Well today I traveled down to the Leeds show based opposite the excellent Leeds Armoury.It was very cold and very wet on the way down but it didn't seem to put off wargamers attending the show which was very busy from the opening.Outside of the museum and opposite the show was this iconic spitfire, something we should be very proud of.
The show itself? Well it used to be based in the museum which was great for all attendees, but for some reason it moved across the courtyard to a large hall that used to be named after Jimmy Saville! [Before his fall from grace he had been a bit of a local hero in Leeds.] The venue is fine as regards access, there is a large multi storey carpark nearby, although parking isnt free and the hall itself is large enough. The area for refreshments isnt very big however and finding a seat can be a problem. The real issue is the fact the ceiling and walls are decorated? in black sheets, God knows why. It reminds me of some of the night clubs I used to frequent in the 1980's. As a result lighting can be a real problem and certainly I struggled attempting to buy some paint from a stall. One punter used their torch app to see the colours.
One reason I wanted to attend the show was to see James Roach's Battle of Ravenna in the flesh. I knew it would be a wonderful spectacle and I wanted to check out his wonderful figures to see if I could pinch a few ideas for some new units I want to add to my Italian Wars armies. I also want to refight the battle myself so wanted to get some pointers about unit sizes etc. I wasnt disappointed, the battle was a wonderful affair and the units beautifully painted. James always presents a great game with clear but unobtrusive information re the actual commanders etc. And all units painted with enamels, which he assures me are quick to use. Brilliant.
I can only apologise for some of the images, between the naff lighting and my camera playing up.
Although I didnt really need anything, I managed to buy a box of Perry plastics,an ACW church, some Perry Napoleonic limbers and horses, a lot of paint brushes and some paint? The last two will be added to my extensive collection of unused paint and brushes.I almost succumbed to buying the new Helion books on the Great Northern War but managed to stop myself. They looked great reference books.
Of the other games, well they looked okay, and people seemed to be having fun, but there was only really one game for me. I did like the Durham Wargames club game and liked the idea of using the old Games Workshop Historical Ancient rules. A lot of dice though. Sadly my photographs of the game were very poor and didnt do the game justice.Still it was nice to see the lads there.
So as a wargames show it was okay. The trade was fine and it was great to attend a wargames show after a long lay off.I was pleased that there was a large turnout, but the venue? Still poor Im afraid..
Thanks Robbie, family matters stopped me going, so I appreciate the pics and overview.
ReplyDeleteIt wasnt a bad show but the only standout game was Ravenna, still I got a retail fix and got some wargames inspiration.
DeleteHi Robbie the Lads told me they had seen you they were back in Newcastle by Two. The image of a young Roddis Strutting his just will not go away.
ReplyDeleteSee you.
Brian, I defended you from the slagging you got from your so called mates. I used to be a bit of a groover apparently. Mind she was off her head on brown ale, so I think she was biased.
DeleteI have to admit I was tempted to head north just for the Ravenna game, nice photos and even better news that there might be some additions to your Rennaisance armies!
ReplyDeleteBest Iain
Iain, James always puts on a great renaissance game. I always try to see what painting techniques he uses, just to get some inspiration.
DeleteTha Ravanna game looks fantastic.
ReplyDeleteRay, it was lovely, but then all James's games are.
DeleteHi Robbie, as a member of the Leeds club I will try and answer your concerns.
ReplyDeleteThe venue moved across the very short distance from the main museum some years ago. The new hall is much bigger and easier for trade etc to access. The old hall is quite often used for long term exhibitions which meant that the club was unable to guarantee a date each year, which for a games show to fit in around other shows and trade is a must.
The black curtains aren't ideal but they are the choice of the Armouries who often have singers and parties in the location, much like an 80s nightclub.
The refreshments area is relatively small however their are two further locations in the museum, which is free to enter and close by.
We are fortunate at LWGC to have a very good long term relationship with the Armouries, the venue has some minor flaws but I think being 50 yards from a free Museum more than makes up for it.
The alternative would be a soulless sports hall on the outskirts of Leeds.
Sadly I was on holiday so missed the show and James' game. Better vacation planning needed.
Regards Ken
The Yarkshire Gamer
Anyone who organises any wargames show gets my admiration and pity in equal amounts.It was more an observation than a criticism as such and apart from the semi darkness I totally enjoyed the show, so not bad really.
DeleteRobbie,I want my biscuit back!!
ReplyDeleteGood report!
johnc(william)
Typical!
DeleteIn days of yore I might have driven up for this, the museum being a decent draw if the show disappointed, but not nowadays sadly. I would like to have seen the Ravenna game too. Thanks for the report Robbie and the pictures.
ReplyDeleteThe museum is a lovely asset for Leeds and there is always something going that is new.You should consider the York show David. Yes its large and boisterous, but its a lovely city and a good venue.
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