by Royalclapper »
14 Jan 2013 17:24
Stuka Other than the region's historic links to pottery, I admit I know sod all about Stoke. I'm not even entirely sure what region it's in. Does it count as 'North of England' or 'Midlands'? It exists as some kind of metaphysically homeless no man’s land adrift from better known English areas. What does Stoke have to offer culturally or historically? I know the punk band Discharge are from there.
Archetypal post-industrial/manufacturing decline City with persisting scars. Pottery and Coal Mining were the biggest employers so not Thatcher loving territory. One of the most Northerly points of the Midlands (anything beyond is North really).
The Staffordshire Moorlands and nearby Peak District provide the natural beauty spots. Struggling economy which would require masses of investment to fully modernise. Comparatively poor to the rest of the UK. Residents are community minded and usually quite friendly. Nearest City to Alton Towers theme park.
Culture is a bit thin, Robbie Williams is from there (Burslem). Pubs and Darts! - World Champ Phil Taylor is from there. It was also one of the UK's original House Music/Rave club Cities - Legendary nightclub 'Shelleys' in Longton was one of the first after the Hacienda in Manchester (the famous DJ Sasha was the resident there). It was demolished around the time a dual carriageway (that also runs past the Stadium) was built. Later on, another club 'Entropy' was established at another venue (The Leisurebowl) which was also one of the best in the country.