c4countdown

The CoC draw has had a few changes so I thought I'd start a new topic. The confirmed lineup is:

David O'Donnell vs James Hurrell
Junaid Mubeen vs Tony Warren
Richard Brittain vs Jon Corby
Richard Priest vs Kai Laddiman
Nick Wainwright vs Steve Baines
Anita Freeland vs Jonathan Coles
Charlie Reams vs Peter Davies
Steven Briers vs Debbi Flack

At least 12 of the 16 players are members of this forum! Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.) The updated game table is on the wiki, if you prefer to digest things in that format.

Not re-drawn then... oh well. Congratulations Debbi btw.

Looking forward to meeting up with some familiar faces, and meeting some new ones.

(Oh yes, and getting my a**e royally kicked, but it'll be a great time anyway)

DebbiF wrote:getting my a**e royally kicked

Don't worry, you won't be the only one

James Hurrell wrote:Not re-drawn then... oh well. Congratulations Debbi btw.

Looks like we have no choice, James .

James Hurrell wrote: Congratulations Debbi btw.

...and Peter Davies, he is a very nice chap.

David O'Donnell wrote:

James Hurrell wrote:Not re-drawn then... oh well. Congratulations Debbi btw.

Looks like we have no choice, James .

I haven't found anyone willing to swap either

How about some warm up games on Apterous???

I am blocked from using apterous because of a firewall but would have loved to practise a little before our encounter. Looks like one of us has an early departure - I hope I can do this with good grace but I suspect a hissy fit could be on the cards.

A little bit surprised at some of the players included and some of the ones left out. But I think I should wait until the end of the Series to bring that up; not that I know what happens but I don't see how Charlie, Kai (etc) can answer without providing a spoiler.

Martin Gardner wrote:A little bit surprised at some of the players included and some of the ones left out. But I think I should wait until the end of the Series to bring that up; not that I know what happens but I don't see how Charlie, Kai (etc) can answer without providing a spoiler.

Don't know who you're thinking of in particular, Martin, but the invitees (at least originally) were chosen before the series was completed, and I believe any inclusions and exclusions are more down to who couldn't make the dates (which have changed a few times now) or who didn't wish to take part, rather than anything else (with the possible exception of Mr Hansford). I think that sentence avoids any spoilers, but I'm sure Gev will spot one somewhere!

Charlie Reams wrote:Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.)

Meant to ask this earlier. Will this be the first ever recording session to take place on a Sunday? Or for that matter, a weekend? Is nothing sacred any more?

Mike Brown wrote:

Charlie Reams wrote:Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.)

Meant to ask this earlier. Will this be the first ever recording session to take place on a Sunday? Or for that matter, a weekend? Is nothing sacred any more?

The trains between Lincoln and Leeds bloody well are. Though ironically Sunday is the only day there's a direct service between the two cities!

Mike Brown wrote:

Charlie Reams wrote:Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.)

Meant to ask this earlier. Will this be the first ever recording session to take place on a Sunday? Or for that matter, a weekend? Is nothing sacred any more?

Yes, Mike. I am due to play James on Sunday at 12:30.

Martin Gardner wrote:A little bit surprised at some of the players included and some of the ones left out. But I think I should wait until the end of the Series to bring that up; not that I know what happens but I don't see how Charlie, Kai (etc) can answer without providing a spoiler.

Sort of hard to talk about this when almost all of the people involved are members of the forum, I suppose I'm surprised at Debbi Flack and Peter Davies being included as they weren't Octochamps and Peter got knocked out at the semi-final stage. As for Debbi, Martin Bishop seems a more obvious choice; it's not often you get an Octochamps averaging 100 points a game that doesn't make the CofC! This perhaps relates to the fact that Martin gets knocked out in the first round and Debbi makes it all the way to the final (this is guessing I have no knowledge of it)l; I'm certainly not having a go at Debbi, I'm just saying that she's won fewer games and has a lower average score, which is statistically true. You wouldn't leave out Paul Gallen to include Rita Willmott.

As pointed out, quite a lot of people have declined invitations, almost of all of them are Octochamps so that might explain the presence of non-Octochamps, but I feel a bit disappointed for Martin Bishop who's averaging something like 101 points per game.

Martin Gardner wrote: As for Debbi, Martin Bishop seems a more obvious choice

He said he was asked, but I think he pulled out for some reason.

Mike Brown wrote:

Martin Gardner wrote:A little bit surprised at some of the players included and some of the ones left out. But I think I should wait until the end of the Series to bring that up; not that I know what happens but I don't see how Charlie, Kai (etc) can answer without providing a spoiler.

