz Talks on Instagram: @dribbz_talks_the_podcast

***

We'd like to extend a special thank you to our valued partners at Shropshire Business Suite. Located in the heart of Shrewsbury, they offer a state-of-the-art venue featuring professional meeting rooms, conference facilities, and dedicated podcast spaces. For more information, be sure to visit their website at https://www.shropshirebusinesssuite.co.uk/

Intro music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Recorded in the beautiful courtyard of Attingham Park on a sunny March morning, Alex sits down with a good friend of the show, Peter Metcalf. Peter, of course, is the mastermind behind the incredible UK Proms in the Park. The Shrewsbury Biscuit has been with UK Proms since its inception, and it’s always a true privilege to attend these extraordinary events.

Peter joins us today to share what we can look forward to this year as the show expands on an exciting new level. This year, the UK Proms is growing bigger and better, with larger stages, bigger acts, and awe-inspiring venues all across the UK.

We’re talking about UK A-listers, TV royalty, and musicians who will absolutely blow your mind. We’ll be there at the Proms on June 13th and 14th, with the stunning Attingham Park as our backdrop. You won’t want to miss this!

So, head over to UK Proms’ website, check out if there’s a show coming to your area, and grab your tickets now. This year’s UK Proms is an event you simply can’t miss!

We'd like to extend a special thank you to our valued partners at Shropshire Business Suite. Located in the heart of Shrewsbury, they offer a state-of-the-art venue featuring professional meeting rooms, conference facilities, and dedicated podcast spaces. For more information, be sure to visit their website at shropshirebusinesssuite.co.uk

Intro music - What I Miss by Josh Lobley

As part of her homework, Vick's had the task of setting up a couple of interviews and bringing her guests to the show without spilling too much about them to Alex. And today's guest is a fantastic one. Meet Shaun Owen, the proud proprietor of 12th Man Retro, a gem of a store nestled in The Parade Shopping Centre in Shrewsbury. If you’re a fan of football, especially vintage kits, this place is a must-visit. Shaun’s shop is the go-to spot for retro football shirts spanning all eras of the game.

You might be wondering, "What's so special about a football shirt?" Well, in this episode, we dive deep into that question. It's not just fabric and logos – there's an undeniable wave of nostalgia that comes with seeing a legendary player’s name on the back of a shirt. Take, for example, one of Shaun's prized possessions – a Robbie Fowler Liverpool shirt. Not only was it one of his personal favourites, but it was also one of the first shirts he ever sold. And as Shaun explains, parting with it felt like losing a little piece of his soul.

When someone’s passion for a hobby grows into a collection that spills onto the rails of a clothes store, you know there's an incredible story to be told. And in this episode, we’re all about sharing that story. Big shoutout to Vicks for putting together such a brilliant episode!

Don't forget to visit 12th Man Retro and check out all the other amazing businesses at The Parade Shopping Centre. The Shrewsbury Biscuit has some great memories from our time there.

Be sure to give the store a follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the12thmanretro/

Intro music - What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Coming to you live from the Shropshire Business Suite's gorgeous podcast studio, nestled right in the heart of Shrewsbury, we’re bringing you a very special episode today. We’ve got a guest of the highest caliber – someone who’s recorded over 1000 interviews across countless productions. Yes, today’s guest has had conversations with people from all walks of life, from all over the globe. We're talking business owners, artists, celebrities, medical experts, musicians, politicians… basically, anyone with a story worth telling has been behind this guest's microphone.

Have you figured it out yet? Drumroll, please... That’s right! Today’s guest is none other than – checks notes – the host of this very show, Alex Whiteley!!

Expertly guided by Vicks and Sian Brennan-Todd, this episode gives you the inside scoop on how Alex first dipped his toes into the world of podcasting, where the inspiration for The Shrewsbury Biscuit came from, and what the podcasting community really means to him.

Big thanks to Vicks and Sian for absolutely nailing it with this one. Enjoy!

Intro music - What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Today's episode comes to you from the incredible podcast studio at The Shropshire Business Suite in Shrewsbury—a hub designed to help business-minded individuals thrive. Through seminars, webinars, themed evenings, and, of course, podcasts, this space brings people together to share ideas and grow.

This time, AL & Vicks sit down with the man behind it all—local business mogul Stuart Woodings. His journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From overcoming drug addiction to building an impressive and ever-growing portfolio of business innovations, Stuart has a story that will leave you inspired.

His "just do it" approach to life is the ultimate motivation, and if there’s one episode of The Biscuit that will get you off your backside, this is it. By the time they wrapped up, AL & Vicks were ready to take on the world—and you might be too.

Follow Stuart’s journey on Instagram: @stuartwoodings

🎵 Intro Music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

On today's episode we welcome our new co-host of The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast, Victoria Ireland!

Vicks has been on the show before to talk about river safety but now she is about to buckle in and get stuck into everything Shrewsbury and Shropshire by becoming a very important part of the show.

AL breaks out the classic "Gauntlet" game where he tests Vicks' abilities behind a mic. We also ask a very important question, "if you could invite anyone alive onto a podcast, which 4 people would you choose?" This question was answered by many of you on Facebook, by Vicks as well as me and my family. This was a great discussion.

Welcome to the team Vicks, we already have a busy schedule lined up and we are ready to get stuck in with it.

In this episode, we dive headfirst into Colour Now! 2025, a vibrant art exhibition at Gateway Gallery, Shrewsbury. Invited by Lucy Caddel—who we first met at DRAWN—I had the chance to chat with the featured artists about their creative journeys.

Hear from Amy Rhodes, Natalie Chapman, Michael Paramore, and Lucy Caddel, with special guest appearances by Cherie Jerrard and MP Julia Buckley.

Colour Now! 2025 runs until 14th March—don’t miss the chance to experience its bold, colorful brilliance!

🎨 Follow the artists:

Lucy Caddel: @lucycaddel_art

Natalie Chapman: @nataliechapmanartist

Amy Rhodes: @amyrhodesart

Michael Paramore: @itchyboris

Chris Higson (not interviewed but worth a follow!): @chris_higson

Big thanks to everyone who joined me—enjoy the episode! 🎧

Intro Music - What I Miss by Josh Lobely

Located in the former Paolo’s spot, just a stone’s throw from Mardol (which is quickly becoming the go-to hub for international cuisine), The Elephant Underground brings something fresh and exciting to the town. Expect beautifully crafted Mexican dishes, expertly mixed cocktails, and soon, live music—making it one of the must-visit spots in Shrewsbury.

But first, we catch up with Liam himself. What’s he been up to, and how has he grown and evolved as a chef? From his culinary journey to his creative process, Liam gives us an inside look at what’s behind the magic of The Elephant Underground.

This episode is truly a feast for the senses. So here’s your plan: book a table, listen to the episode, and then dive into the vibrant flavours that Liam and his team are serving up. Don’t forget to share your experience with us—we’d love to hear your unique restaurant stories, and we might even feature them on the show!

🎧 Episode Intro: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Tune in, and let the adventure begin!

Recorded in November, this episode was initially set for a December release, but life got in the way. Thankfully, the wait is worth it—our guest, Sian Brennan-Todd, is truly exceptional.

Sian, a passionate presenter who travels to dance shows across the UK, embodies the spirit of dance. It was only fitting to interview her in the creatively charged Swan Hill Studios.

This episode highlights Sian's inspiring journey—from returning to Shrewsbury after living in Australia, establishing herself as a professional presenter, and excelling as a cheerleading coach. Her philosophy extends beyond dance, emphasizing discipline and life lessons: "It's about how you are off the mat." Sian's dedication to mentorship is truly remarkable.

Follow Sian’s journey on Instagram: @sianbrennantodd

For Shrewsbury Cheerleading, Dance, and Gym: @shrewsburycheerdancegym

Special thanks to Sian for her patience, and to Sam Pooley-Stride and The Circle for hosting us at Swan Hill Studios. Check them out here: @swanhillstudios

Theme music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Today on The Biscuit, I’m thrilled to welcome Rod Plummer, Executive Chairman of Shoothill. We're chatting in the warm and inspiring surroundings of Swan Hill Studios—a perfect setting for a creative conversation.

Shoothill began as a bold, creative gamble, and it’s paid off spectacularly. Their innovative software has reshaped how we see, learn, and think about the world around us. From reimagining Charles Darwin’s work and designing interactive movie posters with hidden surprises to developing the UK flood map that remains indispensable (especially in Shrewsbury!), Shoothill consistently pushes boundaries.

Want to map and measure your garden easily? They’ve got you covered. Or how about displaying the world’s largest prime number—over 17 million digits—with their groundbreaking Deep Zoom Megafiche Technology? The creativity is endless. To truly appreciate the breadth of their work, you’ve got to check out their website: https://shoothill.com.

Rod shared incredible stories and insights, making this episode a real treat. Huge thanks to Mike and Doug from Shoothill for making this happen, and to Sam Pooley-Stride for providing the amazing Swan Hill Studios to record in.

Theme Tune: What I miss by Josh Lobley

Get ready for a whirlwind of a podcast episode, launching our Swan Hill Studio Sessions! To kick things off, we sat down with Swan Hill's own creative force, Sam Pooley-Stride, one of Shrewsbury's most brilliant artistic minds.

Sam's authentic, no-nonsense insights make for amazing conversations about art, the transformative potential of Swan Hill Studios, and the opportunities within The Circle, a collective dedicated to keeping art alive in Shrewsbury.

We also delved into quirky topics like bananas taped to walls and conkers on plates—yes, the latest buzz in the art world—and Sam had plenty to say!

Explore more about Swan Hill Studios at swanhillstudios.com and follow their vibrant Instagram presence at @swanhillstudios.

Thank you Sam and the whole art community in Shropshire for letting me be a part of your world. Much love to all of you creatives.

Theme song: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Tim Ashton, custodian of Soulton Hall, explained the building's historical significance and its connection to Shakespeare, highlighting Shropshire's rich but underappreciated cultural heritage—an ideal backdrop for Jacob's work.

Jacob's sculptures, inspired by dance and motion, are meticulously crafted to appear delicately balanced, reflecting both technical precision and the raw vulnerability of his personal journey.

To fully appreciate Jacob's artistry, visit his website: jacobchandler.co.uk. Some of his pieces may already be familiar to locals!

Theme music: "What I Miss" by Josh Lobley

For the final episode of Season Charlie, we take a stroll through the DRAWN Festive Makers Market 2024—a place that holds a special spot in my heart. It was wonderful reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones.

Naturally, I posed the big question to the artists: "If you were a biscuit, which would you be?"—riveting stuff, only on The Shrewsbury Biscuit.

I caught up with friends like Gary Drew, Mollie V, Saffron Russel, Matt Sewell, and Sam Pooley-Stride, while also meeting new faces to me like Lorna Bennet, Lucy Caddel, Kelly from Team Sikel, and Caris Jackson.

A highlight was chatting with Cherie Jerrard, the curator and visionary behind DRAWN. Her dedication has provided a much-needed platform for artists to showcase their talents, especially after a challenging few years. Hats off to you, Cherie, for making DRAWN a resounding success.

This wraps up Season Charlie! We’ll return in two weeks with our classic weekly schedule—lots to look forward to. See you soon!

Intro Music - What I Miss by Josh Lobley

This episode has been a long time coming. While I don't usually dive into politics on the Biscuit, I believe every person has a story worth telling. I was honored to sit down with Shrewsbury's MP, Julia Buckley, to share hers.

We explore how Julia got into politics, her motivations, and the experience of running and winning an election. She also reflects on the impact of losing her friend, MP Jo Cox, whose positive influence continues to guide her.

Julia opens up about the challenges of representing an entire town, sharing insights on the groundwork she and her team put in before the election.

This relaxed episode offers a closer look at Julia Buckley as a person, with real emotions and relatable struggles.

Thanks to Julia for her time, to Phil Gillam for organizing, and to GinDifferent for hosting us in Shrewsbury Market Hall.

Theme music - What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Catching up with my good friend, Cat Merrick, over a mocha at The Shrewsbury Coffee House—one of my favorite town spots—is always a pleasure. Cat, a vibrant life coach focused on dance, movement, and yoga, made a lasting impact on me since her first appearance on my show in 2020. Back then, she inspired me to explore calm, breathing, and meditation.

Today, four years on, we’ve both grown. Cat has expanded her work from "Breath, Dance & Yoga" to "This Vibrant Life," where she now helps women leaders become more present and focused on self-development.

Want to learn more? Listen in, and connect with Cat on:

• Facebook: This Vibrant Life with Cat
• Instagram: @thisvibrantlifewithcat

Theme music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Sometimes, we unknowingly prepare ourselves for something extraordinary later in life. Today's guest, Claire Martinez from Colours of Shrewsbury, is a perfect example. We first met when she helped transform my interview with Alex from Osteria v2.0 into a true spectacle. Since then, I've watched Colours of Shrewsbury soar.

Whether it’s a beautiful window display, painted signage, pub signs, or managing social media content, Claire handles it all. Colours of Shrewsbury reflects Claire’s diverse experiences—from working abroad and for a prestigious car brand to designing cabinets for her husband’s business.

Follow Claire on Instagram and check out her work: https://www.instagram.com/coloursofshrewsbury/. If you see her around Shrewsbury, be sure to say hi!

Theme song - What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Here’s part two of my Shrewsbury Comic Con Spooktacular coverage. As 'The Voice of Shrewsbury,' I sometimes need to embrace my chatterbox side, hence this two-part episode on the amazing event.

In this episode, you'll hear interviews with Willie Coppen about his time as an Ewok in Star Wars: ROJ, legendary voice actor Matt Hill (Ed, Edd n Eddy, among 160+ IMDB credits), local author Kevin Horak, actress Amber Doig-Thorne on strong women in movies, and a catch-up with Mike Perkins after completing The Batman: First Knight. I wrap up with a chat with the event organizer, Nick, to see how things went.

Special thanks to everyone who spoke to me, and apologies to the gentleman dressed as a Nazgûl—my mixer wasn’t properly set up during our conversation!

Theme music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

This is part one of my Shrewsbury Comic Con Spooktacular coverage. I gathered so much content that I had to split it into two parts!

In this episode, I chat with The Preston City Ghostbusters about their year, Craig David Dowsett on his role in Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey, George Coppen on acting as a little person, Mike Carey on the Constantine debate, and Sam Kwasman, the voice of Donald Duck.

Part two is out now, so check it out next! Special thanks to Nick for the invite!

Theme song: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

This week's episode comes from Shrewsbury Town Football Club, where I'm attending the Shropshire Wellbeing Festival, mic in hand, to explore one question: What is wellbeing?

I spoke with experts across the health and wellness spectrum, amidst a bustling event full of stalls, people, music, and advice. Guests include:

• Rob Chapman
• Keith Gullis (Firewalking UK)
• Stewart Turner (We Are With You)
• Kirsty Worrow (One Crow Left)
• Shrewsbury Samaritans
• Beata Kratinova (Soul of Woman)
• June Meagher
• Lorraine Lawless (event organiser)

I also read your comments on what wellbeing means to you. I hope this episode reaches you in good health and helps at least one person.

Theme song: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

Today, I’m speaking with author Rosy Gee about her new cosy crime novel, The Mysterious Disappearance of Marsha Boden, set in a rural village. Rosy’s enthusiasm for writing shines through, and working with Roma Reads Publishing and editor Lauren Ilbury has been an adventure for her.

We also dive into Rosy’s writing process. Describing herself as a "literary pantser," she lets her characters guide her story, which was eye-opening for me!

The book sounds fantastic, and it was a joy to have Rosy on the show. Be sure to follow her and RomaReads, and grab a copy of her book!

Rosy Gee: https://www.instagram.com/rosygee345/

RomaReads: https://www.instagram.com/romareadspublishing/

Buy the book: https://www.romareadspublishing.com/product-page/the-mysterious-disappearance-of-marsha-boden

Theme Music: What I Miss by Josh Lobley

This week, I’m excited to have Josh Lobley, one half of Shropshire's popular duo, The Shire-ish Rover, on the show. We discuss his incredible talent, what drives his passion, the evolution of how we consume music, and how our tastes change over time.

Josh shares the challenges of performing in rowdy pubs and moving essential equipment between venues. He even brought his guitar to play "What I Miss," this year's theme song, which perfectly captures where I am in life right now.

Follow Josh and The Shire-ish Rovers on Instagram, and be sure to catch one of their shows for a great night:

• The Shire-ish Rovers: https://www.instagram.com/the_shire_ish_rovers/
• Josh Lobley: https://www.instagram.com/joshlobley__/

Theme song: What I miss by Josh Lobley

Hannah has a fascinating story about how she started with geology and then transitioned to hydrogeology. I especially enjoyed our discussion about work ethics. Hannah describes how she has built a company where her employees are empowered to grow and thrive in their roles.

I learned so much from this episode, and I'm sure you will too. If you want to learn more about what H Fraser Consulting does, please check out their website here: https://www.hfraserconsulting.co.uk/

Recorded at House Coffee in Coleham, a favourite spot of mine, we dive into Charlie's new project: "Coffee Shop." This book, distinct from his usual comic work, features sketches of people in local coffee shops, capturing everyday moments in Shrewsbury.

Charlie’s book not only showcases his artistic skills but also supports a great cause. All proceeds will go to The Hive, a Shrewsbury charity that helps young people develop their artistic talents. The Hive is currently in need of support, and Charlie aims to use this book to aid its preservation.

For more ways to help, visit The Hive's website: https://www.hiveonline.org.uk/

I had Mini-Biscuit Timmy with me throughout the day and he had his own important questions to ask our guests. This episode features us in our element, covering a subject which we love, Shrewsbury Town.

We spoke to Megan Joseph, new Town striker John Marquis, CEO Liam Dooley, Morgan Feeney, Women's head coach Darel Tidman-Poole, Jordan Shipley, Vikki Owen, Mal Benning and new keeper Toby Savin.

As a season ticket holder and proud part of the Block 9 community, to make this episode, was an honour. Thank you to Liam Dooley, Joe Masi, the Shrewsbury Town Supporters Panel and to everyone who spoke to us on this fantastic day.

Brought to you in partnership with Greenhous Shrewsbury I give you The Car Series. This episode is set at Shrewsbury Prison and I speak to prison owner Joel Campbell.

Today's Car is the 2024 Nissan Qashqai Tekna+ with E Power. I take a closer look at the car halfway through the interview.

Music:

Walking the Line - Foldback Studios

Livebreaks - Foldback Studios

This is of course the audio version of the episode which is currently on YouTube. If you want to SEE this episode, follow the link here to our channel - https://youtu.be/IX6vd-RHN_s

Team Biscuit set up a studio on the field for the day and we got some brilliant interviews throughout the day. We spoke to 2/3 of the In The Stiffs lad Sam Aiston and Gav Cowan. We spoke to the main man himself Adam Millichip about how he thought the day was going, we spoke to the 2 charities involved, The Whistle Foundation and Little Rascals about what it means to be a part of such an occasion. We even spoke to The Mayor of Shrewsbury.

What a great collection of interviews this is, thank you to everyone who spoke to us, thank you to Adam for the invite and you the listeners for being the best.

When a media outlet decides to dedicate it's last episode of a season to it's sponsor I guess it could be considered cliché. I have visions of Wayne's World and Noah Vanderhoff. This would add a hilarious dimension to The Biscuit but for this episode it is a genuine pleasure for me to welcome Pete White, founder of The Web Orchard, the sponsors of our very attractive website.

I wanted to discuss how the dynamics of running a website building and information solutions company has changed since Pete began all those years ago. Just think how much technology and the landscape we use it in has changed over the last 2 decades never mind since we were young.

This is such a chilled out episode, there are no mischievous hoodwinks hidden in this episode I promise just Pete's story.

I want you all to take a look at our new stunning website, built by our sponsor The Web Orchard. If you need a website for the thing that means the most to you in the world, these are your guys just take at what they built for us: https://www.theshrewsburybiscuitpodcast.co.uk/

Aaah the feeling of familiarity, The Dirty Rockin' Scoundrels in the background, the smell of food surrounding me and Liam Tinsley sneaking up behind us mid-interview. It must be Shrewsbury Food Festival and it just wouldn't be the same without me charging around with a mic.

This is a collection of interviews with independent stall holders, chefs and of course Shropshire Festivals gaffer Beth Heath.

I love these episodes because even though they are in essence the same concept, we get something different ever year. This year we went with a question that we asked almost everybody. "If you had to cook 1 dish to impress, what would you cook?" and we got some really interesting (and quit frankly shocking) answers.

Many thanks to the Shropshire Festivals team for always being so pleasantly accommodating towards me and my family.

Outro Music Credit - "Pump Truck Drifting" by Andy Mills

The Biscuit is back at UK Proms in the Park at the start of their 2024 tour. This year the event is being held at Attingham Park, right on the front lawn. During this podcast I speak to musicians, the brilliant compere Rodney Earl Clarke, the stunning soprano Kirsty McLean and lots of people who make this event run.

After the interviews that I caught at the event I've included a great conversation I had with event organiser Peter Metcalf. This was a great way to truthfully reflect on the event after a few days rest.

