***Weird in the Wade Presents: Bedfordshire's Dark History at Bed Fringe, 25th July at 2pm. Grab tickets here: https://bedfringe.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873684599 ***

 In a celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Nat explores why the queer community has an affinity with the magical, otherworldly and supernatural.

She uncovers the history of one of the UK’s oldest, continuously run safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people, the Barley Mow pub in Bedford. With the help of it’s current manager Ryan, Nat explores its fascinating history and evolution as an inclusive space. The venue also has a darker past with its association with Bedford Gaol which stands opposite.

Nat also chats with James Chantry an artist and academic who explores queer identity through art, the environment and folktales in the Lincolnshire fens. The episode starts with a retelling of the folktale “The Tiddy Mun,” an unusual tale which Nat and James discuss in detail.

Check out weirdinthewade.blog for show notes and links, as well as a recommended reading and listening list for LGBTQ+ history and folklore.

Want ad free episodes and bonus content, sign up to Weird in the Wade's patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/WeirdintheWade

Got a comment or a suggestion? Get in touch with Nat on [email protected] or @weirdinthewade on social media.

Thank you to Ryan at the Barley Mow and James Chantry for their time and expertise.

Weird in the Wade is researched, written, presented and produced by Nat Doig

Theme music and Stay Off The Tracks by Tess Savigear

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