Don't know who you're thinking of in particular, Martin, but the invitees (at least originally) were chosen before the series was completed, and I believe any inclusions and exclusions are more down to who couldn't make the dates (which have changed a few times now) or who didn't wish to take part, rather than anything else (with the possible exception of Mr Hansford). I think that sentence avoids any spoilers, but I'm sure Gev will spot one somewhere!

I think there have been some suspicions that maybe one or two have been selected over others simply for being female.

Kai Laddiman wrote:

Martin Gardner wrote: As for Debbi, Martin Bishop seems a more obvious choice

He said he was asked, but I think he pulled out for some reason.

Yeah, I had to go into the first day of a new job and ask for half a week off. That didn't work out so well.

Hopefully, I'll have another chance to come back sometime.

I know I'm probably only there because others couldn't make it (and yes, maybe because I'm female), but nevertheless I'm just going to go and enjoy myself and do my best.

I think Anita Freeland and Jean Webby both deserved their places, after all Anita was a runner-up and Jean won 9 games before losing in the semi which is as good a record as a lot of the other original invitees. In Debbi's case without knowing how she fared in the finals it's hard to make a judgment. Plus with the number of withdrawals the options as to who to invite were probably getting a bit limited.

Rich Priest wrote:I think Anita Freeland and Jean Webby both deserved their places, after all Anita was a runner-up and Jean won 9 games before losing in the semi which is as good a record as a lot of the other original invitees. In Debbi's case without knowing how she fared in the finals it's hard to make a judgment. Plus with the number of withdrawals the options as to who to invite were probably getting a bit limited.

Yeah in fairness Martin's explanation is a good one.

DebbiF wrote:I know I'm probably only there because others couldn't make it (and yes, maybe because I'm female), but nevertheless I'm just going to go and enjoy myself and do my best.

You only live once, enjoy it!

Gavin Chipper wrote:

Mike Brown wrote:

Martin Gardner wrote:A little bit surprised at some of the players included and some of the ones left out. But I think I should wait until the end of the Series to bring that up; not that I know what happens but I don't see how Charlie, Kai (etc) can answer without providing a spoiler.

Don't know who you're thinking of in particular, Martin, but the invitees (at least originally) were chosen before the series was completed, and I believe any inclusions and exclusions are more down to who couldn't make the dates (which have changed a few times now) or who didn't wish to take part, rather than anything else (with the possible exception of Mr Hansford). I think that sentence avoids any spoilers, but I'm sure Gev will spot one somewhere!

I think there have been some suspicions that maybe one or two have been selected over others simply for being female.

I think there have been some suspicions that you are a wonderful human being.

Martin Gardner wrote:

Martin Gardner wrote:A little bit surprised at some of the players included and some of the ones left out. But I think I should wait until the end of the Series to bring that up; not that I know what happens but I don't see how Charlie, Kai (etc) can answer without providing a spoiler.

Sort of hard to talk about this when almost all of the people involved are members of the forum, I suppose I'm surprised at Debbi Flack and Peter Davies being included as they weren't Octochamps and Peter got knocked out at the semi-final stage. As for Debbi, Martin Bishop seems a more obvious choice; it's not often you get an Octochamps averaging 100 points a game that doesn't make the CofC! This perhaps relates to the fact that Martin gets knocked out in the first round and Debbi makes it all the way to the final (this is guessing I have no knowledge of it)l; I'm certainly not having a go at Debbi, I'm just saying that she's won fewer games and has a lower average score, which is statistically true. You wouldn't leave out Paul Gallen to include Rita Willmott.

As pointed out, quite a lot of people have declined invitations, almost of all of them are Octochamps so that might explain the presence of non-Octochamps, but I feel a bit disappointed for Martin Bishop who's averaging something like 101 points per game.

Bye.

Charlie Reams wrote:The CoC draw has had a few changes so I thought I'd start a new topic. The confirmed lineup is:


At least 12 of the 16 players are members of this forum! Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.) The updated game table is on the wiki, if you prefer to digest things in that format.

Anyone else likely to be travelling up on the Saturday? If so, see you in the bar Saturday night.

Yes, Tony. Don't think I could face an early start, coupled with a lengthy trip, as good preparation for facing James Hurrell. I tell you what I'll promise not to do any Irish dancing if you promise not to do any Morris dancing .

tonywarren wrote:Anyone else likely to be travelling up on the Saturday? If so, see you in the bar Saturday night.

Yup. I won't be getting drunk until I'm knocked out of the competition though...

Interesting to see the revised selection of players. Well done Debbi for making the list! And bad luck Martin - hope the first week at your new job goes well. Tough draw, though, Debbi. At least with the order of the games, you'll be certain of making the final nine.