I have included snippets of music throughout this episode. I of course do not own the rights to any of this music, but I just had to show you, the listeners how amazing these musicians really are.

INSTA HANDLES

Please follow the guests that are mentioned in this interview:

https://www.instagram.com/ukproms/ https://www.instagram.com/rodneyearlclarke/ https://www.instagram.com/kirsty.soprano/ https://www.instagram.com/cosmicgirlie https://www.instagram.com/wingsitalyexperiences/

Adam Rhys is a good friend. I have seen him take TWS from it's beginnings, to become one of the top sports podcasts in the world. The podcast originates from Tettenhall Wood School and offers opportunities for their autistic students to interview some of the biggest sporting superstars in the world.

I spoke to Adam and the TWS cast at Pod Aid a while ago but this the first time that Adam has been on The Biscuit. I simply wanted to illustrate the amazing things that Adam and his team are doing for the neurodiverse community, this is truly amazing.

Adam also plays for Column Cricket Club who I hear are getting promoted every season to grow into one of the fastest growing cricket teams in Shrewsbury.

Adam is planning an All Star XI cricket match on the 21st July at Column Cricket Club featuring some famous sporting faces that Shrewsbury fans may know. There is a link here to buy a ticket for the event and if you use the code Biscuit20 you will get a nifty discount on your tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/column-cc-vs-all-star-xi-cricket-match-12pm-start-tickets-866170558457?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

Follow our guest:

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/twssportspodcast/

Website: https://www.twssportspodcast.co.uk/

Good deed: 3 brave gents from MKM Shrewsbury are organising a tandem skydive to raise as much money as they can for Little Rascals as they try and raise £25,000 for their sensory bus project. I would love it if you could chip on a couple of quid toward s this brave feat, I have included the link to their Just Giving page. Please give generously: https://www.justgiving.com/page/mkmshrewsbury-1716463265245?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Fmkmshrewsbury-1716463265245&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share

OK, we have featured a lot of music stuff on The Biscuit Lately but nothing quite like this. I think I actually said in this episode that I very rarely get opportunities to be sophisticated. Well today's guest Chris Taylor has put together SY.Gigs that will bring sophistication to Shrewsbury. So now, I have no excuse do I?

Taking some of Shrewsbury's most iconic, historical buildings and filling them with music, Chris is on a mission to bring not just music, but a musical experience to you locals. That being said, Chris is bringing musicians in from all over the world so I wouldn't be surprised if people come from far and wide to enjoy these events.

Do yourselves a favour and take a look at the Insta for SY.Gigs and hit the link at the top of their page to book tickets to the next event. You owe yourselves a night out, sipping wine, enjoying some beautiful music.

Here's the link - https://www.instagram.com/sy.gigs/

Matthew Doyle aka: Ease The Artists returns to the Biscuit to talk about how his music has evolved so much that he has gone from deleting whole albums, to becoming the top Hip-Hop artist in the whole of Shropshire (Shropshire Music Awards Winner 2023).

The last we caught up was post-pandemic and virtual now, we meet in person at the amazing Albert's Shed in Shrewsbury. There is so much to discuss like performing under a persona, what emotions are the best to rap to, the shifting cultivation of personal creative policies and of course what is next for Ease The Artist?

I've included a snippet of my fave Ease The Artist track: Soulsearchin' in the pod, but here is the link to the track via Spotify. It is easily found where you get your music though - https://open.spotify.com/track/5JKghGFAInrY9ezHZStJvW?si=990c8e8554e94174

Follow our guest on Insta - https://www.instagram.com/easetheartistuk/

Intro music credit: Pump Truck Drifting by Andy Mills

Here we are at Vol. 2, a second day for us at Loopfest. Today Me and Mini-Biscuit Timmy take on Shrewsbury Castle. Emphasis for this one is, chilling in the Castle grounds, eating pizza, soaking up the sun and speaking to some musical legends.

First up is Greysha who has such a powerful presence on stage with incredible wisdom when it comes to song writing. Then we spoke to the Uptown Monotones who talked about how a musician's abilities ages like fine wine. Then it's onto a BIG one for me and Timmy who get to speak to one of our idols, BEARDYMAN!

Then 2nd half of this volume is where I got to sit down and have a good chat with event organiser Jimmy Kebab. We did the interview a week after the event so there was a bit of distance from him running the event and we get to look back at it.

These volumes are dedicated to James Warman. You kept this content alive, thanks buddy.

Intro music credit: Pump Truck Drifting by Andy Mills

Join me as I take on Loopfest 2024. This year there is a plan and I am determined to have planned the perfect audio representative of this wonderous event.

Starting at Shrewsbury Castle I speak to James Warman (music photo god) The Endings, Manor Heights and Tom from Nubian Twist.

I then gather my things and sprint-walk to Frankville to speak to The Fiends and The Great Leslie Band.

I finish off at St Mary's where I spoke to Cousin Kula, the legends that are Laura and Ryan and finishing off with The Scribes. Then home to pass out.

These 2 volumes are dedicated to James Warman. You kept this episode alive buddy thank you!

Intro Music Credit: Pump Truck Drifting by Andy Mills

This episode comes to you from Osteria V2.0 which is situated on Mardol, Shrewsbury. I am speaking to head chef and stand up gent, Alex. When you talk about authentic Italian cooking, it doesn't come more authentic than Alex who is from Florence and has brought what he learned from Italy, to us, here in Shrewsbury.

Alex is an award winning restaurateur, but we chatted about what inspired Alex to become a chef and the moment he knew it was his destiny. As far as origin stories go, this one is up there with the best so don't miss out on that.

We answered a lot of questions from the public. You guys sent in some really good topics for us to discuss about styles of cooking, about whether to keep things fresh and modern or staying traditional, the best Italian cheeses and even the long fought debate of "does pineapple belong on pizza?" - It's all here in one, great, episode!

Follow our guests:

• Insta: Osteria - https://www.instagram.com/relax_at_osteria/
• Colours of Shrewsbury - https://www.instagram.com/coloursofshrewsbury/

Intro Music Credit - Pump Truck Drifting by Andy Mills

This episode is great because its super unfiltered for a typically non-sweary show. It has to be though because today's guests come from a background that needs to be described in such a way. For episode 2, I bring you past guest and friend of the Biscuit Ben Butler, Jason aka Chanman and Caymen Donnelly.

They're here to talk about heir difficult upbringings, their struggles growing up around the world of crime, drugs and violence. Now, their lives have been changed through fitness and boxing. Something special is happening that is helping people take their beef off the streets and put into a controlled environment in the ring.

This may sound completely mad out of context, but Unleashed Boxing is changing peoples lives for the absolute better and this episode provides you with all of the contextual glue you need to understand it all.

Intro music: Pump Truck Drifting by Andy Mills

links for today's guests are as follows, please give them some love

Chanman: Insta: https://www.instagram.com/thechanmanuk/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chanmanthechamp

Ben Butler: Insta: https://www.instagram.com/newgenerationcoaching/

Caymen Donnelley: https://www.instagram.com/caymendonnelly15/

Unleashed Boxing: https://www.instagram.com/unleashedboxingevents/

Well, what an honour it is to be able to sit down with the High Sheriff of Shropshire in the Mayors Parlour of Shrewsbury Castle to do this interview. Not only is it a perfect way to set off Season Bravo, but it means I finally get to sit down with someone who I have heard so much about about, Mandy Thorn.

We have met before while I have been out and about at events, but to sit down and really get to speak to a person is something else. Mandy is incredible. You can tell from the way she talks about her time as High Sheriff, that she has enjoyed every minute of her year and has really listened to the people she has met along the way.

Here is your last opportunity to really meet Shropshire's High Sheriff from over the last 12 months. I give you Mandy Thorn...

Intro music: Pump Truck Drifting by Andy Mills

What better way to spend a day, than to be walking around Shrewsbury Comic Con with a mic in-hand? This is what I was born to do and on Saturday 6th April I spent a good 3 hours speaking to comic book legends, up and coming stars, vendors and even some Ghostbusters!

Follow me and Mini-Biscuit as we take look in to the inaugural Shrewsbury Comic Con event, there are some great stories in here, some fantastic advice and even some exclusive content.

The people featured in this episode are: East Midlands Garrison, Nathan Head, James Warman , Rich Watkin (Digital CBS), Stewart Bellis (Black Death Comics), Shane Chebsey (Hedrek), Luke Michael Copsey, Irina Richards (Manga), Mike Perkins, Mike from Preston City Ghostbusters, John Wagner, Leslie and Wesley (Black Ink Comix), Polly Harrison (lulu and the Beans), the guys from Hobby Time at Healys, organiser Nick and Charlie Adlard.

Special thanks to organiser Nick, Tom Corbett and everyone who made this happen, I had a great time at this event.

To wrap up Season Alpha we bring you 2 phenomenal guests, Michaela Wylde & Simon Berry. You may know these 2 legends from BBC Shropshire's Music Introducing show where for years, local musicians had a platform to play their music.

Now Michaela & Simon have moved onto The Salopian Mixtape which has the same magical formula but as their own independent podcast. Such an intriguing prospect deserves to be investigated properly. So armed with coffee, candles and microphones we really down to the bottom of how the transition has gone. This episode is so much fun!

The Salopian Mixtape is my favourite place to find out about new local music. You should absolutely throw this show into your pod-rotation. The Spotify link is here but the show will be available on all good podcast platforms - https://open.spotify.com/show/1KOeZOHbithGvqoO8eclBi?si=c04f8a609b0a46cd

...Be back on the 6th of May guys with Season Bravo

This episode has been some months in the making I tell you. Me and Steve have been trying to make this work since Shrewsbury Food Festival 2023. What I can confirm is that this episode was worth waiting for because not only is The Hungry Guy everywhere, not only is he a nationally recognised food educator but he is pretty awesome on the mic.

We discuss Steve's career as a product development designer and how that job was the last straw when it comes to educating about not wasting food. Also the importance of making the most out of what ingredients we have around us to make healthy, tasty meals.

Thank you Steve for coming on The Biscuit, I appreciate everything you are doing to try and raise awareness in your role as a food educator. If you would like to follow everything that Steve is up to you can check out his website here - https://www.thehungryguy.co.uk/ and you can give him a follow on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/_thehungryguy/

I was lucky enough to be invited to the 60th anniversary of the Samaritans in Shrewsbury by Claire Oulton. This was a fantastic opportunity to speak to so many people that had contributed to The Samaritans on many different levels, some for many years.

The first half of this episode is a 30 min sit-down with Claire, Angie and director Lauren. The conversation was about what the Samaritans of Shrewsbury offer as a service, how these amazing people go about their jobs and conduct themselves in a safe and sustainable way.

The second half was recorded as people were walking into the party. I spent a bit of time speaking to people with interesting stories. The goal was to understand if and how the landscape for what The Samaritans do to help and the reason why people needs help may have changed in the last 60 years. You may be surprised at the results.

Disclaimer:

This episode does come with a disclaimer. There are some triggering conversations for people that may be sensitive to conversations about suicide.

If you need help from the Samaritans you can call them on 116123

If you'd like to help Shrewsbury Samaritans and become a phone listener please get in touch by visiting their website - https://www.samaritans.org/branches/shrewsbury/

When it comes to innovative business and throwing a good party, Beth Heath is a recognised world leader. The leader of the fantastic team at Shropshire Festivals has been running events for a very long time. The landscape for what Beth and her team do for a living is always changing. If you cast your minds back to the last 5 years it might just give you traumatic flashbacks of lifestyle changes brought on my pandemics, financial fluctuations and bloody train strikes! Well these are the scenarios that have been faced head-on by Beth and her team.

But how has this changed things for Beth? How has this changed the way business is done? and how will things look this year? Whether you are a business enthusiast or just curious to know what goes on behind the curtain, this episode has it all.

Make sure you follow Shropshire festivals, here is the insta link: https://www.instagram.com/shropshire_festivals/

The guest for this episode is one with a story of hard work, survival and determination. All of this led to the creation of one of the coolest brands, Sox UK. We are of course speaking to Sarah Wareing or Saz as she is know by her friends.

Sox UK is a pandemic-born creative passion that snowballed into a business that was excelled by Sarah's fight to provide a life, wellbeing and even a home for Saz and her little girl. I won't spoil the interview by going too much into it, you will have to listen.

Saz is vibrant, super creative, driven and very fun guest with lots of fantastic stories to tell. This is a real Biscuit classic episode and I would like to thank Saz for joining me, plus our mutual friend Jane Pickworth for helping to make this happen.

Follow Sox UK here: https://www.instagram.com/sox_uk/

James Millichamp is the perfect guest to join me at the halfway point of Season Alpha. Featuring lots of free flowing chat about the arts, education, history and why for some reason Wolverhampton is the centre of the universe. We really do put the world to rights in this one.

If you listen to this show regularly you know that I'm at my best when I'm speaking to an artistic mind. But what about an artist in his own right, who's also an art teacher that helps to mould young minds?

We talk about what it is to inspire young minds, to go out there and be the best that they can be. How to inspire individuality while following a curriculum is one of the best parts of this episode.

Make sure you give this award winning artist a follow because frankly, he's everywhere right now. Here's his insta - https://www.instagram.com/jamesmillichamp/

Being a huge fan of traditions, I love the fact that Mark Fielden is back on The Shrewsbury Biscuit, talking about another great Chords Crush Cancer event. This event just gets bigger and bigger every year. So much so, that this event in particular is titled "The Last Chapter"....the last of it's kind Mark says, tune in to find out more.

Also discussed we talk about some of the most unique prizes Mark has cunningly acquired throughout the year. Lets see if any can top the record-breaking Wayne Rooney top from last year, which we talk about too. The date to save for this year's event is 3rd February 2024 and it is being held at the Inn on the Green in Radbrook.

Mark has also written a book about his mum Margaret and the painful, memorable and wonderful journey they all went through during Margaret's battle with Cancer. Mark beautifully talks about some highlights from the book. Please support this effort by getting your own copy of the book here - https://amzn.eu/d/bcsoJyK

Give Chords Crush Cancer a follow on Instagram too and stay up to date with what to look forward to. The link is here - https://www.instagram.com/chordscrushcancer/

From an Instagram post years ago which grabbed my attention to now, so much has happened for today's guests Ash and Joey. As we record this episode, there is scaffolding up, lots of empty space ready for machinery and lots of colour on the walls. We are in the brand new studio for Dungarees and Squeegees in the English Bridge Workshop.

Dungarees & Squeegees is a screen-printing studio with a lot of heart.

Ash and Joey are here to tell their story. From their days in college to the expectations of opening their very own studio in Shrewsbury. Plus there is so much to understand about screen printing as it can be a complicated process.

Back is the new popular segment "Random-innit?" with a brand new soundbite thanks to Derek Willis.

There is a Kickstarter starting for Dungarees & Squeegees on Friday 26th January. Please take a look at this link and support this brilliant local artists - https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/shrewsburys-first-open-access-print-studio

Also, please give them a follow on Instagram, it really helps : https://www.instagram.com/dandsstudio/

Recorded at The Restaurant at Theatre Severn, I speak to Anneka Reece, host of The Alcohol Free Vibes Podcast and life coach (see link below).

I thought it would be a good idea to speak about alcohol-free living during January as I know that there are a lot of people that give up alcohol during January and also, it is a very positive life choice to discuss.

Me and Anneka had planned release this before Christmas but I went and took my break so I am delighted to bring this episode you now, as destiny planned it.

Here is the link to The Alcohol Free Vibes Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DFfljozvanddAOB96oAc3

Here is the link to The Dry Dock in Weymouth (as mentioned on the show): https://www.drydock.org.uk/

And here is the link to Anneka's Insta which has all the info you need if you want to follow her: https://www.instagram.com/coachingbyanneka?igsh=cXIxeW1lbmUzNDN4

I know it's weird right? why Season Alpha and why the change? Well you will just have to listen in to find out.

Episode one, is a fantastic way to start this new phase. Executive chef, Rob Gibson joins me for a chat about his amazing career. From eager an 15 year old working in a bustling kitchen, to working with some of the most famous chefs on the planet, travelling all over the world to cook and becoming a household name amongst Shropshire's finest chefs.

Rob has a fantastic story to tell, but don't take my word for it....

Featured artists are:

• Coffee?
• Guns For Girls
• Miss Ink
• The Founders
• Macy O
• Michaela Wylde and Simon Berry
• James 'Bassphaze' Lock
• Loose Lips
• Recall the Remains

And a gentleman who should feel ashamed of himself, Mr Trademark Blud (listen to the episode for context)

LISTEN TO THE END OF THIS EPISODE FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH THE BISCUIT :)

From here, Amir has gone on to do so many brilliant things. From Broadway to TV, to the movies, Amir appeared in The Secret Garden alongside Colin Firth and of course in the smash hit HBO series His Dark Materials (available on BBC iPlayer).

However glamorous this may sound though, these rewards are a result of and end up resulting in hard work. Amir's journey is incredible and it's here for your listening pleasure.

Follow Amir on his journey, here is the link to his instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amirwilson_/

Staring us off is Louise Welsby who has been working with the festival for sometime. Louise was so kind to us, taking us around the site and introducing us to so many cool people like the folks from Netherton Foundry, Wenlock Spring, Organiser Jess, Kevin from Caradoc Charcoal, Rupert Bennett from Bennet & Dunne, Gary from Ludlow Brewery and Katie Johnson from Wot's Cooking.

There were a few opportunities to pinch interviews with Alex Risdon from the world famous Risdon and Risdon, Marcus Bean and cook book entrepreneur James Whetlor.

This was an interesting, hot day and enjoyment was had, exploring the castle grounds and speaking to so many great people. Thank you to Louise, Jess, Jessica and everyone who took to the time to speak to Alex and Mini-Biscuit.

So much goes into an event like this and there is a deep meaning behind it that gives artists something to strive towards. But while it really was great to talk about the logistics behind such an extraordinary event, Alex took some time out to talk about the career of Trademark Blud and geek out about music (it's becoming an issue lately!)

To be naturally gifted at something means that muscle memory can drag you out of almost any situation. Trademark tells about a story where he somehow managed to pull off a flawless performance while so drunk, he barely remembers it!

The Shropshire Music Awards 2023 is going to be out of this world and I encourage all of you, jump on the website right here: https://www.shropshiremusicawards.co.uk/ and book a ticket (before they all go!) I will see you there with my mystery guest co-host - AL

Featured on this show which comes to you in part of our ongoing work with Shropshire Mental Health Support are, Dave who has had help addressing his demons with Shrewsbury Town Foundation, Heidi Gomm who sadly lost her brother plus Simon, who lost his brother and has been working hard to promote suicide awareness with a series of what he calls silly walks.

We also speak to representatives from Shrewsbury Abbey, including Padre Pat who talks about the community aspect of being a part of something positive where one can be taught the importance of being kind to ones self and others.

Heidi has got a fantastic idea of building a safe place in the grounds of the Abbey, where people can sit if they are feeling down and be surrounded by positive messages from others. This is a new idea that needs to gain a bit of momentum, please use this link to support this idea on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suicide.awareness.memorial.shrewsbury.sams

I f you have been effected by the topics raised in this podcast here are some useful links and numbers:

Shropshire Mental Health Support: https://www.shropshiremhs.com/

SAMARITANS

116 123 (free) jo@samaritans.org

PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK

0800 068 4141/   07786 209 697 pat@papyrus-uk.org

SHROPSHIRE MHS INFOLINE

01743 368647 86463

Shrewsbury Town Foundation: https://www.foundationstfc.co.uk/health-wellbeing/

Featuring some very exciting V.I.Ps, great photo ops with brilliant movie props, exciting D&D sessions and lots of opportunities to enjoy a true Comic-Con experience right on our own doorstep.

The event is happening on Saturday 6th April 2024 10am - 4pm at Shrewsbury Football ground and Nick talks about what is on offer. You can find out much more and order your tickets here: https://www.shrewsburycomiccon.com/

This is a fun, relaxed podcast with a few Alex nerdgasms thrown in, because he will always geek out when given the opportunity. But there is an underlying point to it all. To share a tremendous amount of passion with others about pop culture in one place is a really special thing. This event is exciting and could offer a legacy that just grows and grows every year.

Good luck Nick and the team!

Alex and Hazel discuss the stunning and collaborative writers community in Shrewsbury. We have already featured some fine examples of these folks on this show before. A perfect example mentioned directly in this audio is Violet Fenn who currently has books hitting the heights of Amazon's bestsellers. It's amazing how much advice and appreciation writers offer each other in this town and it deserves it's mention here.

How are characters, stories and content created? and more importantly curated in a short novel? Alex and Hazel talk about the difficulties of creating compact content. Of course Alex goes on a tangent about Rick and Morty...it's like he's obsessed with the show!

