The Fishes Oxford has a Forties Fest
Regulars and new faces alike descended in their hundreds on Oxford pub The Fishes on Sunday 8th June for a full-on 1940’s Fest in The Fishes garden, to celebrate the release of Peach co-owner Jo Eames’ second novel and mark the 70th anniversary of D-Day.
Many got into the spirit by donning 1940s costumes and sporting victory rolls and authentic WW II military uniforms loaned by Abingdon Drama Club. Everyone then gathered round for readings from the book, Not Only The Good Boys, a gripping story set in the run-up to D-Day, performed by actors watched by the author herself.
Afterwards the band struck up and guests tucked into food from the BBQ served in The Fishes beautiful riverside garden. The pub arranged for vintage military vehicles including a Dingo scout car (a 2-man armoured jeep that features towards the end of the book) to roll up on the day, and had special Ration Cards printed offering guests a drink on the house at the garden party.
“It was a glorious day when the sun shone and everyone, whether book lovers, retro enthusiasts or simply seeking a great afternoon out at a great pub, had a wonderful afternoon,” says Peach co-owner and author Jo Eames. “It was also our small tribute to D-Day and the momentous events that took place 70 years ago, which were the inspiration for the book,” she added. “I was pleased that some of our guests on Sunday also took the time to visit the Commonwealth War Grave just five minutes walk away down North Hinksey Lane and remember the 516 young WWII airmen from all over the world who are buried there.”
Not Only The Good Boys is now available on Amazon, Kindle, selected independent bookshops and each of Peach’s 16 gastropubs. More information is available on www.peachpubs.com
