Partizan 2025

It feels like eons might have passed me by since 'Ommer'ead and WMMS in March, but it's barely been two months it seems between those two shows and the first of the two Partizan extravaganzas! There have of course been other events in the interim, including some overhyped effort down 'Lawndon' way, but none near enough to GHQ to tempt this geriatric in waiting to stir himself. Partizan though is a different kettle of fish, being the undoubted premier historical wargaming event in the calendar, in my opinion at any rate!

Phil as he always does, unless he's away of course, volunteered to drive me over to Newark Showground for the show, this year though I'd be accompanied by Matt and #3 Grandson Reuben, who were up from Herefordshire for the weekend especially to join us. I will confess at the off to being well below par so any comments I do make might have to be viewed through the lens of an old chap who was a tad less than pukka!

The games were very difficult at times for a geriatric photographer, being crowded with both players and spectators. In fact the show seemed very busy the whole time we were there. The wall of noise being the best indicator of folk having the best of times! In the end I decided to feature aspects of the two 28mm ACW games, well that has surprised you, not!! Starting with my friend Kevin of the Iron Brigade, showing a lovely tribute to late Brigadier Peter, whose sudden passing was felt by many. The game featured very many Dixon Miniatures units, so a big plus for me...

Peter Nicholson, gone but not forgotten.

A Redoubt Enterprises command stand serenaded by a Dixon Miniatures regimental band.

Perry Miniatures early war militia. I did point out that Dixon Miniatures make these very figures, no need to slope off to other manufacturers!

The Rebs are on the march! Kevin's Bony Blue Flag the rules of choice.

Colored troops advance. Now I do believe we should see more of these than we do in ACW wargames.

A splendid standard, fit to inspire any men of war!

Turning then to the second and larger game put on by the twins of 1st Corps and featuring much of their large collection of the same ~

A view down the length of the table which I hope conveys a sense of the presence such games  create.

Masses of men in blue and gray,  what more could a man want to see?

A Union battery prepares to deal out death and destruction!

Horseholders steady their mounts ready in case the cavalry skirmishers find their position too hot to maintain!

The medical care afforded to the wounded may seem primitive to us, but many lives were saved by dedicated staff. It's an aspect of battle which should be featured more in games I feel.

I'm a suckered for camp and HQ scenes. This one features the coffee wagon!

Terrain can be simple and effective in bringing the scenes of battle in miniature to life.

As can splendidly rendered model buildings conveying a sense of period.

But in the end it comes down to the figures, masses of them.

Turning to the Loot, as one must of course, traders being the life blood of these hobby events. I think I did my bit!

Paint, a Paint Pen, Brushes and Superglue.

Wars of the Roses flags, a snip at £4.00.

Speaking of which, the Perry Miniatures figures Dave Thomas didn't have at Hammerhead! These should see the two Midgard 350 point forces up to the mark.

Mdf bases from Warbases, who else?

Gamers Grass Tufts from Great Escape Games.

A Welsh priest, spears from Pendraken and a sprue of Epic Celts from Aly! 

More Wars of the Roses  archers from Eureka Miniatures. 

1/72nd WWII American infantry. A gift for William who has just endured his Sats!

A Viking House from Matt, a home from home for Bicca Biccasson!

Being English of course we were unphased  by the less than promised temperatures, opting to take our lunch sitting on the runway!

A stiff upper lip makes eating lunch a little odd?

He counted them out and he counted them back in? Crows that is...

So gentle reader, or at least those who have struggled thus far, that's my Partizan over until The Other Partizan in October [DV]. I was not at my best I did confess at the outset, but nevertheless I'd like to conclude by running a couple of ideas past you. Firstly, casual seating is still absent, not counting outside benches and the cafeteria. I would like some seating in the hall itself. In such a crowded setting how is this to be accomplished? My second point then, too many games. I think fewer and better would be my mantra,  creating space for seating areas throughout the hall. I do believe there are just too many games crowded in, it's neither comfortable nor easy to appreciate the skills displayed. Third point then, fewer or no participation games please. Partizan is the flagship for historical wargaming at its best. There really doesn't ever seem much playing going on at most of these type of games. Finally, Trade Stands need an upgrade I think. One or two are looking tired and a bit limp for the C21st. Only some, but a professional look would raise the whole and bring in more business I believe.

Well, that's if for another year. I had a good time despite my woes. I met friends, chewed the hobby fat, saw splendid games, bought new toys, spent time with my family and friends sharing our wonderful hobby. Oh, and commiserating with Dan about the League 2 Playoffs. I'll wave from Wembley on Monday week!