I would urge you, the listeners to pick up a copy of Orange, help support local authors and pick up a great book in the process here is the link - https://amzn.eu/d/g7POKVl

Also here is the link to 'Natalie Hedgerow and the Orange Alien' to read to the kids - https://amzn.eu/d/cjDdjQ3

Josie's petition

Here is the link for Josie's petition to combat the dog poop problem in Belle Vue and Coleham - https://chng.it/4p9g5wcjD8

Well today Dave is telling Alex about the Shrewsbury W100 Tennis tournament that is happening at The Shrewsbury Club between Sunday 15th - Sunday 22nd October 2023. Only this time there will be no cataclysm. Instead there will a tennis tournament of the highest order, bringing in players from all over the world.

Dave says that this won't just be just a tournament, there are plans to have events running all throughout the week, creating more of a festival vibe.

This is all well and good, sounds amazing, but what actually goes into creating an event like this and who is managing what? Of course Dave has all of the answers and this podcast has all of the information you may need leading up to the event.

If we missed anything, please visit the event's website where you can buy tickets, learn about the events happening during the tournament and any announcements that are made. Here is that link: https://worldtennistourshrewsbury.com/

It is very rare to find an artist who can encapsulate an emotion or a situation so vividly because, well, that is what makes art so special right? Well Vanessa's website offered this podcast an arsenal of interesting topics, just based on Vanessa's work. Take a look for yourself right here: https://www.vanessafairfaxwoods.com/

Mental health has been cropping up on this show an awful lot lately in many different forms of discussion. But it is rare when someone is prepared to show their ultimate vulnerable (yet strong) side to show what is means to be affected by mental health issues. This is where Vanessa comes in and it sets this episode up beautifully.

I like to think that I am very good at finding very good guests for this show, but the truth is lately, the most amazing guests and opportunities are coming to me and today's guest is a real treat. Not only does Vanessa have a brilliant message to give, not only is she brilliantly eloquent on the mic, but her work is phenomenal too. This ticked all of the boxes for me before we even hit record. - AL

Today's topic is about when a business woman has to change her script after finding out she is unexpectedly...expecting. What happens to the mindset of a real go-getter in business when all of a sudden things are changing, priorities are shifting and hardcore vulnerability sets in.

Camilla Monk is one of Shropshire's leading business ladies and is a parent too so, proof in the pudding that it can work.

This seems like such a casual topic to be discussing on the show, but not really, not when you think about it. Women in business have babies all of the time, but, where did they get their advice? Who did they talk to about their insecurities? Well we offer you the opportunity to eavesdrop in this discussion and hopefully there's a few nuggets of advice here in this podcast for you.

Follow Alex McCarthy on Instagram and stay up to date with her journey: https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching

Also follow Camilla Monk, as there is always something exciting in her world https://www.instagram.com/architecture_ventures/

Since he was an enthusiastic film maker in his teens, Luke has been regularly guesting on The Biscuit and we always take a deep dive into great topics when he is on the show. Today's episode is of no exception.

Luke talks to us about his decision to leave college and concentrate on his work on-set and in the writers rooms as the experience he has received there is ten to the dozen. We find out about Luke's new production company "Ask Seek Knock" The name of this paying homage to this Christian faith, it is derived from the passage Matthew 7:7 'Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and the door will be opened to you'

Of course we started talking about religion and how it all plays into comedy writing. Luke has some goals that he has set himself that, if done correctly, could pay off really well for him. But there is one conundrum to solve first, how does one write GOOD Christian humour?

Yes we go into conversations that may seem like troubled waters in this one, but Luke is my friend and I am comfortable having these conversations with him, it's healthy. Plus, it wouldn't be a Luke Allen guest appearance if it wasn't edgy!

Toady Alex is joined by Ruth, Maree and Amanda. Maree talks about her new role as deputy manager and what the charity needs going forward. Amanda talks about her role with Shropshire Sanctuary plus her experience dealing with mental health. Ruth hits us with lots of facts and statistics which help keep the discussions flowing.

There are many topics covered in this episode but the main vibe here is opening up to mental health, the triggers around us and how to access help with Shropshire MHS if you need to do so.

To help though, here is a link to the Shropshire Mental Health Support website - https://www.shropshiremhs.com/ And the number to call to speak about therapy or find out information is 01743 368647

As an icebreaker, Alex speaks to various members of the Shrewsbury Town community, Starting with the dedicated football police officer for the club, a steward who has grown an affinity to the club, Director of Football Micky Moore and chief business development officer Jamie Edwards.

We are going to be producing a range of content with long-time supporters, staff members and maybe even the odd classic player or two. If you would like to come on the show or know someone who you'd like to feature, please get in touch. Our email is shrewsburybiscuitpodcast@gmail.com

The nature of interviews such as these are designed to discover the person behind the appointment of Mayor. A conversation about where Mrs Wall started in life, what her aspirations are and also what is like for her to become the mayor of this great town.

What are the things that one looks forward to the most, in becoming the Mayor? What are the challenges? In Mrs Wall's situation it was giving speeches, however there was a solution to this particular problem and we find out about that in this episode.

Every Mayor has goals and achievements that they set. Mrs Wall's target is to improve the town's accessibility by highlighting some particularly difficult to reach places for access via wheelchair. We also discuss the charities that will be focused on during Mrs Wall's mayoral year, Diabetes UK and Guide Dogs UK. These charity choices stem from scenarios personal to Mrs Wall, as described in this episode too.

It is always nice to sit down with the Mayor of Shrewsbury for a nice long chat. We all observe Mayors come and go, we may even see them at events throughout the year but what do we know about these people that represent our town. This is a nice way to break the ice and get to know the person behind that shiny chain. Thank you so much to Becky and her brilliant team for making this happen. I look forward to seeing our Mayor at events throughout the year - AL

Starting at Shrewsbury Castle, moving onto the Bulls Head and then finishing at The Anchor Inn, it seems not very far!

Biting off more than he can chew, this task was a lot harder than he realised. That being said this podcast includes some really great interviews ft Ben from Manor Heights, David Gregg, (Albert's Shed) National Milk Bar, the landlady from The Anchor and Vincent Whyte. With smatterings of interviews gained on the way around town.

The second half of this episode features post-event interviews with Jack Norcup from Chasing August and Loopfest creator Jamie Smith aka Jimmy Kebab.

Special thanks go to Derek, Tracey and Caitlyn Willis plus Neville Street. These guys found me struggling with my gear and took me under their wing. We went on a journey across Loopfest together, sampling the atmosphere along the way. Their voices added something really special to this episode. A brilliant co-hostery team for a day of great local music.

Joining the show for this one are experts on river safety Andy Neal and David Brown for West Mercia Search and Rescue. Also joining the show is representative from 'Make Our River Safer' - Victoria Ireland.

Where does 'Make Our River Safer' come from and what impact can a Facebook page (that has 7,000 followers) have on the community? Well Victoria is here to talk about the great work that they do, collaborating with so many in Shrewsbury.

Andy and David talk about 'the job.' What kind of duties are there when it comes to being a member of Search and Rescue. What advice is there for a worried parent or friend that is passionately looking for a someone that may have fallen into the river? What advice is there for someone who might find a person struggling in the river? What advice is there for you, if you happen to fall in the river?

There is so much information included in this episode that It really is just best to get stuck into it.

Follow 'Make Our River Safer' on Facebook right here - https://www.facebook.com/makeourriversafer

Find our everything you need to know about West Mercia Search and Rescue via their website right here - https://westmerciasar.org.uk/

Thank you to everyone involved with this one. We appreciate that this is a difficult subject for many. We are just glad that we managed to put something together that can help people with some great advice. - AL

Alex is joined my Canadian comedy superstar JJ Whitehead and festival organisers Beth McGowan and Neville Street.

We spend the first half of the show talking to JJ about his career and how he crafts his material. JJ also talks about his work with Jim Jeffries as his warm-up act. Now living in L.A, but over here in the UK, JJ is currently working up and down Britain, touring. So we are very grateful to be talking to him today.

The second half is spent talking about the Comedy Festival itself. JJ has fond memories of performing at Henry Tudor House to a packed out room in 2019. Beth and Neville discuss the acts that will be performing at the Festival from Thursday 13th July.

JJ is performing again this year and he is NOT to be missed. His show this year is on Saturday 15th July at 5pm, he will be performing at Albert & Co Frankville. The tickets are a steal at £8, especially with the hilarious show you're going to get.

The link for tickets to JJ's performance is right here, get those tickets in folks: https://www.theatresevern.co.uk/shows/comedy/jj-whitehead/

Alex is at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery for a private exhibition for Shrewsbury Arts Trail 2023. We have all seen the pictures of the amazing sculptures throughout the town, this is the sculpture trail. Well now the full arts trails is open in its full capacity. There are hundreds of displays exhibited throughout Shrewsbury which include pieces by Salvador Dali, Jacob Chandler and from nearly 600 local artists too.

Alex, mic in-hand is here to speak to some of those artists starting off with the gentleman who invited Alex along, friend of the show, John Wragg. Alex speaks to (takes a deep breath) Richard Royal who has just opened up Studio 67 in The Parade (make sure you check this out, it's brill), Deafblind artist John Fin, aided by Paul Siroky, the High Sheriff Many Thorn, Ellie Cliftlands, Maggie Love, Julia Goldmsith, organiser Phil Langstaff, the amazing Andrew Logan, Jane Beesley and Yulia Lavrenchuk.

This is just too much talent! My mind had a bit of an overload processing some of the amazing conversation I had that evening. Good thing I had the trusty mic to remind me about what was said. This is an incredible episode and I'm proud to share it. Please visit the Shrewsbury Arts Trail website and go into town and check it all out. It's brilliant! Here's the link - https://www.shrewsburyartstrail.com/ - AL

To add a fun twist on interviews for this episode Alex and Verity are going head to head in a game called Word Up! A game where they take random words that were sent in by the public and they have to wedge them into interviews. First (or nearest) to 30 words used wins.

This game takes nothing away from the great interviews that they had with Lingen Davies, Chef Rob Gibson, (https://www.instagram.com/rootsandwingschef/) Sandeep Kumar from The Manhattans, (https://www.instagram.com/theminhattans/) Chef Chris Burt, (https://www.instagram.com/chefchrisburt/) and what Food Festival would it be without a chat with TV chef Jean-Christophe Novelli. (https://www.instagram.com/jeanchristophe_novelli/) Alex and Verity finish off their day by speaking to a chef called David who was helping out at the Chefs Locker tent by cooking some tasty bites that were enjoyed on-mic. He has a fantastic Instagram with lots of sexy looking food right here (https://www.instagram.com/spice_punch/)

This event is always such a perfect event for The Biscuit, with plenty of people to speak to and lots to look at. We got caught short this year with a force dip out of the Sunday coverage. Nonetheless this is a great episode and Word Up! Just made all the more fun to record.

Congratulations to Beth Heath and the Shropshire Festivals team for 10 years of such a fantastic event. Shrewsbury Food Festival holds such a special place in our hearts here at the Biscuit, with so many fond memories.

Part one

Alex enlisted the help of Tara Brindle from the Courtyard Collective to go into the rural village of Ryton where a meeting was taking place. This meeting was a gathering of locals who are planning on saving their local pub, The Fox Inn by turning it into a community Pub. Alex and Tara speak to Davide Thorpe who is a resident of Ryton and is on the steering committee. He talks about the importance of a rural village like Ryton having a community hub like The Fox Inn and what it would mean to save this local asset. There is a plan in place, a lot of research has gone into it, now all they need are pledges from potential future shareholders.

This is an interesting story that we'd like to keep up to date with on The Biscuit and this was a short, subtle ice-breaker. To find out everything you need to know about these developments please visit the Facebook page dedicated to this cause. The link is right here - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090131627119

Part Two

Having not had the time to really catch up with Verity, Alex thought it was important to have an episode where they could spend a bit of time doing just that. In this hour(ish) sit-down Alex and Verity talk about what they have been up to, updates on some of the episodes that have been released recently. Verity is bringing her own monthly episode to The Biscuit where she call the shots, this is first discussed.

Alex talks about Pod Aid 3 properly for the first time and the gauntlet is well and truly thrown down for the upcoming Shrewsbury Food Festival. These plucky podcast hosts will be going head to head in Word Up! A game where lots of random words are wedged into interviews that will be concluded throughout their day together at the festival...oh it's on!

The UK Proms in the Park is an open-air classical concert featuring a wonderful orchestra lead by Alex Postlethwaite and conducted by Joe Davies. When is comes to culture, classical music is the engine that drives it. Whether it be operas, TV shows, cartoons or movies classical music is the perfect companion to all media in general.

So, Alex was in his absolute element running around with a microphone speaking to musicians, organisers and sampling music too (including a beautiful solo by the one and only Katy Rink!).

We tried to get a lengthy interview with organiser Peter Metcalf but he was here, there and everywhere doing his thing. We spoke to conductor Joe Davies, leader Alex Postlethwaite, the beautiful voice that is Samantha Oxborough and compare/singer Rodney Earl Clarke.

WORD-UP! Ok, so we implemented a new game on the show (at probably the worst time) We asked for a list of random words that had to be wedged into conversations that took place on this podcast. We had 46 words, but how well do you think Alex did shoehorning them into his interviews?

The UK Proms in the Park is a tour and there are 3 more shows to go in Warwick Castle, Bath and Windsor so if you would like tickets, we highly recommend taking a look at the website for more information and ticket sales - https://www.ukacgroup.com/ukpromsinthepark-1

After deciding to quit the booze Kate found an inspiring community online who offer warm, judgement free support for those wanting to make such a big change to their lives. Kate has an online following of thousands herself and is working hard to help others get sober with "Walking_the_straight_line" plus a podcast called The Sober Effect with her American co-host Steph.

If you want it, the help is there in abundance, with the communities that Kate rocks with but if you're on the fence about kicking the booze, Kate is here to let you in on a few facts. This is free flowing discussion where Alex takes a bit of time getting to understand Kates story and today's guest is well...brilliant.

If you'd like to follow Kate's Instagram (which we highly recommend that you do) the link is right here : https://www.instagram.com/walking_the_straight_line/

Kate and Steph's Podcast The Sober Effect is also right here: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Zt6V6Vtewg67OB45U1UPf?si=91b0a1f5a0ae4d42

If you know anyone that might benefit by listening to this podcast, please give it a share and also, don't forget to give Walking The Straight Line a follow and make sure you say hi to Kate from us too.

Events like the BVAF make it so easy to find interesting points of view, stories and inspiration all in one tiny little corner of the town. But this little event in this little area has hugely positive influence on so, so many.

In this podcast we cover the open evening of the exhibition at Mrs Jones Gallery in Coleham and we subtly bleed into the opening day of this festival. Held on the side on the river at the end of the Greyfriars Bridge, there was sunshine, music, activities and pants. Pants designed by school children as inspired by their favourite heroes.

'Heroes' was the theme here and we find heroes in many forms in this very podcast. From creative heroes like Christian Ward, Dan Berry, Mike Perkins and Louise Diggle, to community heroes of philanthropist kind, like Stuart & John from the Belle Vue community Action Group and the whole BVAF team. There are heroes to admire throughout this podcast.

Please, please, please take a look at the website for Belle Vue Arts Festival and help support this great event by turning up to the many events laid on over the next coming days. Here is the link - https://www.bellevueartsfestival.co.uk/

I'd love to give you guys a nudge toward the open gardens, the scarecrow trail and the lecture mentioned in this podcast by Mike Marriot about the artist, David Inshaw. This is on the 14th June. There is a booking link right here - https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/belle-vue-community-arts

This event means a great deal to me. I say it a lot in this episode. But I truly had just moved to Shrewsbury when I got invited on the Open Gardens Trail and I really did meet some wonderful people that just solidified my justifications in pushing The Biscuit like I do. In essence, these Salopians really are worth shouting about. - AL

So Alex starts off by speaking to the young farmers of Shropshire, speaking to Mollie from Shropshire Federation of Young Farmers, moving onto Edward from the NFU - National Farmers Union and also the the chief executive of Shropshire & West Midlands Agricultural Society. All in order to find out exactly what this show is all about. So you, the listeners get to find out with this show, everything you need to know about this event.

Then Alex's attention is turned to prize animals, champion bulls and sheep, what's that all about? Well, with some help from some helpful farmers and Gareth (he knows who he is) I can tell you that we solve this mystery right here on the Biscuit and it all made sense in the end.

With a smattering of great conversations with ROAR! MMA, Peter Metcalf (Shrewsbury Proms) and James Hitchin (not John) from Senor Tigre. This Podcast really does have an awful lot of great, informative content.

Thanks so much to Rhea Alton for inviting me along to the show it was a real eye opener. I will absolutely be back for next year's offering, hopefully at a more Biscuity capacity. I loved this!

LOOPFEST is an event that takes place on Saturday 8th July across 25 different venues, offering entertainment from 125 different acts. All of this needs to be organised to run smoothly across one day and the logistics sound intense. However, Jamie has a plan and talks about how it is all going to work.

When it some to grassroots music, listeners of this show will know that I am a firm supporter of the promotion and welcoming of the local stuff. An event like LOOPFEST offers local musicians a chance to shine. The local economy gets a boost, festival goers get the good vibes and culture blossoms. We will help LOOPFEST with whatever we can.

If you'd like to find out more about LOOPFEST hit up their website at https://loopfest.co.uk/

Our guest today is Helen Pritchard, who unfortunately lost her son Stephen to suicide in early January 2020, just one week after his 24th Birthday. To bear with the loss of a child is unthinkable and the grief attached to such a tragic event can be unbearable. Helen though, is sharing her journey with you today.

Helen discusses how she battled with the many emotions attached to grief at first, but is managing to approach things at a different angle. Setting herself the challenge of scaling 24 Peaks in the Lake District over two days to raise money for this great charity and help raise as much awareness about mental health as she can. Thanks to her two friends Sarah and Lindsay too.

In this episode you will hear about the importance of setting a challenge like this for Helen, how imperative it is to access the mental health services around you and how allowing yourself to grieve in the way that suits you best in the better way to deal with things.

Helen's challenge takes place on the 23rd and 24th August and we, as a show, encourage you to please donate what you can to this immense challenge. Here is the link to the Just Giving page attached - https://www.justgiving.com/page/helen-pritchard-1680179430105?utm_source=copyLink&utm_medium=one_page&utm_content=page/helen-pritchard-1680179430105&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=db7c412048da43ffb79c225939bf6bc1

If you are not feeling the best version of you and are worried about lengthy waiting times, are waiting to undergo therapy or would just like to talk about your mental health please contact Shropshire Mental Health Support on 01743 368647.

Alternatively you can try:

Samaritans: 116123

Papyrus Suicide Prevention: 0800 0684141

Access Team: 0808 1964501

To wrap things up at DRAWN 2023 we thought it was a great idea to sit down with our good friend Charlie Adlard, co-creator of The Walking Dead, comic-book royalty and one of the most iconic UK artists, y'know that guy.

With a little help from Leon, Cherie Jerrard and Pearl, Alex gets deep into conversation about, well, everything really. We wrote a list and yeah, they pretty much covered everything in the history of things, and a little bit of art talk at the end.

However, the conversations about horror movies, wild festivals and whether pineapple belongs on pizza are all a lot of fun. Plus, what they discussed about art at the end, is advice that is so poignant Alex isolated it for a soundbite. It was that good.

The point of this episode is, it doesn't matter how big an artist can get. It doesn't matter how many items Charlie has sold over time, he is just as down to earth as anybody and this conversation reflects that. It is the things that move around us that makes us tick the way we do. So it is important to explore what people see around them. This episode is that, in regards to Charlie Adlard.

Thanks of course to Charlie for this, to my trusty co-hosts Leon, Pearl and Cherie Jerrard too! This year's DRAWN was fantastic, I loved our little corner of the warehouse, it was a fun place to be and we really enjoyed speaking to all of you. Thanks everyone! - AL

Alex and Leon return for Day Two of DRAWN at the Flaxmill in Shrewsbury. They had a room full of Shropshire's finest artists and a PORTABLE MICROPHONE you know, so they could get about and speak to people! The task of the day was doing this all before the batteries ran out so the best way to do this was with a good ole Biscuit-run. Hit record, walk and talk and don't stop until you get great content.

Alex and Leon spoke to some old friends like Gisela Robinson, Saffron Russell, the guys from Dungarees and Squeegees, Morgan Bird from MVK Paints and the Good Egg Bakery, we made some new friends too along the way.

The themes of the day were a continuation of the Question relay and Leon has an IMPORTANT question for everybody - "Does pineapple belong on pizza?" This question got some really controversial answers!

This was a great day, it was much better being able to move freely about the warehouse and speak to people at their stalls. The guerrilla style of the Biscuit-runs really added something nice to this one. Thanks to everyone that spoke to us, the organisers and Leon too, you did a great job buddy - AL

Alex and 'Bigger-Mini Biscuit' Leon are here to cover two days of DRAWN 2023. It has become a welcome tradition for The Biscuit to feature at this event and it was a huge privilege to speak to so many wonderful creatives.

Starting off with DJ Raggs, what a guy he is. Started DJing in his 70's and is now absolutely smashing it. Gary Drew, of course we HAD to speak to him, he's one of our favourites. Mike Perkins came along to say howdy, that's always nice! Zoe of Zoenso fame came by to chat about her wonderful art. Luke Crump shared some brilliant wisdom and we spoke to the truly lovely Tat Effby the Caketoonist herself.

