As November starts to creep in, it’s time to introduce you to another member of the regiment. This time, one of our Student members is showing that the Pike Block certainly isn’t just for boys, meet Beth P!
Name: Beth Parker
Age: 20
Rank/ Role in the regiment: Pikeman
21st Century Occupation: History Student at the University of Sheffield.
How long have you been in the regiment and what was your first event?
My first event in a White Coat was Edgehill 2014, but I wasn’t officially on the books until Newark 2015.
Why did you decide to join?
I was originally a Water Carrier for Skippon’s Regiment in the Parliament Army. I chose to move to Newcastle’s partly because I wanted the opportunity to get involved in the living history side of things but also because Newcaslte’s are based around Sheffield, whereas Skippon’s operate in the Midlands and the South.
Which was your favourite ever event and why?
Newark in May this year was a personal favourite of mine. I wasn’t fighting that weekend but got some sewing done in the living history encampment. It was my favourite weekend because it marked the opening of the National Civil War Centre, which has some fantastic exhibitions and material culture. The weather held out and I would say it was an all-round success.
What’s your favourite part of being in Newcastle’s?
The culinary skill of our members is exceptional!! Shout out to Tig and her famous chocolate cake!
Which 21st Century comfort do you miss most when at an event?
I actually really miss being able to go to weightlifting training. Sometimes I research to find a gym in the area but usually we are too far flung from our camp and they rarely have the appropriate facilities. Other than that I would say I miss hot showers!
If you’re not spending your weekend re-enacting, what would you be doing instead?
I often have to miss battles for weightlifting. I’m currently a sponsored athlete moving through the talent pathway with British Weightlifting so on weekends I could be at a training camp with my squad, at competitions or just having a specific training session with my coach. It can be hard to recover from a battle quick enough to get back into intense training so I have to balance it.
And finally, what is your tipple of choice after a hard day’s battling?
Gin, Hendricks if I can ever get my paws on it!
If this has inspired you to come and join our ranks and give this quirky but rewarding hobby a go, then head to our Getting Stuck In page to find out how!