Jon Corby wrote:

tonywarren wrote:Anyone else likely to be travelling up on the Saturday? If so, see you in the bar Saturday night.

Yup. I won't be getting drunk until I'm knocked out of the competition though...

You'll have one to pass yourself .

tonywarren wrote:

Charlie Reams wrote:The CoC draw has had a few changes so I thought I'd start a new topic. The confirmed lineup is:


At least 12 of the 16 players are members of this forum! Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.) The updated game table is on the wiki, if you prefer to digest things in that format.

Anyone else likely to be travelling up on the Saturday? If so, see you in the bar Saturday night.

I am likely to be around at some point on Saturday evening. I am looking at going to watch my beloved Plymouth Argyle away at Doncaster in the afternoon on the way up. Seemed like too good an opportunity to miss.

Will be there to watch all the Monday games so if you see me please say hi. Look forward to some exciting stuff, especially the new hosts and the first 2 semi finals

James Hurrell wrote:I am looking at going to watch my beloved Plymouth Argyle away at Doncaster in the afternoon on the way up.

Good luck for tomorrow night btw

David O'Donnell wrote:Yes, Tony. Don't think I could face an early start, coupled with a lengthy trip, as good preparation for facing James Hurrell. I tell you what I'll promise not to do any Irish dancing if you promise not to do any Morris dancing .

Okay. I'll leave the mandolin at home. Might bring the guitar though...

tonywarren wrote:

David O'Donnell wrote:Yes, Tony. Don't think I could face an early start, coupled with a lengthy trip, as good preparation for facing James Hurrell. I tell you what I'll promise not to do any Irish dancing if you promise not to do any Morris dancing .

Okay. I'll leave the mandolin at home. Might bring the guitar though...

I hope you're not kidding since I also play a little and that sounds like fun.

Charlie Reams wrote:The CoC draw has had a few changes so I thought I'd start a new topic. The confirmed lineup is:

David O'Donnell vs James Hurrell
Junaid Mubeen vs Tony Warren
Richard Brittain vs Jon Corby
Richard Priest vs Kai Laddiman
Nick Wainwright vs Steve Baines
Anita Freeland vs Jonathan Coles
Charlie Reams vs Peter Davies
Steven Briers vs Debbi Flack

At least 12 of the 16 players are members of this forum! Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.) The updated game table is on the wiki, if you prefer to digest things in that format.

I will be in the audience on the Sunday afternoon session, so will probably see the first 3 games. Please do come and say hi if I haven't said hi already. I look forward to meeting some of you.

Kirk Bevins wrote:

Charlie Reams wrote:The CoC draw has had a few changes so I thought I'd start a new topic. The confirmed lineup is:

David O'Donnell vs James Hurrell
Junaid Mubeen vs Tony Warren
Richard Brittain vs Jon Corby
Richard Priest vs Kai Laddiman
Nick Wainwright vs Steve Baines
Anita Freeland vs Jonathan Coles
Charlie Reams vs Peter Davies
Steven Briers vs Debbi Flack

At least 12 of the 16 players are members of this forum! Filming is 7 - 9 December (Sunday to Tuesday.) The updated game table is on the wiki, if you prefer to digest things in that format.

I will be in the audience on the Sunday afternoon session, so will probably see the first 3 games. Please do come and say hi if I haven't said hi already. I look forward to meeting some of you.

And I'll be the short bald one probably sat next to Kirk so same applies here.

Nothing wrong with being short and bald!

David O'Donnell wrote:Nothing wrong with being short and bald!

D'oh, knew I'd forgotten something- I'll be the short bald one with glasses.

David O'Donnell wrote:

tonywarren wrote:

David O'Donnell wrote:Yes, Tony. Don't think I could face an early start, coupled with a lengthy trip, as good preparation for facing James Hurrell. I tell you what I'll promise not to do any Irish dancing if you promise not to do any Morris dancing .

Okay. I'll leave the mandolin at home. Might bring the guitar though...

I hope you're not kidding since I also play a little and that sounds like fun.

If your up for a bit of a play I'll definitely bring it!
Maybe we'll be able to put a Countdown band together?

tonywarren wrote:Maybe we'll be able to put a Countdown band together?

Which bar does everyone else want to meet in?

Jon Corby wrote:

tonywarren wrote:Maybe we'll be able to put a Countdown band together?

Which bar does everyone else want to meet in?

Just like Jehovah's witnesses and Mormons, we'll find you wherever you are!

Jon Corby wrote:

tonywarren wrote:Anyone else likely to be travelling up on the Saturday? If so, see you in the bar Saturday night.

Yup. I won't be getting drunk until I'm knocked out of the competition though...