This is just Day One after this is finished move on to Day Two.

Thanks to everyone who spoke to us, to Leon for being an amazing co-host and of course Cherie, Paul, Pearl and Tat who were brilliant all weekend. This was great...truly! - AL

Alex speaks to coaches Adam, Jess and Marv about the roles that they play at Shrewsbury Up and Comers u11 Girls. Women's football is on the rise and rise at the moment which is pretty awesome. But to solidify the fantastic work led by the iconic success of the Lionesses, it is important to build a solid foundation for the next generation of women footballers. That is what Marv, Adam and Jess are doing here (amongst many fantastic coaches across the country too).

Alex speaks to some of the parents to find out the positive impact of their children being part of a team, as well as the encouragement of being coached regularly.

Finally and most importantly, Alex spoke to some of the girls about their experiences at the team. Believe me when I say, these girls blew my mind. Some of the answers and comments that they gave had the maturity and wisdom that will take them far in life - AL

If you have a young one that you'd like to bring along to training or if you'd like to help out with a bit of coaching, please email Marv at girlsdevelopment.upandcomersfc@gmail.com

A life coach is a great person to have around when you need to make some positive changes. Today's guest Mandy Taylor is a life coach who is at the beginning of a career where she is determined to inspire her clients to being much more fulfilled in life.

Mandy is holding a workshop about Imposter Syndrome to help give participants the tools they need to defeat their own mind-goblins. After speaking to Mandy, it is obvious that there is an awful lot to be learned.

The event is taking place on May 11th at The Courtyard Collective which juts off Butcher Row in Shrewsbury. Here is a link for you all, take a look and book your ticket now - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/imposter-syndrome-workshop-tickets-604968937377?fbclid=IwAR1EvSeIsY17VMJKURFJ7Y_PP8vIa3ercLRHzMKEuYfdu_rGaP_cSuitmN4

Thanks so much Mandy this was awesome, good luck with the workshop and going forward with a career where you help people change their lives. This was great!!

Well, today on the Biscuit Alex and verity are joined by Mary Perry, a survivor of breast cancer who is here to talk to us about her journey in a really relaxed, casual way. This episode felt so natural, that the guys forgot that they were recording a podcast!

Talking to Mary and Verity, Alex discovers the do's and don'ts of talking to someone about their cancer and in all reality, the general consensus (in this room) was that we should just...talk about it. Verity says 'Ok, there's an elephant in the room, let's talk about it.'

After facing cancer in her own journey, Mary turned her focus to helping charities that matter when it comes to cancer treatment. We are of course talking about Lingen Davies. Mary organised a 'Tractor Run' in Shropshire last year that went on to raise over £5,500!

In this episode you will find out what has driven Mary, verity and actually a lot of cancer survivors to go out and give something back after treatment. Plus you will find out what a tractor run is!

I cannot express how great this podcast is! This is by far the most natural interview (if you can call it one) that we have done for a very long time. So come, take a listen and I hope you enjoy the show, Mary is fantastic! - AL

The goal today is to investigate the connection between the supporters and the club, especially as a huge effort has been made by Steve Cotterill's side to build a strong, symbiotic relationship between one another.

Alex speaks to event organisers Roger and Mike, Shrewsbury Town manager Steve Cotterill and club captain Luke Leahy about their thoughts on the club/supporter connection.

We also hear from a group of supporters about their love for the club over the last 50 years or more and Salop For All representative Helen Hall.

What a magical evening, speaking to some pretty remarkable people. Thanks to everyone who spoke to me. Whether we had the mic with us or not it would have been a brilliant night. Getting to put this together was a huge bonus. Thanks Roger, Mike and the media team from Shrewsbury Town FC too. -AL

We start off by discussing Rhian's own adventures and the lessons she has learned along the way. Travelling is something that envelops us all in a mixture of emotions and may give us multiple reasons to have a contingency plan ready. But how do you know what to plan?

How does one become sustainable while travelling, what skills would they have to acquire and what are some of the myths that exist?

Well Rhian is here to answer your questions, but there is much more to learn. Whether you are about to embark on an adventure yourself or have a young person in your life that is about to go travelling on a gap year, Rhian's seminars have answers.

Pop on over to the Solo Travel Seminars Facebook page to find out how to book on. Here is the link - https://www.facebook.com/solotravelseminars

EVENTS:

29th - 30th April - Facebook page for details: https://www.facebook.com/DRAWNCollective

12th May - An Evening with the Dirty Rockin Scoundrels ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1

We have a very cool show for you today. Featuring guest co-host, all the way from Australia, Rich Carter. Rich has been a close friend of The Biscuit from the very beginning and AL was super pleased to have him by his side to speak to todays guest.

Author Kate Mclanachan sits with Alex and Rich to discuss her book "The Workhouse Almanac: A Story of Shrewsbury." A story that mixes in all of the ingredients that makes a book brilliant, especially if you're from Shropshire and/or have an understanding of mental health treatment through the ages.

We get to know Kate properly of course, hearing about her many years of working in the mental health field in Shelton Hospital (remember that place?) This was a discussion that did not feel like a podcast at all, so eavesdrop and tune in as we find out about this stunning author.

The blurb at the back starts with: 'The Workhouse loomed impressively over the town, a majestic but formidable building that would become the prestigious Shrewsbury School.

An institution and Asylum for destitute paupers, lunatics and vagrants, its past secrets and atrocities locked away behind closed doors' - This is a story that features locations in Shrewsbury, history, the horrors of old aged mental health treatment in a story that will grip and intrigue you.

The Challenge

Ok so we have a challenge for you. We want to see where in the world people may buy a copy of Kate's book. So here's what I want you to do. Buy a copy from Amazon and leave a review with the quote "by the power of the Biscuit" at the bottom. We will check with Kate in a few weeks to see where in the world her book has travelled to. Here's the link for the book: https://amzn.eu/d/eKRXaW4

Alex and Verity are joined by Bestival founder and world famous DJ, Rob Da Bank. There is not much that isn't covered in this interview.

Starting off with how does one become a world famous DJ? How was life at BBC Radio One and how far do those relationships go? What are some of Rob's most memorable performances (both good and bad).

Of course it is important to talk about the conception of Bestival, how just the right ingredients are blended together to make a perfect festival and why Shropshire/Staffordshire is the perfect spot for such an event.

The Shrewsbury Biscuit will be at Camp Bestival. Verity will be there with mics and cameras to document such a fun event. Alex and Rob set out a series of missions for Verity to complete while she is there.

If you need to be hooked up with a link for tickets for Camp Bestival it is right here. From the briefing we have here from Rob Da Bank himself, it sounds like it's going to be an epic weekend. Check it out - https://shropshire.campbestival.net/tickets/buy-tickets

We get a recap of Marcus' rise to fame, his story is astonishing, especially for a self-taught chef. How does someone without a fancy culinary education get on the Telly?

The guys take a look at your comments from Facebook about those simple dishes that we believe we're the best at making. For example, Alex thinks he makes the best cheese on toast in the world and he may have challenged Marcus a cheese on toast-off!

This episode takes a look into the life of a chef who's success stemmed from a place of survival. Now Marcus shares his knowledge via the Brompton Cookery School and also inspires with his fantastic Instagram videos.

An Evening with The Dirty Rockin' Scoundrels

As mentioned at the beginning of this episode here is the link to buy tickets to the Evening with the Dirty Rockin' Scoundrels charity event on the 13th May at Shrewsbury High School. Get a babysitter in, get a ticket and treat yourself to a good night out - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete&keep_tld=1

The mission for today is to understand what Shrewsbury Ark offers in way of support and also to open up a channel to its users.

Speaking to Chair of Trustees Emily Bell, we find out about the day to day running of The Ark and the challenges that met are too. Luckily there were representatives of the Hepatitis C Trust at the Ark too. Andy and Jamie were there testing, advising and offering treatment to those who needed it. Alex and Katie had a fascinating discussion about their work.

We also had a chat with 2 of The Ark's users. In a bid to get an insight to their lives and truly understand their hardships. What has led them to be in the situation they find themselves in? How do they get by? What daily challenges are met on the streets? And how much of a lifeline are places like The Shrewsbury Ark?

This is the start of an on-going project that we have planned to give Shrewsbury's homeless community a voice. This was an ice-breaker, there will be more to come.

An Evening with The Dirty Rockin' Scoundrels

As mentioned at the beginning of this episode here is the link to buy tickets to the Evening with the Dirty Rockin' Scoundrels charity event on the 13th May at Shrewsbury High School. Get a babysitter in, get a ticket and treat yourself to a good night out - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete&keep_tld=1

Alex is not at his er...best today so it's a good job he has a brilliant co-host and guest to prop him up. From the very beginning, blanking on the name of not just a guest, but a genuine friend that he's about to speak to. The needle definitely scratched the vinyl on that one.

Nonetheless this episode is fantastic covering all things Shrewsbury Town FC, The Battle of Shrewsbury and the wonderful world of wargames.

Since we last spoke to Tom, Shrewsbury Wargames Society have moved to a brand new location and they invite you all to come and give this fantastic hobby a go. The new place is at Pimley Manor Barn, just off Sundorne Rd. For all of the information you may need the website is right here - https://www.shrewsburywargamesociety.org.uk/

If you're looking for something new, trying to make new friends, whether you have experience in Wargames/Tabletop RPGs or are a complete novice, Shrewsbury Wargames Society will welcome you in.

Thanks for coming back on the show Tom you are always fantastic to chat to. See you on block 9! - AL

This is a great time to be discussing this, as Verity is getting ready to run the London Marathon too, raising money for Ovacome. A charity aimed at support those linked to treatment for ovarian cancer.

So, as AL is not in the know-how of how these things are organised, it's the perfect time to discuss. How does one get into the London Marathon? How are the charitable thresholds met? and exactly how gruelling is a marathon?

One way to create funding for a marathon runner's chosen charity is to create an event. Kate is going BIG with an Evening With The Dirty Rockin Scoundrels at Shrewsbury High School on the 13th May. Where there will be stunning music from one of the biggest band in the Midlands, a Q&A hosted by AL himself and as Kate say "a cheap bar"

Tickets are only a tenner and it is a must see event, so here is the link. Treat yourselves to a great, cheap, evening of entertainment and raise money for a great charity. See you there!

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-with-the-dirty-rockin-scoundrels-tickets-526327719377?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1

Author, Stephen Anthony Brotherton joins us on The Biscuit to talk about his new book 'Watching The Wheels' which is a collection of short stories that will grip you from the first page.

We need to discuss the process of writing short stories that can grip the reader from the offset and build a universe in a short space of time. What research goes into building up a character, a scene, a plot and narrative? Where in life does inspiration come from? How did Stephen choose which stories make it into the book and a cliché one, are the characters based on real-life people?

It is a great thing to be able to showcase great, local talent in the world of literature and it was a real treat sitting down with Stephen and his partner Tracey. If you'd like to support a local, Shropshire author and pick up a great read please look for 'Watching the Wheel' in all good local bookstores or visit Amazon now and pick up your copy: https://amzn.eu/d/1qm884a

The evening was held at The Flaxmill Maltings and it was an evening filled with lots of introductions to some truly fantastic people. We meet SYST Chief Executive Richard Nuttall, Shropshire High Sheriff Selina Graham, SYST Marketing Consultant Jon Gidney and Lewis.

Lewis found SYST 13 months ago and has come on in leaps and bounds since he joined and we hear his story. We also hear the speeches that were given during the evening. The speeches were wonderful and the contents were too good not to share however...the bane of all good audio creators air-conditioning had a bad impact on the audio.

I had to find a way to quarantine the audio inside this podcast as a way of us including the wonderful contents within them. So if you're listening to The Biscuit for the first time please don't judge us on the quality. But please listen to them as they offer a true image of the importance of SYST not just for future potentials like Lewis but for the creators like Richard.

Thanks for listening as always - AL

Suzy has a gym in Radbrook and her own company called Girls Get Lean where she helps coach women to be the best versions of themselves, no matter what hurdles life can throw at them. Girls Get Lean has a reach of hundreds, thousands of women all over the world.

There honestly couldn't be a more deserving person of the title 'champion' and this episode will show you exactly why. I honestly feel like this episode will go on to help lots of people. Just by us making it, I was inspired to start the gym and I'm doing so well and I know Verity took a lot out of this too. Try not to be inspired by this one I dare you...

Part One: Alex and his family attended an international buffet at Radbrook Community Centre. This event featured 22 countries who brought along food to share with members of the community. Alex spoke to organiser Kate, participants from the different nations that they represented, the Mayor of Shrewsbury Elisabeth Roberts, members of the PCSO and the police. This was fun.

Part Two: Alex and Verity sit down with Vince Dovey and Neville Street who are representing their company 1st & Bowery. It seems that every time Vince comes on the show, he has created something new to help protect people. This time Vince and Neville have created a product that can not only help with drink spike detection, but also help keep a database of where detections are discovered.

But Shrewsbury has is a "purple patch" when it comes to the town's nightlife, with what Vince calls a nice, safe reputation. So why do we need tech like this in a town like Shrewsbury? Well this is discussed at depth.

This product partners up drink test strips and tech in a way that is unique, which makes Vince and Neville pioneers. It seems like not only is Shrewsbury the birthplace for this product, but the town would be the perfect place for it to be rolled out. Alberts Shed is onboard but more clubs and bars are needed to really test this product out. If you would like to find out more please visit the 1st and Bowery website - https://1standbowery.co.uk/

It is really hard to pinpoint what we did and didn't talk about in this episode. I think we made a good go of covering everything. Most importantly though, we did talk about the music of TrippleJayy and the amazing creative scene here in Shrewsbury. Things are changing all the time in Shrewsbury especially when it comes to the arts and it is collaborative efforts of the likes of Marcus, TrippleJayy and the people they've met along the way that really help to illustrate this.

This episode includes a live performance of one of TrippleJayy's tracks from his latest LP which isn't even out yet. So we get live music and an exclusive :)

I think it is safe to say that we will be doing this again some time, as this was such a good feeling episode. I think you will all agree.

Here are some link for you guys:

TrippleJayy insta: https://www.instagram.com/tripplejayy/

Ice Eye Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iceeyemedia/

The guys talked about their history playing together and how they came to be and well...the normal things you'd expect to hear a band to talk about. What you wouldn't expect them to talk about is...

Their love for Ainsley Harriot, the torture of Wonderwall, the ballads of lockdown and yes of course, who is the diva of the group.

This is a great opportunity to talk about the local music scene, how a group can stand out in a place like Shrewsbury and what music inspires us all.

This episode also includes an acoustic of Chasing Mallory's new single - "Let The Next One Know"

This great episode is a collection of interviews that were both collected with our portable mic and from the studio that was set up at Telford International Centre for the 2 days that they were there.

During day 2 we spoke to: Lingen Davies, the Bee Lady, The Scouts, Shrewsbury Food Hub (where we helped them organise their fridge), the girls from MD School of Performing Arts, Small Furry Animals (a young but brilliant band) and finished off with a great chat with Shropshire Festivals boss, Beth Heath.

Verity also took the mic around and spoke to some of the festival goers and the interviews are super cute, thanks to everyone that stopped and spoke to her.

A huge thank you to the team from Shropshire Festivals for giving us a license to come out, be a part of this, and many other fantastic events. No one can throw a party like you guys and we love being invited :)

This episode features interviews with:

Ben & Vicky from Moogies Media, Mr Stroodle, Josephine from Diddy Diners, Fe from Shropshire Pickle Ball, Harry & Alice from Root Film, The Creation Station, The Stem (with engineer of the future, Jess), Caz features on the podcast for the first time ever while speaking to little Freddy, Mini-Biscuit speaks to his school friend, a genuinely brilliant conversation with the folks from Tot Time and Emma from Pop Up Playtime.

Thanks so much to Shropshire Festivals for letting us come along and spending the day chatting with so many great people. It is what we love to do. Please follow this episode up with Day Two of Shropshire Kids Festival 2023

Hans is a skydiving instructor and BASE jumping is something that Hans and his friends do for fun. But it's not all just fun and games. There is a lot of planning that takes place before a jump can take place. There are rules that Hans likes to follow when he's out BASE jumping just in-case things go wrong and sometimes they do...Hans gets into that too.

Hans is part of a collaborative group of UK professionals who are doing some amazing things on social media. Follow "Mountain Man Base" on Instagram and see for yourself - https://www.instagram.com/mountainmanbase/

This is what podcasts are made for. Speaking to people who live completely different lives and achieve things that others can't. Hans has an incredible skillset and it really was great speaking to him about his experiences. I think it goes without saying that BASE jumping is for the professionals and not to be tried at home. There is a concise planning procedure that takes place before every jump.

Alex and Verity are armed with a mic and they get a first-hand look at the positive effects Becky has had on the people that she has worked with. Lilith has genuinely changed people's lives.

The speeches in particular at the end are extremely powerful. Make sure you listen to the speech made by Connie. Her journey is fascinating and truly shows you what it means to people to be empowered to embrace their beauty and strength as a human-being.

Thanks for the invite to this wonderful evening, we had such a great time speaking to the guests, looking at the beautiful art on the walls and being surrounded by so many transformed souls who have all been on a terrific journey - Alex

Here are a few links for you guys to check out:-

Born Stokie - https://www.instagram.com/bornstokie/

Alex McCarthy - https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching/

Highly Flammable - https://www.instagram.com/highlyflammable.studio/

Lilith - https://www.instagram.com/lilith_bodypositivephotography/

Simon joins us on the show today to talk about his new book called "Remembering The Holocaust and the Impact on Societies Today" which of course offers a difficult, but important point of discussion. Having read this book from cover to cover Alex absorbed it all on a molecular lever. The book talks about how certain nations dealt with the displacement and threat that was made against the Jewish community by the Nazis in World War 2.

A lot of the language, behaviour and alarm presented by worldwide communities (show by Simon with extensive referencing and evidence) rings an eerie bell with today's society. This leaves Alex with many questions for Simon. One of the questions being "Are humans naturally evil?"

I appreciate that this may a difficult topic for some, but it is important for us to learn about these things so we can move forward, with lessons we have learned from the past. Simon is a stunning guest and I'm always in awe speaking to him. Regardless of the subject, I hope you enjoy this episode. I will leave a link for the book here, get yourself a copy and help a local author - Alex https://www.amazon.co.uk/Remembering-Holocaust-Impact-Societies-Today/dp/1399012096

We got interviews with Mark himself, musician Andy Mills, Magic Martin and more.

Chords Crush Cancer is an event that features live music, magic, caricatures and great entertainment for those attending at The Inn on the Green in Radbrook, Shrewsbury. But the main focus is a huge raffle and charity auction with prizes that you can't get just anywhere.

All proceeds are going to Lingen Davies Cancer Fund (who you know we love)

You can still support the event, go to their Just Giving Page right here https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chordscrushcancer7 and please give what you can.

Joe is a very experienced author, having written lots of autobiographies for some of the biggest bands in the world, amongst many great things. He has a lot of Knowledge to pass on to help writers develop their projects and their abilities.

The Writers Lab created a very special book together called "Where We Are" which features stories and poems from 19 different writers. All of whom are a part of the Lab. The book is available at The Raven Book Shop and comes highly recommended.

PRE-SHOW RAMBLE - Alex and Verity attended the Shropshire in Business meet up hosted by Alex McCarthy at Highly Flammable. This was a relaxed setting where owners of businesses can meet up and take in advice from Alex, share ideas and learn from one another too. We captured some audio from that evening just so we could share it with you guys. Thanks for the invite Alex :)

AL is in the town square speaking to members of Shropshire Supports Refugees and Stand Up To Racism. These guys were set up to have healthy discussions about the situations across the globe, positive ways people are trying to help and drum up further support for the effort.

We speak to founder of Shropshire Supports Refugees Amanda Jones and fellow supporters. These people have contributed so much, offering services to better the lives of the people who have fled literal war zones for safety here in Shrewsbury. From being in a position to advocate for these survivors, to building language and cultural bridges which is seen as a truly priceless resource when communicating with families. We have some really insightful discussions within this podcast.

There are so many ways we can all help out. By visiting the Shropshire Supports Refugees website you can find out all the information you need, here's the link - https://www.shropshiresupportsrefugees.org/

We talked about how creative people can measure their own success in a healthy way and how things got started for a talented photographer in Becky, a highly respected filmmaker in Aaron and a budding podcaster in Alex. What equipment we all started with, where our minds were back then and how things are going now.

Lilith Body Positive Photography, Becky's company, is something truly special. It is something that is part of a very important movement that is clawing back self pride when it comes to body positivity. Especially in this airbrush/Instagram era we live in.

Becky is throwing a "Lilith Empowerment Gallery" at Highly Flammable Studios on the 11th February. This is an opportunity to see some of the amazing art that Becky has curated from her adventures, photographing women in their most beautiful, empowering moments. The tickets are £27.54 but that includes a portrait, a look at art that you won't see anywhere else and an opportunity to mingle with artists and Becky herself. The link for the event is right here - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lilith-empowerment-gallery-tickets-439629643097?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete

We first featured Mark on The Biscuit when he was organising Chords Crush 3 all those years ago. Now Mark is embracing another great event with what he says is an auction with prizes of the likes he has never seen.

