It’s time to revive this feature on our blog and introduce another one of our troops, this month it’s Alan, one of our prettiest Pikemen. Keep an eye out over the coming months as we introduce you to more of our regiment.
Name: Alyssa ‘Alan’ Cooper
Age: 25
Rank/Role in the regiment: Pikeman
21st Century Occupation: Sales Coordinator
How long have you been in the regiment and what was your first event?
1 full season and part of the one before.
Why did you decide to join?
It’s definitely a family thing! My parents, sister, Aunt and Uncle were all in the regiment already. I came along for the weekend because I didn’t want to stay at home alone. My first event was Chester in 2015 so I really got to experience the whole thing and got thoroughly sucked in!
What has been your favourite ever event and why?
Definitely Catton, the August Bank Holiday event in 2016. A Major muster with a cracking beer tent featuring a wide variety of cider! The atmosphere for the whole weekend was brilliant and we had a huge turn out from the regiment! There was a fancy dress night where we became the epitome of “Squad Goals”. All alongside some excellent fighting and a fair few bruises!!
What’s your favourite part of being in Newcastle’s?
The family atmosphere! As a “newbie” last season I was a bit nervous as I felt like everyone had known each other for years! I couldn’t have been more wrong! A wide variety of ages makes for very interesting conversations and there’s always someone to have a drink with, whether it’s 3pm or 3am!! I’ve made friends for life and despite living at opposite ends of the country I know I could call on them at any time!!
Which 21st Century comfort do you miss the most when at an event?
A shower! A baby wipe wash is not always ideal after rolling around in mud all day!
If you’re not spending your weekends re-enacting, what would you be doing instead?
I would love to say making productive use of my time and sorting out the horses however probably sleeping off the excesses of the night before, haha!
And finally, what is your tipple of choice after a hard day’s battling?
GIN …. all the gin!!!