Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: robert.deakin on January 14, 2025, 03:05:46 PM
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Hi all,
With permission from moderators - I’m a researcher at Loughborough University working on a project about the impacts of pub closure on people, places and communities. As many of you will know, the Bartons Arms in Aston closed for a period last year and we are looking at this pub as one our case studies. We’ve already made a few trips to the pub to talk to management, staff and customers, and we’d love to also speak to some Aston Villa fans as we know it’s a really important pub for the fanbase, particularly on matchdays.
My colleague, Thomas Thurnell-Read, and I are planning on being at the pub before the Aston Villa league game on Sunday 26th Jan. Is anyone planning on being at the pub who might be willing to talk to us about the significance of the pub, the impact of its temporary closure and pub closures in general? We offer a £20 gift voucher to participants in appreciation for your time and we hope to use our research findings to create better understandings of the role of pubs in communities, and to influence policy-making in this area.
I’m happy to answer any questions you might have. There’s also the option of speaking to us online – either in group setting or one-to-one – if that is more convenient.
Cheers,
Robert Deakin
Research Associate - After Last Orders?: A biographical exploration of the impact of UK pub closures
r.deakin2@lboro.ac.uk
@AfterLastOrders
https://www.lboro.ac.uk/subjects/social-policy-studies/staff/robert-deakin/#tab1
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Hello Robert -
I have been going to the Bartons before games for years. However, I won't be able to call in before the West Ham game.
However, (as my moniker indicates) I live in Loughborough, very near the university, and would be happy to talk to you at a suitable location about this fabulous pub and the fan experience there.
Please DM me if this is of any use,
Cheers, Tony
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Hi Tony,
Many thanks for your interest in the research. I've received your email - let's arrange to meet in Loughborough!
Cheers,
Robert
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I don't know if you saw it, but the Bartons featured on an episode of that thing about football food, but the ex Man v Food chap a few weeks ago.
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I hadn't seen that but have just looked it up: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1631659901105670
Thanks!