So what is Chords Crush Cancer? It is an evening of live music, auctions and great entertainment, held at The Inn On The Green in Radbrook, Shrewsbury. All of the proceeds of the auction go to Lingen Davies, which makes the evening all that more impressive.

We play "The Most Important Questions in the World" for the first time where we ask our guest questions that have been submitted by friends of the show.

I am so proud of Mark for keeping this event, that means so much him, alive for so long. He has a drive an determination that has to be admired. We will be at the event with a camera and mics and a just can't wait. The event takes place at The Inn On The Green on Saturday 4th February and it's free. All are welcome, see you there!

A new show format, some new changes to come and a new co-host. 2023 is going to be a transformative year for this show for sure. But first, lets get to know Verity and then discuss the one thing everyone tends to talk about in January...New Year's resolutions. Did you make one? We did and it's a point worth delving into.

We are so looking forward to this new year, be have so much to look forward to and I am so happy to have Verity with us for the ride. This is going to be fun! - AL

Athella is a being from Sirius B and has never been in a human form before. She is here because humans now need direct, immediate intervention and healing.

Athella came into Christina’s life in 2015 while she was in deep hypnosis during an epic past-life regression. She told Christina her life purpose had been revealed and the time had come to start guiding people to find their true nature. Christina opened her whole self to Athella so she could speak through her to deliver healing and guidance to those in need.

Alex Whiteley talks to Christina and Athella to find out more and maybe get some tips to help him tap back into his own spirituality which he seems to be lacking in.

This episode features Larry Carlson who has been working in the care industry for 40 years, since he was known as the "boy administrator"

Larry worked his way up to become the President and CEO of United Methodist Communities who have assisted living facilities all across New Jersey, US.

Larry wants to revolutionise the way residents who suffer from Alzheimer's and Dementia by creating a facility ( known in the US as a tapestry) that has plenty of space, freedom of movement and opportunities to keep well needed routines and ways of life intact.

The name of this new facility is: Avandell

Larry was inspired by The Hogeweyk Dementia Village in The Netherlands and is building his own facility that mirrors a lot of the practices he'd witnessed there.

Care for our elderly and vulnerable is something that offers universal problems, especially when it comes to our emotions. Conversing with Larry showed me that no matter where we are in the world, we will all face one of life's most important questions. How do we care for our loved ones in their later lives?

Well, things are changing and Larry is the face of that change.

Take a look here at the UMC website, to get a better idea of what Avandell will look like. https://umcommunities.org/avandell/

The first part of the show is a rundown of all of the highlights, exciting developments and hurdles that Rocking Horse Media have had to face.

The show is joined by Karen herself, actress Kate Coldron who talks about how she has been developing the character of Karen since first winning the role earlier in the year.

It has been an incredible year working with the folks at Rocking Horse. I've made so many friends, learned so much and created some amazing content on the way. It has been a pleasure to see things develop the way they have and I cannot wait to see what 2023 brings.

AL is first joined by 3 year 5 pupils Evelyn, Sophia and Rosa who discuss the importance of spreading Christmas cheer through fun media projects.

After the kids go back to class, it is time for AL to speak to members of the Coleham staff. Mr Williams, Mrs Howson and Miss Othen who join in with the discussion. They talk about how important it is to use technology to communicate with the school children, parents and the local community.

Have you seen this year's latest Christmas music video? Well a lot of hard work has gone into making it and it 100% deserves to be viewed, shared and support given to the staff for producing it. Here is the link to the video - https://youtu.be/LShd3FR-8lk Take a listen to this podcast and then why not treat yourself by watching this fun video.

At the end of this podcast I thanked all of Coleham staff for keeping things moving during the pandemic. They were certainly difficult times for many. But the school kept a presence via media and kept education rolling out whether it be virtual lessons or even hybrid classes. As a parent of a pupil at this wonderful school I can tell you that the appreciation for everything the staff offered goes beyond anything during those difficult times. Videos like this Christmas video are a by-product of those times and it really does offer hope and what I consider a virtual arm around the shoulder. Thank you for everything Coleham school and all of the teachers out there who worked valiantly and continue to do so week in, week out. - AL

This episode is split into 2 parts.

Part one: AL sits down with Netley Hall owner Harrison Poole and Chris Burt, a chef who needs no introduction in many a-kitchen across the county. Chris (along with Liam Tinsley) was tasked with putting together a menu that would welcome everyone to Netley Hall for a food experience they wouldn't forget. This task was met with a couple of considerations. Create homely traditional food and give it a sophisticated twist. Which they have done to perfection. We discuss what it has taken to get to this point.

Part two: Liam very kindly prepared AL a beautifully cooked steak along with chips. May sound like a typical dish you could order anywhere, but there is clever twist to the meal that was completely unexpected. For this part we do a "taste-along." AL tastes this wonderful food along with a desert like none he has ever tasted before, while talking to Liam about how life has been at Netley Hall since he and Chris took over.

I could sit here and write a full 3 page article about the time I spent at Netley Hall because it was just a marvellous day. This podcast was an absolute pleasure to put together (despite the heat fuelled blunder at the top) Liam you're a wonderful friend and I cannot thank you enough for this!

By the way, we filmed a really good vlog to accompany this episode. It will be released on our YouTube channel from 14/12/2022 - check it out!

AL took a mic to the Shropshire Handmade & Creative event at Salop Leisure, Shrewsbury. Having spoken to Carrie Hughes about it a few episodes ago, we thought we'd come and take a walk around. There were so many creators of such a huge variety of things, the conversations were there for the taking.

Follow AL as he walks around this fantastic and welcoming event. Things go well too, that is until AL's wife gets distracted by the caravans!

Featured on this episode are 11 local creators including Pom Pom Galore, Shezzabean Arts, Mamas Cottage Mushrooms, Toot Sweets, English Drinks Company, Mukaase Food, Beeclay, Glass & Ceramics by Helen, 50 Shades of Cheesecake, Rosie Whitehead, Flora and Thread and we finish off with a chat with organiser Carrie Hughes.

This was fun and I really enjoyed the diversity in the subjects we covered in this. Thank you to everyone who spoke to me, especially those who were nervous! You guys rock!

We are joined by Harry Potter and Dr Who actor Simon Fisher-Becker who is of course an important part of what is happening at Rocking Horse Media. He will be discussing the documentary that he is making called Bigger on the Inside. This documentary is going to investigate the systemic prejudice in the film and TV industry and show that whether an actor has a disability, or needs special arrangements to do their job, they are just as important as everyone else.

We are also joined by Luke Allen who is here to talk about what he's been up to as well as getting us up to date with "Penny For Your Thoughts" a project he is working on with Anna redding.

Last but in no way means least we have Amy Jude. A national award winning former student of Derwen College who won everyone over at an acting workshop and claimed a role for Henry House on the spot. Amy is incredible and at one point in the episode says something so poignant and inspiring, it stops everyone in their tracks.

The moral of this episode it that everyone, EVERYONE deserves a chance and should absolutely be treated fairly.

Stephen is an ex military man who came out of the forces without the preparation he needed for civilian life. This amongst many other factors gave Stephen the motivation to starting a coaching company that can help others to always be prepared.

This is a different approach to coaching than we've seen recently on The Biscuit but that's not to say it isn't effective. Some people need that assertive approach, for whatever reasons it works for a lot of people. Although Stephen is a sincere, understanding and humble guy he strives to get people to where they want to be.

This is Stephen's story.

Ft comments read from listeners from Facebook.

Here we have a collection of interviews with some of Shropshire's finest creators with a Christmas twist. We speak to some old friends and make some new ones too. Timmy has 2 important questions to ask at the end of each chat.

1. What is your favourite Christmas film?
2. If you could have ANYTHING for Christmas what would you have?

We get some very interesting answers.

There is a talk around 30 minutes in with artist and Shrewsbury High School teacher James Millichap and the famous Mike Perkins about the evolution of young artists which AL particularly enjoyed.

Thank you to everyone who spoke to me, we had a great time mooching around this well planned creators market. Shout out to Cherie for a job absolutely well done!

We speak to some new people and some good old friends like Darren from Gindifferent, Liam Tinsley and of course the wonderful team at Lingen Davies.

Anna Williams guides AL around the Abbey through the stunning ambience, supplied by The Ronnies who were performing in the background. Anna introduces AL to some important figures in the Chronicles of Lingen Davies.

This a candid bit of audio, no plan, just a collection of conversations with lovely people on a lovely evening. Thanks Lingen Davies for the invite and for all that you do! - AL

Starting off, we speak to director Derek and Neville Street who was the stage manager. AL then took part in some voice warm-ups with the cast which left him feeling nostalgic after a very smooth rendition of Kumala Vista.

AL then speaks to cast members Ben, Tom and Dave who talk us through the play and how this particular play is tackled technically. This play is based on the outside view of a friendship between 3 guys who are debating a white painting on a white background. With huge chunks of dialogue and such a small cast the pressure is really on to nail their lines and performances.

Finally AL catches up with a member of the audience to discuss their thoughts on the ART.

I want to say a huge thank you to Neville Street for setting all of this up, giving me a lift to the theatre and even gifting me a really cool Minnesota Vikings hat! Also, to Derek and the members of the cast who spoke to me. This audio is amazing and I took so much from it. The was fantastic and you guys smashed it out of the park!

Sat in Brad's cosy changing room in the business end of Theatre Severn AL spent a bit of time getting to know this industrious name in theatre. We here in Shrewsbury may know Brad Fitt as the fantastically hilarious dame who has rocked the town's panto scene for over 10 years now, but there is so much more for us to learn.

From a young age Brad was gripped by theatre and has had a fantastic career in many, many roles throughout the industry. AL was in awe of how many roles Brad has had in the industry. From stage management, writing, directing, producer roles and of course acting in Theatre Severn's annual panto.

To perfectly portray a dame is a real art and we are lucky to be in the presence of one of the best. Brad shares his story. Thanks so much for being sweet and generous with your time Brad, this was fantastic. Don't be a stranger - AL

AL bumped into a market stall at Shrewsbury's outdoor market called Pueblo Artisan Food and Arts. He was drawn in by the empanadas, knowing his Colombian wife would love the food on offer. An idea for an episode where we can discover the food of South America lit up like a light bulb.

So AL is joined by Franco, owner of Pueblo Artisan Food for today's episode. Franco is from Argentina and his wife is British. During lockdown in Argentina Franco was looking for a good place to set up his business here in the UK. He was reading a book about Charles Darwin at the time. It was here that he learned about the town of Shrewsbury.

Now Pueblo is a reality, offering traditional Argentinian food made from ingredients found here in Shropshire. This episode dives into the importance of getting the food just right, what it means to have access to this food for the South American community here in Shropshire and how far back these traditions go.

Franco is a great guy and I really enjoyed chatting to him about how food can build bridges between people. South American food is amazing and I am so glad that this cuisine is being represented in such a wholesome way.

What is Christmas now though? What does it mean a) after a pandemic rewired our brains and b) now that a lot more people are struggling financially? Well AL talks to Carrie about the sentimentality of Christmas and how sometimes the right little gifts can go a long way in showing someone how much you care.

So it makes sense to put a lot of thought into a gift nowadays and what better place to find that special gift than the Shropshire Festive Gift Fair? There are 2 events for you to enjoy.

Shropshire Handmade & Creative Christmas Fair - 3rd/4th December at Salop Leisure and Shropshire Festive Gift Market - 10th/11th December at St Mary's. Why not pop on over to the Pink Pebble Website and find out everything you need to know - https://www.pinkpebbleevents.co.uk/

Verity Jane joined AL on Pod Aid to talk about her own journey through cancer treatments and recover. Despite the terrible ordeal Verity and her family went through, she remains a strong advocate for all affected by cancer.

Loren Stokes joins us to talk about how her life got turned upside down when she had to have a laryngectomy because a tumour had grown from her salivary glands and down into her neck. This means Loren has to press a valve on her throat to talk, effectively having to hold her breath while she speaks. Despite still having complications with her health Loren is a driving force against cancer.

We are here to talk about the shared experiences that survivors have when it comes to treatment and how even in the darkest of times comfort can be found in the most unexpected places.

Loren is now part of Stand Up To Cancer, which means she will have an opportunity to play a large role in passing that strength of hers onto others.

I believe I can converse about anything, but I couldn't have done this episode without Verity. To be able to sit back and watch Verity and Loren bond over something as brutal as cancer treatment goes to show how important communication is in circumstances like this. I am grateful to both Loren and Verity for this and I hope it does some good with whoever this audio finds. - AL

The best in any business has to adapt to survive, the travel industry got hit hard during the pandemic, yet there are those who are still here. Peakes celebrated their 30th year anniversary by inviting some of their travel agents to come along to a gathering in St Mary's Church and AL got to speak to them.

We talk about 2 types of cruises that offer different experiences, the beauties of Florence in Italy, the majestic South East Asia and even Antarctica.

We also speak the Peakes' Managing Director Claire Moore about how the company had to adapt to survive and won awards because of their efforts, Beth Heath from Shropshire Festivals who facilitated the event (who are also award winning) and Marg Lloyd, a friend who we spoke to years ago at Shrewsbury Prison.

The companies featured in this episode are: Silver Sea, Star Clippers, Typically Holidays, Latin Routes/Polar Routes and Trans Indus LTD.

I learned so much from this event and I get so passionate talking about travel and culture. So much so, it's given me the itch to book a trip myself, warning this podcast may have the same effect on you too! -AL

Regular listeners to the show may be able to cast their minds back to last year. We covered this same event but the conditions were much, much different. It was rainy, the big screen didn't work and there was a power cut on stage so half of the kit didn't work!

There were no such problems with this year's show, which is why AL was so compelled to cover it. We wanted to show you guys what happens with The 90's Revival when everything goes to plan.

This episode includes lots of AL's reactions, an interview with Dave & Benno from The 90's Revival AND an interview with Bradley McIntosh from S-Club 7.

This episode has a lot of energy and I got super excited while putting this together, simply because the vibes just felt so right. I want to say a huge thank you to Dave Prince and Paul Bennett for giving me all of their support, you guys really are the best. We have an accompanying vlog on YouTube so you can see the event for yourselves. It features lots of exclusive backstage footage, check it out!

We do discuss Landscape Architecture in this episode, however the main subject of this podcast is body positivity. Becky is an extremely talented photographer with her own company, Lilith, created to help promote body positivity photography.

"You're the one that's there in your hard moments, you're the one that's there to support your major successes and be the proudest of you that you can be. That's the most integral, important relationship you'll have" - This is a direct quote from Becky from this episode.

It is important for you to embrace the beauty of you and own it. This may seem like a difficult task to many, but Becky is here to help you, with a nature infused liberating photoshoot that will make you proud. Take a look for yourself, check out the Lilith website - https://www.lilithbodypositivephotography.com/

We really get into how Becky became the photographer she is today and the importance of what it is that she does and much, much more.

Becky, you're amazing. You help people free themselves from the prison that is self doubt you are a hero in my eyes. Self confidence may seem like a million miles away to many, but with someone like you who can offer the opportunity to embrace who we are, these people have a shot. This is priceless. You are welcome back anytime, I really enjoyed this - AL

The audition process for Henry House, a Rocking Horse Media production is considered to be quite unique. Alex Whiteley speaks to 3 members of the cast for Henry House who have been through the audition process, not got the role they originally went for, had a positive experience and ended up with different roles within the production.

We have Ben Bertrand, Missi Chapell and Brooke Fleming on the show to chat about their careers, their experiences with auditions and a general chit-chat about the lives of actors.

Thank you to our great guests for this one, everyone who commented throughout this episode and the Rocking Horse team for helping put this together. Really enjoyed this one! - AL

The reason being, is because Alex is only 20 years old and is already counsellor of Bowbrook for the Liberal Democrats and is going to be throwing his name in the hat to become Shrewsbury's next MP.

We decided that today's podcast would be about young people in politics, where Alex's career has taken him, where he is planning to go with it and his inspirations.

Alex is a great guy and at 20, he has a great head on his shoulders. Now, age is mentioned an awful lot during this podcast but maybe that is because politics is considered a career for older people. But here at The Biscuit we think having younger people in politics is a wonderfully positive thing. So let's discuss...

Thank you Alex for coming on The Biscuit, you were a great guest and good sport too. I threw you in the deep end with a completely hypothetical debate about "Porgs" from Star Wars. It was silly but had a purpose...I guess. Thanks for coming on, you're welcome anytime. - AL

We set up downstairs while some of the award winning acts performed upstairs and me managed to chat to:

LP Tripp, Starboi Senshi, club owner Matt Minor, rapper Monroe, videographer Andy Galloway and event organiser Tim aka Trademark Blud.

Every single one of these interviews offers a great insight into music and what it means to have a large scale awards ceremony in Shropshire. It really has given these artists something to aspire towards and you could hear it.

We also ask the artists, "what are you without music?" which you'd expect to produce something generic or cliché but we got some great answers.

The music you hear from the offset is from Monroe, you can follow him right here - https://www.youtube.com/c/MonroeTF1 Give this guy some support, he deserves it.

Before this interview, there were many people that mentioned Alex McCarthy to AL as someone who is genuinely great a helping, motivating and inspiring others.

It doesn't take long before we start seeing those raw flashes of organic brilliance from Alex, in-fact we clocked it at 01:24 into the episode when AL receives some out of the box wisdom about "finding your audience."

Buckle in guys, this is going to be a good one.

Well, what can I say? I felt super lucky to have had Alex on this episode. It's weird that even after the hundreds of people I have interviewed over the years there are still people that I am awestruck by. Just chatting to Alex at the table I could just feel the positivity in the room. That's no intended to bloat her ego, it's genuine. Listen to the episode and see for yourself. Thanks Alex, we must do this again soon as we suggested, - AL

You can find the Shrewsbury Biscuit on:

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If you would like to get in touch, offer feedback or even come on the show yourself, our email address is: shrewsburybiscuitpodcast@gmail.com

Some may remember "Bouncers" from 2021, it was a great show that got a lot of good press. Shropshire Drama Company are bringing "Art" to Theatre Severn on the 9th - 12th November and it sounds like a lot of fun.

"Art" written by Yasmina Reza offers a woman's outside perspective of a conversation between 3 friends about a piece of art. It really offers questions about the relationships between guys and their friendships. Derek has spent a lot of time moulding this into something that can be enjoyed by all.

AL spends a bit of time finding out all about Derek and what it is about the theatre that he finds so appealing. From the conception of an idea, to the final curtain fall, what about the process does Derek love the most.

After speaking to Derek I can tell you a lot of love has gone into making this show something special and I encourage you all to take a look at the Shropshire Drama Company's website to learn more about them and most importantly buy tickets. The website is right here - https://shropshiredramacompany.co.uk/ Derek was a wonderful guest and I can already tell this is not the only time he will feature on The Biscuit. Thank you Neville Street for making the connection and helping us get this interview together at such short notice - AL

Having never been to a Steampunk event before AL was in complete bewilderment as he walked amongst people young and old who were dressed to the nines in some of the most stunning outfits. There were LOTS of people at this event and it was really enjoyable.

AL interviews young people, older people (with respects) he bumps into old friends and as always makes new friends. Including a firebreather, a merchant and Claire the organiser.

I loved this event because it was all new to me plus, there were diehard Steampunk fans walking amongst the bewildered folks like me and many other that walked in off the street. it was amazing! You have to give nothing but respect to anyone who puts the amount of passion and work into what they love.

Camilla has 16 years of experience as an architect, 10 years of those have been working for herself. We find out about the process that goes into turning an idea that may start off as a text, into a building that a client will adore.

We need to find out about any misconceptions that people may have about architecture, what the industry is like at being inclusive and also a bit about the psychology behind the beloved (or hated) Kallax!

Architects are up there with doctors and lawyers as one of those careers that many may speculate about. However, here at The Biscuit we have the facts with our great guest. Follow Camilla on Instagram and stay up to date with everything she is up to the link is right here - https://www.instagram.com/architecture_ventures/

Camilla is wonderful at articulating the details of her career and this episode offers such a great insight. Really enjoyed this chat it is a really open, airy conversation which should leave you feeling positive and inspired. So thank you Camilla. - AL

But it has been years since AL and Gareth have had a chilled out...chat. This interview is designed to speak to Gareth as a human being, not a director, not a writer, no. I want to find out how much the constant planning and organising has taken it's toll on him and we get in pretty deep.

Gareth opens up about his drinking and how it ruined his life, then about how giving up the booze opened up doors he never would have imagined. He is now working with genuinely famous people, he is responsible for cast and crew from all over the UK. Rocking Horse Media is in partnership with Derwin College, offering learning and work experience opportunities to students there. The possibilities are endless.

This podcast is not designed to bring you on board with Henry House (although you definitely should) it is to talk about the good things that can happen when can kick bad habits and have a little faith in yourself.

