Saturday 20th June, a sunny day after early cloud, parked at Deepdale and wandered round the National Football Museum. Thought it had improved since my last visit. Seemed a lot to take in and so I focussed on the last 50 years. Watching a video of George Best made me think that he was better than Ronaldo, although it’s hard to compare as the game is different now. Best had such balance and the ball seemed glued to his feet. Compare a football shirt of the 1960’s with one of today, a bit like comparing aunties knitted cardigan with a brand name made from fine material. Nice room for Tom Finney. Enjoyed creating my own football show, only a bit confused. North Ends ground is looking good now although the new stand seems an odd fit, presumably to keep its line down against the houses behind, shame really.
Then a short walk up to Fulwood Barracks to see the Military Show. The barracks are a mid 19th century uncompromising military building, attractive in its way. Although it takes a large area it’s something that must be preserved. There is a large square surrounded by functional terrace style accommodation made from large blocks of stone. I’ve often wanted to see the Queens Lancashire Regiment museum and it was open. Not much room to move with the crowds from the show so didn’t linger. Once again there is a lot to take in and I end up with more questions than answers. The museum is a bit dark and varnished wood in style. Explanations of battles and displays of medals, a banquet hall and chapel. I had read there is a booklet about the regiment, and have seen it on Ebay, but I didn’t see it in the museum, there isn’t a shop.
So a walk round the display outside; several recruiting displays including one for the infantry enabling a feel of different types of guns, a lot of boys round here. A boxing ring with a tiny boy giving a soldier a real miniature pasting. Boxing separates men from boys but in this case the tiny boy was really going for it, till the soldier raised himself off his knees a bit and the boy suddenly realised it wasn’t all plain sailing. An RAF cockpit was popular and so was the Challenger Tank and Armoured Personnel Carrier. The 105mm gun attracting a crowd. Younger boys enjoyed the horns in the Land Rovers. A military band and pipe band were playing. There was a marching and action display later but I left before it started. Seemed a popular day.