Can you really go sober for that long?

tonywarren wrote:Maybe we'll be able to put a Countdown band together?

Can I bring my double bass?

Kai Laddiman wrote:
Can I bring my double bass?

When I was thirteen I used to take a double bass into London on the tube. If you've got it - go for it!

DebbiF wrote:I know I'm probably only there because others couldn't make it (and yes, maybe because I'm female), but nevertheless I'm just going to go and enjoy myself and do my best.

Good for you Debbi - that's the kind of attitude we want on the show. x

Before you all disappear off to Leeds for the COC, I want to wish all of you well. Enjoy the new presenters, enjoy the new set, and most of all, enjoy your games. I know that most of you can't get the results that you would really like, but I hope that you all play to the best of your abilities at all times.

I look forward to viewing the outcome in January, and possibly to hearing a little about Jeff, Rachel and the new set before then.

Howard Somerset wrote:Before you all disappear off to Leeds for the COC, I want to wish all of you well. Enjoy the new presenters, enjoy the new set, and most of all, enjoy your games. I know that most of you can't get the results that you would really like, but I hope that you all play to the best of your abilities at all times.

I look forward to viewing the outcome in January, and possibly to hearing a little about Jeff, Rachel and the new set before then.

Thanks Howard, just the right type of message to read when the nerves are starting to play up.

Howard Somerset wrote:Before you all disappear off to Leeds for the COC, I want to wish all of you well. Enjoy the new presenters, enjoy the new set, and most of all, enjoy your games. I know that most of you can't get the results that you would really like, but I hope that you all play to the best of your abilities at all times.

I look forward to viewing the outcome in January, and possibly to hearing a little about Jeff, Rachel and the new set before then.

Appreciated

Howard Somerset wrote:Before you all disappear off to Leeds for the COC, I want to wish all of you well. Enjoy the new presenters, enjoy the new set, and most of all, enjoy your games. I know that most of you can't get the results that you would really like, but I hope that you all play to the best of your abilities at all times.

I look forward to viewing the outcome in January, and possibly to hearing a little about Jeff, Rachel and the new set before then.

I third the thanks - but are thirding and thirded allowed.

Just to wish all the forumites the best of luck in the CoC

Really looking forward to seeing it all unfold.

Many thanks. Really quite exctied now!!!!! 3 hours to go...

Good luck to everyone!

Hope everyone (contestants, presenters etc.) gives a good account of themselves.

I must say I had a fabulous day today. Thanks to everyone who always make trips to the studios great fun. It was good to meet some new faces who I've apterousised with recently and it was good to see the old faces again. It was also nice to bump into Kate Horton. I'm so excited about the new year and the prospect the future holds re: Countdown.

Kirk Bevins wrote:I must say I had a fabulous day today. Thanks to everyone who always make trips to the studios great fun. It was good to meet some new faces who I've apterousised with recently and it was good to see the old faces again. It was also nice to bump into Kate Horton. I'm so excited about the new year and the prospect the future holds re: Countdown.

Seconded.

Thirded.

Absolutely brilliant. Well done to all involved. Cant wait to see the conclusion on TV.

And I made it on Monday. What an brilliant run of games at the end of the afternoon.

Interesting that the new set isolates the competitors so much from Jeff/DC that they have to pass "same here" slips to each other for checking.

harry wrote:And I made it on Monday. What an brilliant run of games at the end of the afternoon.

Interesting that the new set isolates the competitors so much from Jeff/DC that they have to pass "same here" slips to each other for checking.

It's quite good actually because under the old format DC/Des would spend quite a while trying to decipher numbers solutions and even Susie had to be drafted in to check. From what I witnessed, the contestants checked each other's answers doubly quick.

Kirk Bevins wrote:

harry wrote:And I made it on Monday. What an brilliant run of games at the end of the afternoon.

Interesting that the new set isolates the competitors so much from Jeff/DC that they have to pass "same here" slips to each other for checking.

It's quite good actually because under the old format DC/Des would spend quite a while trying to decipher numbers solutions and even Susie had to be drafted in to check. From what I witnessed, the contestants checked each other's answers doubly quick.

...and with some welcome flashes of humour.

Kirk Bevins wrote:

harry wrote:And I made it on Monday. What an brilliant run of games at the end of the afternoon.

Interesting that the new set isolates the competitors so much from Jeff/DC that they have to pass "same here" slips to each other for checking.

It's quite good actually because under the old format DC/Des would spend quite a while trying to decipher numbers solutions and even Susie had to be drafted in to check. From what I witnessed, the contestants checked each other's answers doubly quick.

Doing it that way would have been so much fun with Jeffrey...