We also speak to the owner of Liar Liar, a stunning cafe at the heart of Oswestry where this podcast was recorded. Thanks for the great location, thanks for the chat and thanks for the lemon and ginger tea that kept my vocal chords intact during this interview!

While I was at DRAWN I met Julie Cole who is a Trichologist with a clinic in Radbrook. But up until this moment I had never heard of Trichology had you?

Well Julie is here to tell us all about it. I thought this tiny little bit of content could maybe help some people and also teach folks about the world of Trichology. Thank you so much Julie for coming to speak to me at DRAWN it was lovely meeting you.

If you need help with Trichology please visit Julie's Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/trichologyclinic

AL is speaking to James, then assistant cameraman. Sarah who is the script supervisor and Anna who is slating during production.

But what do these roles MEAN to production, how important are they and most importantly, are these guys having fun in their roles? We spend a bit of time getting to know these budding crewmates and we get some really nice feedback from the viewing audience (This went out Live originally)

This episode is timeless as it really does reflect the importance of such an inclusive environment as Rocking Horse Media. The filming set is like nothing you will have ever seen before and us at The Shrewsbury Biscuit are grateful to be a part of things.

There were dozens of artists and hundreds of people filtered through the event as the weekend went by.

Day One was a tricky one, AL was only there until 2pm and his nerves were shot due to the pressures of the looming Pod Aid event. However there were lots of chatty artists around to talk to him. This episode features the voices of:

Gary Drew, Joshua James, Tat Effby, Morgan Bird (MVK Paints), Helen from Corner Lane Designs, KTJ Illustration & Mike Perkins.

To everyone who kept me afloat during this, thanks so much, your input is greatly appreciated. I actually had a fantastic day speaking to y'all. This event holds a very special place in my heart and it's because of you folks. - AL

There were dozens of artists and hundreds of people filtered through the event as the weekend went by.

Day Two was awesome there was a really nice vibe, even though it was super busy everything seemed super chilled. AL was really gutted that he couldn't speak to all of the amazing artists but there were 2 floors of artist's tables, it was crazy-big.

This podcast does include the following voices:

Sam Pooley-Stride, Gisela Robinson, Sukie Buzzacott, Ash from D and S Studio, Cherie & Pearl, Jas from Happy Daze Jewellery and Saffron Russell.

All of you guys rock and speaking to you all was pretty wicked, thank you. Cherie and everyone who planned DRAWN 2022, well done, you guys did an amazing job, you should be proud. Sign The Biscuit up for 2023!

Well AL is joined by Clare Roberts from Pink Mash who explains that this exciting event was originally designed to increase foot-fall in Shrewsbury Town. Knowing Shrewsbury for the talented and pride-driven town it is though, we expect this event to take off.

Shrewsbury Photo Marathon has three tiers. A children's tier, a student tier and an adults tier all with some great prizes for the winning photographers. Let's not get bogged down with explaining how this works in the episode write up though, take a listen as Clare expertly tells us how it all works.

We also hear a bit about Clare and Pink Mash which as an idea behind creative workings is a perfect metaphor which filled me with glee!

Make sure you visit the Instagram attached to this event, the link is right here - https://www.instagram.com/shrewsburyphotomarathon/

Thank you Clare for coming to talk to me, this event sound amazing and I wish you all the best with it! - AL

Back on the 9th of September AL met up with John at The Hive for a chat. We set up mics in the music room, we went for a walk around the exhibition and then we hit record. The art that was on display was mind blowing. Vibrant colours and antiquate displays of geometry, collages composed in 4th dimensional mind mazes that would just make the viewer stop and think.

John tells about his journey into the world of art and what it means to him. John worked with Roxy Music and we find out how he helped them and how they inspired him. John is a qualified hypnotist too and AL ponders the question "When we get lost into our work, have we hypnotised ourselves?" To find out John's answer, go ahead and take a listen to this episode.

Thank you to The Hive for letting us record in your music room (the sound proofing is excellent). Thanks Andy, for setting this up, always grateful for your understanding of how my mind works and John, thank you for your patience, I kept hold of this podcast for weeks to tie me over until after Pod Aid . That being said, what we have here is timeless and a very important look into the mind of an extraordinary artist.

Go to https://johnwragg.net/ to see John's work for yourself.

Dr Squee had been streaming for 8 hours at the point AL came onto the show and he brought along Alexander Westwood to play a fun edition of AL's game. A game based on Rotten Tomato ratings, we go from movie to movie and ask where the next rating is higher or lower?

The Dr Squee Show (the show of which Squeefest originates) is a show based around shows like Dr Who and Star Trek. So the theme of AL's Game was Stars Trek Vs Wars. Both Dr Squee and Alexander take turns in guessing from movie to movie.

After AL's Game we had a bit of a chat about the Dr Squee show's origin, movie/TV fanbases and their place in the world.

We had permission to share this content on The Shrewsbury Biscuit (however random it may seem) simply because the Just Giving campaign remains open. So we can hopefully raise a few extra quid. Squeefest 4 is raising donations for Shelter, a worthy charity to support in these trying times.

Please visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sheltersquee and donate what you can.

A lot has happened since the last time we spoke and James. New music has been released, Bassphaze played a live set at the 90's Revival festival in August, got nominated for an award at The Shropshire Music Awards and has entered a nationwide competition called Mixmaster. See, I told you a lot has happened.

AL and James discuss what life has been like for James in regards to his music career and more importantly where it all began. There was a deeply cathartic experience that inspired James and thus Bassphaze was forged, listen in to find out more.

I love chatting to James, it's always nice to catch up with an old friend. We spent some time chatting about our time working at Shrewsbury Prison together too which is always nice to reminisce about.

Please take a look at the Bassphaze website for up-to date news on where you can catch him, what he's up to and where you kind his music - https://www.bassphaze.com/

More than 6 months later we decided to make it right by recording a second half of the vlog. This added accidental sophistication to the previously failed vlog attempt.

We had a good chance to sit and have a catch-up. Kyle talks to AL about how things have been at KG. The difficulty of having to tear up a £5,000 vinyl floor due to the building suffering from vandalism, which affected everyone who operates there. This brought everyone together and they worked hard to try and put everything back together.

Kyle talks to AL about their plans for the 2022 panto. Having a successful 1st show, there is a huge amount of excitement and ambition in the air for this year.

The vlog is now available on The Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast YouTube channel please take a look after listening to this podcast, I think it's really good.

Sorry this took so long Kyle, love what you do and I'm looking forward to following your progress towards this year's panto! Kyle and KG Theatre will return...

AL is joined by Orla Jones, who will be playing Izzy Orchard in the upcoming TV pilot Henry House which is about to begin production. Also joining, are Kirsty Pierce and Joshie Turnbull, 2 new members of the cast.

You see, a few weeks ago Rocking Horse threw a weekend of Background Actor's Workshops at Derwen College. People came from all corners of the UK to take part. This one weekend offered so much quality and this helped Rocking Horse pick new members of the cast and crew. Including new director of photography Robert P Davies.

We have some other cast announcement too, with welcome videos which were kindly sent in. We won't spoil it for you though, you will have to listen in.

This is a good-feel podcast. A nice recap of things to get you up to date and a great reminder of Rocking Horse Media's inclusive philosophies.

Running right now is a kick-starter campaign to help fund the next stage of the journey. Take a listen to this episode and if you feel like Rocking Horse deserve even the equivalent of a cup of coffee hit the link here and please donate. There are some great perks here to take advantage of -https://igg.me/at/henryhousethepilot/x#/

Hailing from Leicester, Laura has only been in Shropshire for a few weeks and is beginning her journey of discovery. Offering a unique, outsider's perspective, Laura has found that Shropshire is such a vibrant county that there is almost too much to choose from!

Laura's specialty is beer, having written about it for such a long time. So it's much to her surprise that Laura has found lots of exciting independent breweries dotted about the county. There really is so much to Laura, that I don't want to spoil it so, listen in!

Sounds like this is going to be quite the adventure, I'd like to wish Laura and The Shropshire GOAT the best of luck. We've definitely found a great new friend who we can catch up with from time to time. This was nice -AL

Make sure you check out the great website for the magazine right here - https://shropshiregoat.com/

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Last year The Biscuit covered DRAWN 2021 in a big way. We set up a studio at the event, based in Shrewsbury Museum and Gallery and for 2 days AL had an amazing time interviewing artists who attended. We made so many friends and learned so much about the local art scene.

Well DRAWN is back again and offers to be bigger and better. With an exclusive use of the space upstairs in the museum, there is more space for workshops, as well as the dozens of artists who will be setting up tables to display their work.

Cherie and Mike talk about last years event and how they thought it went. Mike was just visiting last year and was so blown away by what he saw, he has become a part of the 2022 event and is looking forward to showing off his amazing work.

The event will be taking place on 24th and 25th of September, 2 days to show support to local independent artists and get inspired. Please come along, the event is free and The Biscuit will be in attendance too, so what's not to love?

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Having heard his name mentioned before, we have never been able to get an interview together, that is until now, thanks to help from our good friend Liam Tinsley. Liam was instrumental in putting this together.

Ryan is of a unique Shrewsbury pedigree and has a story that offers a different perspective to business that we haven't heard before. The ex owner of The Smoke Stop, Ryan became a victim of his own success. The popularity of his restaurant became an almost 24hr job.

This caused Ryan to move to Ibiza and find a job where he was told what to do and grilled if he was late for work, just to feel human again.

After Ibiza, Ryan had the idea to take good old fashioned fish and chips and give a new spin with the keepings of tradition. (If you can imagine that) We are of course talking about the famous "Fish Heads" food truck which always creates a buzz wherever it turns up. With a state of the art truck, some of the most slick branding you'll see and food that tastes as good as it looks. How does battered soft shell crab on a stick sound to you?

From the Smoke Stop, to Ibiza, to travelling the country in a food truck. What has this been like as a transition? How have things been going and what is next for the man will a million ideas?

Follow Fish Heads on Instagram to keep in touch with where they will be - https://www.instagram.com/fishheads2021/

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Jump to this podcast, we bring you the founder and organiser of Shropshire Music Awards, Tim aka Trademark Blud. Having spent years gaining experience on the Shropshire and UK music circuit Tim is well aware of the talent that sits on our doorstep.

During the pandemic Tim got to jotting down some ideas for an event that would bring the counties best musical talents to the forefront. Now those ideas are about to become reality with a fantastic awards ceremony at The Place in Oakengates on the 6th October

Here is everything you need to know about the exciting Shropshire Music Awards.

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CEO of Age UK Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin - Heather Osborne, Sal Hampson from SAND Shropshire, Director of finance at Age UK Gina Spencer, Mayor Elisabeth Roberts, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Claire Crackett and a wonderful lady called Lynne who volunteers as a telephone buddy.

The opening speeches are also included within this podcast.

If you have a family member who could do with help from Age UK or are in need yourself, you can find all the information you need at https://www.ageuk.org.uk/shropshireandtelford Alternatively, you can now just pop into the nice new office situated on Claremont St, opposite The Loop Shrew.

Thanks for the invite, it was nice being a part of this. Also, thanks to everyone who spoke to me. - AL

They guys are chatting to popular local band, Chasing August. Having first met at Party in the Quarry Park, AL and the band hit it off well.

We hear about the band's journey, how they get their sound and hear an exclusive snippet of their new single "Lift Off" which is due out on the 26th August.

We also chat about the important things, whether lead singer Jack Norcup would look good in Cher's attire!

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As a er ahem, folically challenged guy AL is on a mission to find out all about the world of hairdressing. How often do mistakes happen, has Olivia made any gaffs and where does all of that hair go from the floor of the salon?

Well, Olivia is here to answer those questions. You see Locks 2 Lashes is a green salon. What does that mean? The short answer is that everything is disposed of ethically. But there's much more to it then that, let us investigate.

It's really nice to find out about different aspects to business that I wouldn't immediately know too much about and Olivia is a natural behind the mic.

Having first heard about Sasha when Amy Tuitt was helping out on The Biscuit last year (much love Amy!), this interview has been a long time coming and at the perfect time for AL.

It's mid-festival season and AL is incredibly busy. This leads to a surge forward with the need of self-motivation and a determined mind. Sasha is the best person to speak to about this as she is great at, not fixing the problems for you, but helping you find ways to help yourself.

Whether it's diet or our mental understanding of ourselves, learning the tools that Sasha can teach is vital in staying in touch with what is important.

Where does this all begin for Sasha though and what drives her to want to help others?

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As it has been such a long time since we last spoke, we have a full recap on what Rocking Horse Media is and what they are doing. Orla does a great job with this.

Isobel and Sam tell us what they have found rewarding about working at Rocking Horse. We find out where things are with "Henry House" (the TV pilot about a care home.)

Exciting developments have happened, including a partnership with Derwen College, the new home of Henry House.

We discuss the upcoming kickstarter and why everyone should help out where they can. AL does a great job with that.

We are joined by a surprise guest too..

Just us chatting and doing good jobs of it...

Elisabeth is very down to earth and talks about her passionate fight in support for the autistic and neurodiversity communities. Throughout the years of keeping her children safe through their struggles with autism, Elisabeth has been battling to make sure her kids are treated fairly and have everything they need for a happy and normal life. It hasn't been easy though and this is where the passion to help others comes from.

What has it been like for Elisabeth in her first 5 weeks as Mayor? What are the do's and don'ts of being the Mayor and did you know there's an actual Mayoral rule book?

This was a wonderful interview and it was great spending some time getting to know our town's Mayor. Special thanks go out to Martha, or Mini-Mayor as Elisabeth calls her. She sat there so patiently while we chatted. Thank you.

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Now we finally have the opportunity to break the ice! Coming to you from Cafe on the Cop, AL is speaking with Rowan Richards from Rock Choir. A multiple award winning choir, with bases set all across the UK with over 30,000 members (pre Covid). There are also 3 Guinness World Records to mention!

AL discusses the beginnings for Rock Choir with Rowan and how she came to be such a big part of things here in Shropshire. We had to discuss how people managed during the pandemic (sorry!) But as we discover here in this podcast, there is such a feeling of family when it comes to fellow choir members that it must have been a huge blow to them and their community alike.

AS this episode goes out you have plenty of time to make arrangements to go and watch Rock Choir perform at St Alkmunds Church in Shrewsbury on Saturday 9th July. There will be lots of stunning music, 12 hours of it actually! And I have been told there will be cake. If you are looking for something to do, there will plenty for the soul this weekend with this special marathon concert. (Check out "Rock Choir Shrewsbury" on Facebook to find out more)

Thank you Rowan and Hanna at Cafe on the Cop for helping me organise this interview at such short notice. Hanna your cafe oozes character and it was a fantastic place to record. Rowan and the guys from Rock Choir, well don for being you and welcome back to the big stage, you guys are fantastic!

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AL speaks to many artists in this medley of interviews. Including John Wagner, Kev F. Sutherland, Mike Perkins, Beef Beff, Poppy aka Vivid Bunnie, Sasha The Scribbler, Dave Gibbons, Charlie Adlard and Andrew Lawden.

AL could only be about for a couple of hours that day, but there was a really positive energy felt from the Museum right up to the Castle in Shrewsbury. There were Spider-Men roaming around, amazing talks happening in the Museum and plenty to look at.

These guys are the backbone of what culture is today. Whether you're into your Marvel or DC, Umbrella Academy, The Boys or simple things like Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and so much. These are ideas that started of as a comic book/Graphic Novel!

It is events like Comic Salopia that really help remind us that the real rock stars are the writers, artists and publishers who give the art a platform to grow. There are a couple of examples in this podcast.

John Wagner - Judge Dredd, went on to made into 2 huge blockbuster movies plus A History of Violence, a graphic novel that was turned into a movie starring Viggo Mortensen.

Charlie Adlard - The Walking Dead...come on do we need to say more.

Dave Gibbons - Watchmen to this day is one of the highest grossing comic books of all time. There was a stunning movie adaption made in 2009 and a TV series which sent shockwaves across the world in 2019.

If it wasn't for creative geniuses like this the world would be a miserable place indeed. Enjoy...

AL walked over 2 miles and collected more than 20 pieces of audio featuring some familiar voices and some new ones too. TV chef Jean-Cristophe Novelli sits down to chat with AL for the 2nd year in a row. We meet so many vendors, sponsors (such as Fibre Heroes and Wenlock Spring Water) and festival goers too. With a new feature that AL likes to call a Biscuit-Run where he hits record and just...walks, leaving fate to decide where the conversation will go.

Beth and the team at Shropshire Festivals, you are all magnificent and you should all be very proud of the constant good vibes you give this town and county. Thank you so much for being you and letting me come and do what I love to do best.

AL is chatting to Omega director Thomas Memery today to find out what Omega is all about. AL learns about all of the great work that Omega does for carers. Tom has been at Omega since the beginning in 2007. But what has changed in those years? How have advancements in technology help shape the way that help can be given?

Loneliness is a truly awful thing. AL and Tom talk about ways to combat loneliness, including an interesting idea that we should absolutely turn into reality.

Thank you Tom for chatting to me and then taking me out to lunch afterwards. Enjoyed spending some time getting to understand Omega.

AL speaks to Sue Mann who organised the art exhibition for the Belle Vue Arts Festival at the Barnarbas Centre in Coleham. They discuss the challenges and the joys of putting the artwork together.

Next AL sets off to Belmont in Shrewsbury Town to the Hive Street Festival, where all things "arts" was being celebrated. AL spoke to light artist Andy Mckeown, Maggie Love (aka Queen of the Street, Town Crier - Martin Wood and The Walking Dead artist - Charlie Adlard.

What a town we live in. When it comes to creative minds, Shrewsbury is not lacking at all. Events like these and the many wonderful peers this town has, is surely a catalyst for the creative mind.

It is always an honour to be out and about speaking to you lovely people so, thank you! - AL

On the agenda? What AL has been up to. Meeting people at the Belle Vue Arts Festival opener, which led to an interview with Tom from Omega. Showcasing the importance of being out in the community and meeting new folks.

The Hive Street festival, where AL sat to chat with light artist Andy Mckeown and important updates about Pod Aid. Our live 24 hour podcast will be returning in September, where we will once again work our socks off to raise money for Lingen Davies.

What's on at the weekend? AL chats about what to expect at Shrewsbury Food Festival and Comics Salopia. Both great events that will be taking over the town.

This was a test show and it seemed to work, so the show will be returning every week on Wednesdays at 6pm. This is an opportunity to send in shout-outs, mention past interviews and there will be "Star of the Week" too. So if you know someone who deserves a congratulatory audio high-five, then please get in touch for future shows.

You may think this is a typical thing to think of from the inside of a town one loves. However, we have discovered throughout our years of Biscuit interviews that people move here and become besotted. Born and bred Salopians show so much pride for their town and there is a real historical, cultural and geographical appeal here.

Today we ask why? For this we need experts and we have the finest. We have The Shrewsbury Review writer and ex Mayor Phil Gillam, from 'The Shrewsbury Property Page' and Nock Deighton Andy Dawson and beloved tour guide, the great 'n' powerful, Stan Sedman.

What are Shrewsbury's finest points? Where in Shrewsbury would we take outsiders to show the town off? and What is the town missing? We are here to casually talk about what we love about the town and we would love to hear your thoughts too.

Thank you to my guests, much love to you all Andy, Phil and Stan. To The Old Market Hall thank you for letting us set up and for being so accommodating. To the listeners thank you for your constant support. Means the world to us.

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The Belle Vue Arts Festival offers so much more. with exhibitions, poetry slams, photo competitions, opportunities for the whole community to get involved with a yearly scarecrow trail and of course (AL's favourite) the Open Garden Trail.

Well today AL is situated at the opening event of the Belle Vue Art Festival's opening event "Lets Celebrate" on the riverside in between Greyfriars Bridge and Stop Café. The community had come out to listen to live music, ride on the Rickshaws and learn about what is coming over the next few weeks with the festival.

AL speaks to as many people as he can to investigate who is involved and what we can expect.

We also hear from special guest and good friend of the show Tom Howells aka #TalktoTom

Please go to https://www.bellevueartsfestival.co.uk/ to find out about all of the great events that will be happening over the next coming days.

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When we last spoke to Aaron, he had half of an idea (I think he may have even mentioned it on the show) of starting up a studio that other creatives can use. Less than 5 months later and this thing...exists!!

Offering so much potential for creatives of multiple media disciplines, Highly Flammable has so much! There's a large space which can be use for shooting, filming or workshops. There is a room upstairs that can be used for editing, a cinema room (so you can show the client the finished article) and even (cue angel noises) a...podcast studio (or AL's room I have dubbed it)

We are joined by Aaron's partner Alana, who is currently building her own business "Earthed Wisdom" who offers a more in-depth look at what it's been like seeing the building blocks come together. Also, Yasmin Owen, a young photographer who is just setting out on her own path. Yasmin had just had the tour and we get the perspective of someone who has just seen it with fresh eyes.

