Lottie meets the subversives
It appears nowhere in the official listings but on the last Monday of each month a motley crew assemble on the outskirts of Ilkeston (known locally as "ilson") in Derbyshire to sample real ale.
Manly happened to be in the same pub just a week before – relaxing after a tiring day at work! He got the tip off – same place, same time on 26th March.
With trepidation Lottie carried Manly and Womanly to the assignation. Would it be safe to park in the deserted streets? One of Lotties sisters was already hugging the curb with a cousin close behind. Two yellow and black Citroen 2CV Charleston's under the dim street lamps, both with tow bars and the sister with a pregnant boot prominently displayed. A new world record for Ilkeston.
12 unnamed real ale experts were crowded round the roaring wood fuelled fire. The James Bond cars magazine with the yellow 2CV model was the centre of attention until the beer began to influence the conversations which slid into a series of tasteless jokes – hugely funny after only 2 pints. Lottie listened through the window and agreed with her new friends that mankind was doomed. One humanish character called Ian, even claimed that new cars no longer had ignition points but we all knew he was joking. As the hours passed modern technology burst in to the bar area and the subversives openly shared text jokes, videos and music. Luckily most other drinkers had left for a cosy bed.
As Manly and Womanly left they noticed Lottie cuddled close to a white car with loud markings and the words POLICE displayed prominently. It was empty or the crew were asleep in the back seat - so with a roar Lottie tore off home and made a mental note to check out this quiet Inn next month.
Last updated: 03 May 2008