Here are the links for todays guests give them some love:

There is a Kickstarter running right now that will absolutely help the development of the studio and offer you some cool perks too. So take a look here - http://kck.st/3Pkwtip

Yasmin can be found here - https://yasminowenphotography.godaddysites.com/

and Alana's on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/alanaemilyyoga_/

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Well, as a way to inspire folks to embrace nature we are talking about an initiative that is in it's 7th year, "30 Days Wild" This is where you guys get the opportunity to document your interactions with nature for 30 days in a row. The possibilities are endless, we even reel of a couple of great ideas here in this episode.

If you would like to get involved with 30 days wild, it begins on the 1st June and there is a link here for you that will take you exactly where you need to go - https://www.shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/30-days-wild

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If you would like to get in touch, offer feedback or even come on the show yourself, our email address is: shrewsburybiscuitpodcast@gmail.com

Coming from Pengwern Books on Fish Street, AL is joined by Violet Fenn. A brilliant author and ex writer of articles for Metro newspaper. We are also joined by shop owner Susan Caroline (in between her running her business of course)

Violet is an erotic fiction writer and an author of sex and death through the ages. Publishing "Sex and Sexuality in Victorian Britain," "Secrets and Scandals in Regency Britain" and "A History of the Vampire in Popular Culture: Love at First Bite" and boy do we get into some great topics.

We discuss the changes in taboos, what has changed? What changed us? and how do things seem to be going backwards? Also, body positivity. In 2022 women should not be being pulled up for breastfeeding in public!! Social media. How have things like Instagram damaged the way we look at ourselves? Boobs. Adidas had an ad pulled recently for displaying the different shapes and sizes of boobs. Is was a very brave ad with a genuine purpose. Why is this deemed offensive?

There is so much we go into here. So please have a listen and I would genuinely love to hear back from you if you have any thoughts on the issues raised here.

Thank you to Susan for letting us use your wonderful shop as a studio and folks, please check out Pengwern Books on Fish Street, it's wonderful.

Finally, please check out Violet's website right here - https://sexdeathrocknroll.com/ I promise you it's nothing mucky. It's actually a great site, with everything you need to know about our guest.

Shropshire Epilepsy Support is a non for profit charity that offers the kind of support the Ange would have appreciated herself coming up.

We get real during this conversation. We discuss the difficulties of school, the "opinions of people", the myths out there (really common ones too!) and also how personal and ridiculous people can get in the comments sections on social media!

The work that Ange is putting into her charity is offering a lifeline, advice, awareness and understanding to the epileptic community, whether that be families coming to terms, people that have been affected in the long-term and even in the workplace.

I need to note here that Ange did have seizure during this interview (2 in-fact) and mentioned I should take it out. But after discussing afterwards we decided, actually it was nice to keep it in as it was a good moment to show. I am always understanding when it comes to my guests and if Ange wanted it left out, it would have stayed out. I loved chatting to you Ange and I look forward to helping you in any way we can.

Shropshire Epilepsy Support is always looking for volunteers that can help in the daily running of the charity. If you would like to get involved please visit the website here - https://www.shropshireepilepsysupport.com/

You can find the Shrewsbury Biscuit on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shrewsburybiscuitpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shrewsburybiscuitpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SYBiscuit

You can also reach us via our website: https://www.theshrewsburybiscuitpodcast.co.uk/

If you would like to get in touch, offer feedback or even come on the show yourself, our email address is: shrewsburybiscuitpodcast@gmail.com

AL is joined by Gareth Thomas and Orla Jones in the last fortnightly show. They look back at the fun times they have had on the show so far #tractorwars

Also offering discuss the huge ordeal of finding a new "Karen" after watching so many actresses auditioned. How did the auditions feel? Did the ladies live up to expectation and who.....won the role?

Well, we find out who won and we even speak to the new "Karen" of the "Henry House" TV pilot. Even though this has already been revealed on the live show. I won't spoil this episode by telling you who did get the part. You will just have to listen to this episode.

Things are going monthly from this point onwards as it is coming up to festival season, so AL will be very busy with The Biscuit. Make sure you join us on the next live show. Follow us on social media to find out more.

You can find the Shrewsbury Biscuit on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shrewsburybiscuitpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shrewsburybiscuitpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SYBiscuit

You can also reach us via our website: https://www.theshrewsburybiscuitpodcast.co.uk/

If you would like to get in touch, offer feedback or even come on the show yourself, our email address is: shrewsburybiscuitpodcast@gmail.com

We were sat in the middle of Shrewsbury Market Hall (thanks Darren from GinDifferent) having a very relaxed chat where we pay homage to some of Shrewsbury's budding champions, including Mr Gillam himself.

Phil talks about the hard work that has been put into putting this book together and having seen the book for ourselves we can tell you, it's a thing of beauty. The perfect "Coffee Book Table" as AL puts it!

I've never had much pride for where I lived, until I moved to Shrewsbury and it's the pride shown in people like Lorraine Fletcher, Sarah Hopper, Katy Rink and Phil that has inspired me to do what I do. The Shrewsbury Review is the perfect compliment to such a wonderful town. - AL

Today's episode is designed to openly discuss ways in which we can all stay ahead of the game, keep financially sound and even step into the world of mortgages as a young person.

AL is (clearly) no expert in finances so he has brough along 2 people who are. He is speaking to Gary and Jessica from Advanced Financial Planning (AFP) Shrewsbury.

AFP have 30 years of experience of navigating through the turbulent events of the past, for example the financial crash of 2008. So there is no one better to talk to about the current situation we all find ourselves in with the rises in the cost of living.

What steps can you take to not fall behind? How can young folks get on the ladder? and what has changed recently that influences the way we spend money?

Thanks for chatting to me Gary and Jessica, I learned an awful lot from you both. We should do this again sometime on a live show, get some questions from the listeners.

Now Dave is back with a stunning product, well thought out brand and an ethos that will take him a long way.

Life Lynes is a health based drink and is explained beautifully on their website "Lyfe Linez sports nutrition is born from a desire to bring the best quality supplements to an audience close to our hearts" This product was forged from Dave's own sporting inspirations and he has a very influential team of ambassadors to back it up.

Having learned from the big boys and taking on an ethos of offering a truly healthy supplement and the transparency to go with it, this brand can have a huge reach.

AL finds out all the facts about the conception of this idea, the back breaking work with manufacturing and how people have taken to it. Take a listen to this and if you're intrigued pop on over to the website - https://lyfelinez.com/ and seriously try it.

After spending just an hour with Dave I can tell this brand is going to go far, we wish you the best of luck Lyfe Linez! -AL

On the 10th of September the West Mids Showground will erupt with classical music, featuring the stunning voice of Holly Teague and a 40 pieces orchestra.

First we need to find out more about our guest. How did Peter get into this line of work? What were his first events to create and what is a more important motivator, failure or success?

We discuss what people can look forward to with the proms and how Peter keeps a cool head when it comes to planning an event like this.

We also speak to Nikki, owner of Cups Coffee to find out more about her business.

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What makes a perfect Karen though? What can the folks that are auditioning expect from Rocking Horse? What makes a perfect audition and will there be a Keith? We ask all of the important questions today!

Nasa has some exciting news about the development of Rocking Horse too, things are growing Y'all!!

Good luck to everyone taking part in the auditions, we look forward to speaking to you on the next edition of Horses & Biscuits!

AL asks all of the important questions so you can find out everything you need to know. If you want to find out more though, reach out and get in touch TMS really are a friendly bunch. Their website is https://telfordmakerspace.org.uk/   Now, I know this is Telford but you all know I love to support great causes in Shropshire and I fell in love with these guys instantly and they could do with our help to try and find a new home. If you have or know of a large space that can be put to good use by TMS, a charity that offers so much to the community please get in touch with them. Special thanks goes to Wellington Orbit. They put on a monthly creator meet up. This is where I met the folks from TMS amongst many fellow makers of things. It's a great place to go if you want to network with local content creators.

Ant speaks to AL as a guest but these two go back years. Ant McGinley is a very well respected representative for the UK podcasting scene. AL has been doing voice work for Ant for a few years and they've created quite the friendship. Ant wants to know how does something like The Shrewsbury Biscuit happen? What planning goes into something like this? Why make a podcast like The Biscuit in the first place? What has AL learned and what are some of the times that AL has slipped up? This isn't the ramblings of a self serving bloated ego, this is the story of a guy who struggles to speak to people in a normal day-to-day who has created a podcast that has grown into something special. Listeners of the Biscuit will notice a different side to AL as he goes from host to guest for one episode only. Please Take a listen to Ant's fantastic and very well received podcast "Wrestling with the Champ" it is a very funny, adult serial audio drama that will have you laughing your ring off.

Here is a link to the show. enjoy! - https://open.spotify.com/show/0cU0VnhkKpYeJaCQMwOAfc?si=ead010ff482e4099 

What does this event meant to the town? Who will be performing and what can people expect from this stunning festival? We have all of the answers right here.

I have a link to a great promo video for Ludlow Fringe right here so take a look - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGFbJdBmPEI

Here is a link to the Ludlow Fringe website too, take a look and keep checking in for more information - https://www.ludlowfringe.co.uk/

Thanks Anita and Jessica, I will see you at the carnival!

Well after 17 years of working together, Maggie Love and Andrew Bannerman are co-producing their final performance together for Shropshire Youth Theatre (SYT).

We sit around a table at Maggie's lovely home, drink coffee and discuss the years of experience and knowledge that has been passed down by them during the many years (sorry!) of working with budding young thespians.

The Tempest was Shakespeare's swan song, so it is fitting that this is going to be the final production produced by Maggie and Andrew. It doesn't stop there though. Shropshire Youth Theatre productions are run by the kids themselves. They choose their own production team and the work is completed as a company. Teaching the kids some very valuable skills along the way. The pandemic has caused so much hardship for SYT that these kids deserve a show of the highest magnitude. This, along with it being the Love/Bannerman swan song has all of the ingredients for a stunning night of theatre.

The shows are this week! (As this is released) Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th of April 2022. Get your tickets here - https://www.theatresevern.co.uk/shows/whatson/the-tempest show these kids the support they deserve and enjoy a night at the theatre.

Also if you have a budding young actor/actress in your family and you would like to get involved with Shropshire Youth Theatre check out their website here - https://shropshireyouththeatre.co.uk/

We take a look around, jump in a Land Rover and set off the beautiful Long Barrow where we find out what this beautiful monument is. We then head back up to the main building and speak to Jonathon Soden and Sam to find out how it feels to have all her magnificent work out for everyone to see.

The evening was truly stunning, everyone I met was lovely and Sam, I am so glad you had such a perfect night, you deserve it with all of the work you have out into it.

This is great as it is being released the same day as our coverage at the premiere itself, which was screened at Wellington Orbit. So once you have finished this, head on over the that episode to see how the emotions shift from excitement, to nervous to relief.

This has been a great journey so far and we're only just getting started. Watch this space for some more great Horses and Biscuits content.

Next we hear from the cast and crew directly after the screening. How did it feel seeing themselves up on the big screen? What does it mean to have this feature film out there? What does it do for the autistic community? We also get questions from the audience.

I just wanted to add, I know there was an issue with the dubbing in the film during the screening but as always I am looking at the legacy of this coming together of creators in Shropshire and great venues like Wellington Orbit. This feels like a pebble being thrown into a very promising lake. Watch this space people.

Well this is pretty much what happened to today's guest Kevin Horak, recorded at Nerdy Cafe. A good friend of the show, Kevin is back to talk about the 2nd Edition of his book, Mildred The Crazy Cat Lady. Kevin's book is based in Shrewsbury, it is a story that includes cats, action and adventure. If this sounds like something you'd enjoy, make sure you pick up your copy today. It is out now and available at all good book stores. I've just checked and its out in WHSmith!

Good luck with the second edition of this book Kevin I hope this idea of yours gets the success it deserves. Thank you too to Nerdy café too for letting us come and do our thing.

There will be celebrity chefs, dieticians, activities, challenges and even an appearance from TV's Nell McAndrew. There is so much to look forward to and the ticket prices are really reasonably priced too.

How has Carrie coped with the "Ready, steady, STOP" of it all and what has changed since the first time that this was planned and now?

Well folks tickets are now available so why not pop on over to the Wellbeing website, pick some up and go for a nice day out, learn, eat and enjoy this stunning event. You can use this link here to access the site - https://wellbeingfestival.co.uk/ 

AL is joined by the Morris family who are about to do the one thing so many of us dream of (especially AL with his infatuation of Kevin Costner's "Waterworld" movie) They have sold up and are soon, going to be living on a boat in the Mediterranean. 

With 2 adults, 3 kids and the dogs, this is going to be no easy task but  with the house already sold and arrangements made, this IS happening very soon. We speak to the whole family, kids included about the things that excite them about this move and the challenges they've had and what may lie ahead. Mini-Biscuit Timmy asks all the important questions like "will you have a TV?"

The Morris family are awesome and they are about to go an such an amazing adventure. We want to stay in touch and speak to them every so often to find out where they are in the world. We are so happy this meeting has happened. Thank you Jane Pickworth for the introduction!

It's never nice to lose a friend, loved one or mentor. What we can do though is meet up and remember them by sharing our fond memories of them and, in unison, celebrate them.

That's what this episode is, a nice reminder that these guys have left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

This episode is dedicated to John Challis, Anna Karen and Jack Morris.

Well, Sam has an amazing exhibition coming up called "Seas of the Moon Too" Which is a really clever name because if you remember a while back Sam threw a real "Rock and Roll" exhibition last year. But got shutdown before anyone could really see it. Mainly because it wasn't kind of...legal. 

Well this next event is legal and looks to be stunning. In partnership with Soden Collection, Sam is displaying her work in the stunning long-barrow monument at Soulton Hall in Wem. This event will be open for the public to come and view. As this episode is released, it is open this weekend! (18th-20th March 2022) With an open day on the Saturday (bring the kids) and something special on the Sunday. A ticketed meal at Michelin Plated Docket 33, where a unique meal has been put together just for Seas of the Moon Too.

Go to the Soden Collection website here - https://sodencollection.com/ to find out everything you need to know about this stunning event.

Sam is amazing to speak to. We ARE lucky in Shrewsbury to be surrounded by a wealth of wonderful artistic influence and Sam Pooley-Stride is no exception. She is a star in her own right and it was lovely speaking to her - AL

Featured on this episode are: Cheer Unleased The Stem Workshop The Girl Guides Natasha from Educating Kids Outdoors Young Max! Rapunzel and Belle Remynie from The Rock Project Telford  Beth Heath from Shropshire Festivals. It goes without saying that we had a fantastic time at Shropshire Kids Festival 2022. We love nothing more than to showcase the amazing things that go on in Shropshire. This event was stunning and it was a real privilege to be there. Thanks again to the team at Shropshire Festivals you're all amazing and you make this county a much brighter place.

Thank you to the Shropshire Festivals team for letting us come and do our thing. We had a fantastic time! 

There is something special brewing here that could turn into a fantastic adventure for The Biscuit so watch this space!

This podcast is not designed to scare, worry or confuse anyone.  

The purpose of this podcast is to open up a healthy discussion about how we ourselves can talk about the current terrible war in Ukraine. There are many aspects that we need to look at here: - How can we talk to our inquisitive children about this? - Should we shield our kids from the facts, or openly discuss the war? - What do we mean about the power of non-violence and how  important is this? - How can we help the community around us? - What is the business of war?

We are all aware of how scary these times are, the awful effects this war is having on the Ukrainian population, the direct and indirect effects the war can have on us here. We have to be able to discuss this situation, get things off your chest and maybe look for ways we can help. Dr Phill works with https://worldbeyondwar.org/ who work all around the world to try and open up the world of peace-building to many, offering the tools and training necessary. A direct quote from their website reads  'So, if we can’t use war to resolve international conflicts, what can we do? Finding a way to transition to a global security system that is supported by international law, diplomacy, collaboration, and human rights, and defending those things with nonviolent action rather than the threat of violence, is the heart of WBW'

AL is speaking to one of the most talented DJ's in Shropshire James Lock aka Bassphaze. This is a very relaxed discussion about the life of a DJ.  James talks about his early life who would mix tracks together with some of the earliest mixing software available, subscribe to DJ magazines and would work hard to perfect his skills.

In November 2021 Bassphaze won the "DNB Best Male DJ" award at the "Indulgence With A Twist - Up & Comers Awards" PLUS a track recently played on the BBC. So things are starting to happen in a really positive way for him, we discuss this amongst so many things. This is the story of a guys who has worked hard for many years and is now reaping the rewards. He is a good friend, very talented and has the perfect voice for podcast/radio!

-ATTACHED TO THIS PODCAST IS A TREAT- James has mixed us a very special, one-off mix, just for The Biscuit. You are encouraged to take a listen to this talented DJ for yourself. Please give this guy some support as he is one of Shropshire's finest.  Click the link here to enjoy the mix - https://www.mixcloud.com/bassphaze/dj-bassphaze-the-bassphaze-dnb-biscuit-mix-150222/

This feature film was going to happen 4 years ago, then it didn't happen and now it's happening again. It's pretty complicated. Luckily we have Rocking Horse gaffer Gareth Thomas, Jess actress Christie Kelly and Izzy herself Orla Jones. These guys are here to explain all.

We discuss where this idea came from, how it ties into the "Karen" TV pilot and what a relief it is to be finally making this thing.

We are hear to listen to a lecture by Bibbs Cameron titled Darwin & HMS Beagle A Journey Of A Lifetime.  Bibbs talks about the very famous voyage on the Beagle, the journey of a lifetime (as titled) where Charles discovered so much that it changed the face of science forever. This lecture looks at some of the finer details of the voyage that you may not have know.

Bibbs you are a star and I always enjoy hearing you talk. My apologies for the technical error but we made it through and this sounds fantastic. 

You will hear Dr Robin Brooke-Smith and Naomi Nicholas as they talk you through various areas of the library and context behind some of the exhibits in the archive, including letters and books.

This episode was put together with both an audio and visual audience in mind. However if you would prefer to see this as well as hear it please visit our YouTube page right here and take a look, don't forget to subscribe:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDTxWmPrOLrJDYXEHH-nuqg

Thank you so much the staff at Shrewsbury School for letting me come and do my thing during this fantastic tour. It was a genuine honour to get the opportunity to soak all of this history up in such close quarters. Dr Brooke-Smith and Naomi Nicholas, you were fantastic. Also thank you for telling me about Charles Darwin being hoodwinked by his friends into trying to 'acquire' a free Shrewsbury Cake (later known as biscuit) from the bakery on Castle street, made my day. 

Recorded in the Hobbs Room at Shrewsbury Library Nigel brings us some interesting information about the life of Charles Darwin.

Despite the poor audio this lecture is at least audible so listeners from afar can enjoy Nigel's work.

This lecture is Nigel Hinton's work so I ask that this podcast not be recreated and used in other media without contacting us at The Shrewsbury Biscuit or Nigel himself, thank you.

We start with a lecture by Darwin Festival founder Jon King the lecture is called "Charles Darwin The Making of a Marvellous Mind" 

This lecture explores the 3 pillars of what makes Charles Darwin so unique in the way he became one of the greatest minds in history.

Thank you Jon for letting me record this lecture, thank you to the Unitarian Church for letting me do my thing and thank YOU the listeners. Hope you enjoy this as much as I did!

A charity that was formed in the height of the pandemic has really set a very positive trend in the way it helps local families. So much so it was named charity of the year by Aico. We are here today to find out how all of this started. How difficult was it to start a brand new charity during the Covid madness that we all faced. What has Leanne learned during her journey so far and how have things developed since the charity's creation in 2020? Leanne is lovely and what she has put together is an organic idea that has naturally good intentions and it was really uplifting hearing her story, especially as she is about the make the next big step. We MUST get Leanne back on in a few months to see how things have changed.

We re-cap what the event is, where it originated from and what it means to Mark and his family. What it was like having to take a year out due to Covid and the effect the break may have had on him and the proceedings this year.

Having organised a charity event last year himself, AL can really relate with Mark on what goes into making something like this happen so there's lots of mutual discussion about such things. Mark has amassed a huge collection of auction items and raffle prizes, we get a rundown of some of them.

Mark is holding a charity pub quiz on Thursday 3rd Feb at The Dolphin. So you still have time to get booked in if you can. There are some pretty awesome prizes up for grabs there too.

If you are looking for a great night make sure you pop on down to CCC6 on the 5th Feb, it looks like it will be a great night with live music, caricatures, prizes and great company. We wish you the best of luck with it Mark. See you on Saturday! - AL 

We just had to find out more about this project because the community aspect behind this show had such an impact. So here we are, with KG Theatre founder and show runner Kyle. Not only had Kyle just moved to Shrewsbury 7 months prior, but the show itself only took 4 months to put together!

For the first night the set collapsed and the group had to perform as it lay, regardless they still put on a great show. We were lucky enough to see the show with the set intact and the performance was very impressive. We find out about Kyle's passion behind bringing in new talent and just giving them the opportunity to learn under his mentorship and perform. It is early doors for KG Theatre but I am under no illusion when I say you will all have heard what this little community based theatre group are doing by the end of next year. If you would like to find out more about these guys, please check out their website right here -> https://www.kgtheatre.com/

This episode concentrates on writing. How does one write the perfect script? What are the processes that go into developing a script from a 1st draft to a final working script?

To help us on today's episode Alex Whiteley is joined by Rocking Horse Media's Gareth Thomas and he has brought along 2 people that are working closely with the production of "Karen" Of course we have Luke Allen who has appeared on The Shrewsbury Biscuit via Reduced to Clear Biscuits before but weirdly, this is his 1st time on this series. He will be taking on some writing duties. Finally we have Amy Munt aka Nasa who will be guest writing on the project. This great panel of writers offers great insight into their own writing processes and may offer some great advice for fellow up and coming writers.

During the episode we take a look at Nasa's own project that she is working on 'Sweetheart' which really needs to be seen, not just heard because the visuals are brilliant. The link is right here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22Q4Ma7PmNY

First off we find out a bit about Dan. What made him create this simple, organic, yet brill thing? What has changed for Dan since "Men Walking and Talking" started and how far has it grown?

Well I can tell you that this thing has quickly grown into a very much welcomed service for many surrounding towns in different counties too. There is no charge, it's just genuine nice thing that Dan has put together. If you fancy taking part in a walk please visit the "Men Walking and talking" Facebook group and you will quickly find where walks are taking place near to you. Here is the link - https://www.facebook.com/groups/510544513362798/

The nice ambience you can hear in the background is that of The Loopy Shrew in Shrewsbury and as you can tell, it is a really cosy nook. I have grown fond of recording here at The Loopy Shrew. Thanks for facilitating The Biscuit again guys.

AL and Gareth Thomas are speaking to Steph Jerrard, the actress who was supposed to be playing the main role as Karen in the TV pilot "Karen". However, Steph has had to step a way from the project for personal reasons.

We are here to find out everything you need to know about this sudden development. We also discuss what is going to happen with the role of Karen now that Steph has stepped aside.

We get reminded by Steph that she isn't dying she is just stepping down from her role, however it is hard not to get emotional when you think about the dedication and hard work that has been put into this project. To aid us we take a look at some footage (audio) that Gareth has put together, including some never heard before footage of Steph in her role as Karen.

We love you Steph and we look forward to seeing you again down the line. - AL

Aaron is no stranger to making short, beautiful videos that move people. His work has been featured at many festivals, events and promotions throughout the county.

We find out about how Aaron brought snow to Shrewsbury, what his influences are and what some behind the scenes chatter from that stunning Xmas video.

Aaron is such a warm, easy going guy and this interview was a really nice one to do. Thanks so much for coming on the show sir, welcome back anytime.

You can see Gary's work in many places in around Shrewsbury, most notably in the Severn Social on Frankwell, that giant pink Flamingo is his work. We spoke to Gary at DRAWN last year and I said I would bring him in for a feature episode so here he is. We find out Gary's journey. What path did he go down to become the artist he is today, what has he been up to lately and what are his plans for the new year?

I'm really sorry about my audio for this episode. For some reason my PC didn't recognise my mixer, I didn't realise until after we had recorded. This episode is very much still worth a listen, Gary is such a down to earth guy and his interview has so much that the listeners can take away from it.

Thanks Gary and Amy for this fine episode. 

You may have heard a few snippets of this interview during the "Meet the Weasel" episode of Horses and Biscuits but here is the whole interview. You may be pleasantly surprised to find out that the man behind Wesley is actually a really nice chap.

"Karen" is a TV pilot that is being produced by Rocking Horses Media. Horses & Biscuits is a step by step series that will be following the process from auditions, to wrap, to release.

Churches are natural gathering places for people so we talk about the opportunities that could be achieved if we used churches to their full potential.

AL and Robert announce a project that they are working on in the New Year. Using technology to bring people closer to local history. There is something very ironically poetic about it right?

This podcast was recorded weeks before it was released. It was a good one to have in the bank. I had podcasts to release that were more time sensitive than this one. However I think this is the perfect podcast to end the year on. We are looking forward to the great goals that we can achieve in 2022. If you would like to get involved with anything that we mentioned in this episode drop me  line at shrewsburybiscuitpodcast@gmail.com.

The film had just ended, the lights had just come up and AL was poised waiting with a mic to speak to young directors Alex Yousefi and Luke Allen about the film that they has just showed to a full audience. We hear about what it felt like to see something they have made appear on the big screen. What did they learn from the experience and where do they go from here?

We also hear from Dr Who star Simon Fischer-Becker who was featured in the film, Rocking Horses own Gareth Thomas and of course some questions from the audience.

We have followed the journey of Reduced to Clear as a production right from the very beginning and being at the premier felt really nice. Thanks Luke and Alex for letting us be involved, we cannot wait to see what you work on next! - AL

The guys tell AL all about the upcoming charity gigs that they will be putting together to raise donations for a number of charities in January. They also talk about THE BIG ONE! Their huge event coming up on 3rd and 4th of June at West Mid Showground featuring an amazing array of special guests, tonnes of live music, flowing drink, food, camping and lots of fun.  If you want to get your tickets for the June event go to their website right here -> https://the90srevival.co.uk/   After everything these guys have done to bring so many together through the toughest times, they deserve your support, plus it sounds like a wicked weekend. Thanks Dave and Paul for this interview, it's always a pleasure chatting to you both. I can't help but think that 2022 is going to be your year! You will always have support from us here at The Biscuit.

What was SUPPOSED to happen was, AL was meant to be there during the singing and capture the magical ambiance. HOWEVER, AL had set himself back by getting lost at his previous interview. It all worked out well though because as AL was speaking there was the warm glow of a fire in the distance, the smell of mulled wine and the atmosphere was welcoming and really nice. Firstly AL speaks to Jeremy Lund, a retired music educator and choral director who had worked hard to make sure that the music for the carols was accessible for everyone to play along. The sheet music is still available right here -> https://www.doorstepcarols.co.uk/sheet-music

AL then speaks to Katy and Beth to capture their raw emotions right after witnessing their event peak to a new nationwide tradition. Thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of the beautiful thing that is Doorstep Carols. I cannot apologise enough for missing the carols themselves! Speaking to you guys was a pleasure as always and I am so proud of what you have managed to achieve. Also, thank you for pumping out so much positivity right when we all need it the most, you guys rock!

AL hosts Gareth, Orla and Steph as they play back answers to some questions that he had posed to Gavin and the group discuss.

- Had Davies - Steffy Illustrations - Sam Pooley-Stride - Alex Embroidery - Francesca from Anuk Jewellery - Lizzistration - Cherie Jerrard

I am really happy with how these interviews turned out. They all sound fantastic and capture the great atmosphere perfectly. To everyone that spoke to me: you are all brilliant. Especially as I know some of you were reluctant to speak into the mic. Your stories may inspire budding artists that may listen, your stories are worth sharing and I certainly enjoyed hearing them. Thank you - AL

Photo credits: Joshua James Photography.

This is Day 1, Part 2 and features conversations with the following artists: - Gisela Robinson - Hannah Chumbley - Saffron Russell - Mike Perkins - Zoenso - Katie J Illustrations - Liz from Little Bird Editions - Asija Vesty Day 1 was magnificent, AL was like Alice in Wonderland, speaking to all of the magnificent artists about their superpowers. This couldn't have happened without the invite from Cherie and Tat, so thank you so much! I am going to put on here too (as I did the other episode) the only artist that did not feature on this podcast was Jasmine from Happy Daze Jewellery. We did a great interview, but the audio corrupted so I could not include it. I do intend to rectify this though, by arranging a feature interview with Jasmine in the very near future. Many apologies.

Part 1 features conversations with the following brilliant artists: - Gary Drew - Joshua James - Julie-Anne Pugh - Matt Sewell - Cherie Jerrard - Tat Effby - Mollie Thank you to everyone that spoke to me and of course Cherie and Tat for being the stars that you are. If you are wondering where your interview is from Day 1, make sure you check out the next podcast episode. Apology time, I want say sorry to Jasmine from Happy Daze Jewellery. We did such an amazing interview but the audio failed so I could not include it in this podcast. I feel awful. No fear though as we will make arrangements to come and do a feature podcast with you in the very near future.

This episode has a somewhat loose feel to it, compared to everything else on the Biscuit, I blame Dutch courage, tasty beer and the genuine positive vibes felt throughout the evening. I think this event was a fantastic effort by everyone involved, congratulations to everyone who planned it. Thanks too to everyone who spoke to me, especially Kevin, you rock sir! - AL

AL and Amy are on the show to talk to Sarah about her career. Where do her ideas come from? How does one get into the right mindset to write stories that young ones will enjoy and finally how does a writer find the right motivation to be able just just...write?

That last point is particularly interesting as Sarah run writers retreats but not in a typical seminar by seminar convention. Offering great food, relaxing spa and therapy options and the choice to either come to relax and let the answers find you while being around other creatives, or throwing yourself into it. AL ads that he wouldn't get much work done as he'd spend his time relaxing in the hot-tub!

You can find out everything you need to know about the writers retreat right here - https://www.lynn-robinson-spiritual-hub.co.uk/writers-retreats

Thank you Sarah for coming on the show it was lovely meeting you. Amy, my co-host you rock and I'm super grateful to have you on the team, thank you!

Now we know that Improv is a bit like Marmite, some people see it as a valuable skill some find it a little silly. Regardless, we thought we would give it a go, let the hilarity pursue! 

The guys discuss the new dynamic for the crowdfund. This ambitious project needs as much help as it can get and the crowdfund is extremely important.

A few tasty options have been added to the crowdfund to make things a little interesting, one of which is to even appear on the film!

To find out how you can help, check out the page here - https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/care-home-tv-pilot/payments/31697961/thank_you 

AL and new Biscuit co-host Amy are joined by Alex Ashton, social media manager for the Ryminster Group and Dr Joe Pearson who is the Medical Director for Summerfield Health Care and Medical Director of My OCC Health. The talking point is how do we healthily deal with the constant changes that are going on around us?

How do you feel when you think about returning to work after working from home for so long? What negative changes effect you daily since the start of the pandemic? Have you been feeling overwhelmed by it all?

Well this podcast offers a healthy, open discussion about the situation we all find ourselves in. Including lots of great advice that can hopefully help.

If you are struggling with things at the moment you are not alone, this is a difficult time. I found a c oupld of links that may be useful. Here is one from Mind with lots of helpful information - https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/how-to-be-mentally-healthy-at-work/returning-to-work/

I also found this on too from The Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/if-youre-having-difficult-time/if-youre-worried-about-your-mental-health-during-coronavirus-pandemic/

I hope this episode finds you well - AL

Joining us from her cabin, Abi talks about her reactions to the first steps out onto her new adventure. A huge ship that is used to install wind turbines at sea. This extraordinary ship has legs which extend to keep the ship stable while huge loads are lifted into place.

This is an insight into what seems to be an amazing adventure, one of many at sea for Abi. We clear up some misconceptions about wind farms and how easy it is to switch to using green energy to power your homes and businesses. Abi talks keenly about how every day is completely different and how there is so much to learn.

Thank you for joining me Abi, I really enjoyed talking to you and genuinely learned a lot from hearing about your experiences. I would love it if we could catch up again during your next adventure, wherever that may be.

Whether it's cycling or running, Adrenaline Sports Events build events that can cater for everyone. Midnight Ride, Oswestry & Welshpool 10K's, Running Festival at Brynkinalt and the very successful Pedal The Borders are just some of the stunning events that Alan helps create.

Whether these events are for raising money, awareness or even for you to run your own race there is a science to making these things happen. Alan fills us in with all of the challenges and rewards that come from doing what he does.

I think it's safe to say, with the ice well and truly broken between the Biscuit and Alan, we are well "on track" to creating some exciting content together in the very near future. Go to https://www.adrenalinesportingevents.co.uk/ to find out when and where the next event will be.

Stuart is a very talented actor who used to play the part of the "Thin Controller" at Thomas Land. He is also a tour guide of the Scottish Highlands.

Stuart has become increasingly curious about podcasting lately and wanted to have a conversation with AL about the how's and why's of a machine like the Biscuit. What was supposed to be a podcast workshop turned into a fun open discussion which is about 40% podcast chat and 60% good solid digression.

This is fun and there may be a few nuggets of information here that may be useful. Get in touch if you'd like help starting your podcast!

Who is Nick? What is his role at Throgmorton Associates and what is it he does? AL asks all of the important questions, including how he deals with the huge responsibility of handling other peoples money?

We find out so much about this guy, his adventures including marathon running, mountain hiking and even a parachute jump that nearly went wrong.

When it comes to becoming a director of such an impressive company what is important? We start to build a picture when we hear about Nick's ridiculous, yet super efficient organisation skills and the importance of self investment.

Before we get the auditions for "Wesley" underway we bring you a podcast recorded in front of the 20 something cast and crew in the room. In 30 minutes we bring you 9 guests. The topic of the day? Villains. How does an actor get cast as a villain and what does a director look for in an the actor? - For that, we ask the crew that work behind the camera. How does an actor transform into a bad guy? - We ask the 3 actors that auditioned for "Aled" Where do they go to, to gain villain status? What are the inspirations and what does it feel like to be bad? What does a co-star look for when working alongside an actor who can truly become an a**? - AL speaks to Orla, Steph and Dean about what they expect to see in the villain for "Karen?"

Things are developing into something special during the "Karen" production. The cast, crew and friends of the project are growing and the momentum really is infectious. With every podcast we create as time goes by, we see something new and exciting, it'd be hard to not get enthralled with "Karen"

AL asks how the last Drawn event went in June, what changes have been made and what visitors can look forward to. This next event looks to use the magic recipe of the first (very successful) event and offer so much more for visitors. Lots of giveaways, many great local artists and maybe a Biscuit or two ;)

AL chats to Tat about the first time they met at the Open Art Studios at pARTicipate in Shrewsbury. Reminiscing about how skilfully Tat managed to whip out a Robin Hood hat. AL also flirts with the idea of joining Cherie to a life drawing class! The idea of this podcast was to promote DRAWN but we ended up just having lots of fun, these guys are just great I really enjoyed this. Thanks Tat for letting us use your lovely home and Cherie, thank you for bringing actual Shrewsbury Biscuits...from Lincolnshire! - AL

Coming to you from Pure Gym in Telford AL is chatting to Gabby, founder of Cheer Unleashed, a place where kids can learn how to become cheer leaders. We are also joined by young Jess, a patron of Cheer Unleashed and future cheer leading superstar.

The routines that these guys put together are high octane and full of energy. Gabby tells us where it all began, what it means to her to see these kids progress and where she'd like to take things.

Dance is a great form of expression, great exercise, offers great teamwork skills and can lead to huge competitions. If you'd like to contact Gabby about classes for your kids, search for Cheer Unleashed on Instagram of Facebook.

Thanks Gabby, Jess and to Pure Gym for letting us record there.

Featuring  many walks down memory lane, "Morgan The Travel" offers the reader pages full of nostalgia and adventure, through the eyes of one of Shrewsbury's most beloved pillars of society.

AL talks to Ron about the challenges and inspirations for writing a book containing his life story. The biggest factor Ron's own mortality along with the perfect project to work on while working on his health. Here is an honest podcast, about an honest book about a lovely guy.

We catch up with Gareth Thomas, Rocking Horse Media boss and Orla Jones aka "Izzy"

We give you a brief run down of all of the participants of the auditions, building up to the reveal of who will be playing Aled.

Not going to spoil it for you here, you will have to listen to the episode to find out who got the role.

Horses and Biscuits is a fortnightly run, limited run of episodes where we will be following the production of "Karen" which is a TV pilot being put together by Rocking Horse Media. We will be there throughout the whole process, giving you all kinds of cool behind the scenes access. But if you would like to know more visit https://www.rockinghorsemedia.co.uk/ 

Karen is a pilot for a TV show that Rocking Horse are making and we are covering the production from the auditions, right up to the release. This episode is a great start to proceedings as we learn about what "Karen" really is and what goes in to making something like this happen.

Orla had to audition for the role of "Izzy" against many very talented potentials. We discuss how the process was for her.

This is a fortnightly limited spin-off podcast. We will be going live every 2 weeks on a Sunday and then releasing the audio only podcast on the following Wednesday. If you would like to find out more about Rocking Horse Media and keep up to date with production visit https://www.rockinghorsemedia.co.uk/ 

You can see Matt's work dotted around town. Opposite "Monty's", in The Market Hall, up-high in Petit-Glou even in the Rea Brook. You can pick up one of Matt's books or even give him a google and you will see for yourself how talented our guest is. AL is joined by good friend of The Biscuit, superstar photographer James Warman. The guys sit and find out Matt's story, where his inspirations come from and how he does what he does.

Mike is a guy who had a "grown up job" in the world of project management, computers and spreadsheets until one day he decided to do something he enjoyed. That turned out to be creating his very own Whisky store, situated just on top of Wyle Cop.

AL finds out about Mike's journey, discussing the challenges, the lessons and how Mike has learned about his demographic over the years. Mike and Nigel at Wrekin Whiskies are friendly blokes and going into the store to record was a real pleasure. There is a real passion, not just for Whiskies but for a good natter too. Make sure you pop in and say hello.

A cleaning business that offers both commercial and domestic services, a Lavender Hamper & Gifts shop on Butcher Row and an inspiration work ethic that has helped create businesses for her family members. Kaye has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to making passion projects come to life, business and the importance of family.

This podcast was years in the making and I am so glad we finally go down to it. I spoke to Kaye briefly at Shrewsbury Food Festival and I knew there was more to her. I was so right. Not only did I learn a lot about Kaye's journey but I feel like I've made a good friend too. Lavender Hampers and Gifts will be super popular over the Xmas period, make sure you check out the store, support a great local business, or two! - AL :)

AL is joined by event organiser Sarah Belcher and head of marketing Danny Phillips to discuss what it was like to create such a dynamite event, to not be able to replicate it the years after. Sarah describes her thoughts and feeling on this. Well folks, this year the now named Krazy Races is back, in a big, bad way. We have a podcast exclusive information about how you can put a team together, pick up merch and most importantly when it is. We also discuss the expansion of Krazy Races to different towns, the variety of events that Sarah and Danny are building and the process that goes into making these things happen.

Thanks Sarah & Danny for this, special mention goes to Rhea Alton for the introduction. We shall see you all hopefully at the event when it happens - AL

When I think of a church organ, I think of a piano looking instrument that is surrounded by big tubes. That was my basic and only understanding. That was before this day, when I was invited INSIDE "Hillie" the organ. Once I understood the complexity of an instrument, that is the moment I realised the enormity of the task of rebuilding "Hillie"

Nigel talks about the history of the organ and how it ended up spending 110 years unfinished. After 18 months, hard work and quarter of a million pounds "Hillie" sounds better than ever.

Isla tells us about some of the projects that they have planned at the Abbey that will utilise the fresh sounding organ including a live play along to the 1922 movie Nosferatu on the 16th October. Check the Shrewsbury Abbey website to find out all the details https://www.shrewsburyabbey.com/

Take a listen, share the episode if you enjoyed it and get out for a full day at Soldiers Of Shropshire Museum as we discover, you really can have the perfect day out if you plan it properly.

Emma Glyn (Shropshire Distillery) Darren Atkins (Gindifferent) Lajina Leal (Lajina Masala) Stu Woodings and his BarBus Kay Gunner (Lavender Hampers) Graham Goodwin (Shrewsbury Prison) Jean Christophe Novelli (TV Chef) and many, many more!

This is a long, but great episode that encapsulates Shrewsbury Food Festival and the atmosphere presented during the weekend. 

This episode includes the voices of:

High Impact Sam Way (Harper Adams) Julia Dean Richards Brendan Hawthorne (Poet) Cheer Unleashed Katy Rink (My Shrewsbury) Panic Circus Caroline Bailey (Hunkington House)  & Paul Shuttleworth (BBC Radio Shropshire) What a day....Part two to come.

We discuss the strength and resilience shown by the Coleham community.

Kerry is such a positive person, despite all of this. The video of the water engulfing her stunning studio was seen by so many nearly 2 years ago, yet Kerry keeps smiling.

In this podcast we find out about the great work that Kerry has been doing to adapt, so as to keep inspiring the minds of so many budding young artists both locally and internationally.

Also AL delves into his adoration for the "Kallax", the undisputed champion of storage. Second only to its predecessor the "Billy" 

Kerry is such an amazing ambassador for creativity in this town. I am always left feeling inspired whenever I speak to her. If you have a young one that loves art and you'd like to nurture their licence for creativity you must pay Kerry a visit at Bloom Studios.  

The guys discuss Dan's love for music, his massive music collection, what lockdown brought and how his passion for Green Day began. This is all about taking a walk inside the head of a creator, musician and artist. there is nothing better than trying to understand how someone ticks the way they do.

Please show Dan some support, subscribe to his YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/DanThornhillMusic and maybe buy a CD off him. Search for Dan Thornhill Music on Facebook to find out more.

A huge thank you to everyone who spoke to AL on the day. This episode features:

- Iron Men Severn Gilders - The guys from "The Rig" - Organised KAOS - Jim Hawkins - Willow Station - Mike West (Truck Stop Honeymoon) - James Warman and many festival goers that stopped and spoke to AL for a short while. You guys are all amazing thank you!