Monopoly 'bard' for Stratford-upon-Avon? - The Stratford Observer

Monopoly 'bard' for Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford Editorial 1st Feb, 2016 Updated: 28th Oct, 2016   0

THE MONOPOLY board could soon become the Monopoly bard.

Stratford-upon-Avon is in the running to gets its very own version of the world’s most famous board game in the year the town marks the 400th anniversary of the death the world’s most famous writer.

Shakespeare’s home town has been short-listed by Monopoly chiefs alongside neighbouring Warwick and Leamington, and also Gloucester and Shrewsbury.

And now it is up to townspeople to get Stratford ‘pass go’ in a public vote to decide which town will win the game – with the selected version set to be in the shops before Christmas.




The successful town or city will get its own board which will see the 22 well known London streets being swapped for some more familiar names.

So it could be goodbye Old Kent Road and hello Birmingham Road if Stratford comes out on top.


The Chance and Community Chest playing cards will also be customised – such as, Advance to Bancroft Gardens If you Pass “Go” collect £200.

“Each are extremely strong contenders,” said Natasha Rebuck, Custom Games Development Executive at Winning Moves UK, who are making this official version of Monopoly under license from Monopoly owners Hasbro.

“We originally began with a list of 12, but have shortlisted these down to five.

“The factors that will decide are two-fold. Firstly the strength of popular feeling and pride for a particular place.

“Secondly, the diversity and beauty of potential landmarks to fill the board. So it’s in effect a beauty contest – to borrow a celebrated Monopoly phrase – with the only difference being there is no prize for coming second, just first.

“If Stratford wins it will not just be a Monopoly board but a Monopoly bard – and we are sure a world famous one too in this milestone year.”

Email [email protected] to vote. The poll closes on February 29.

The winner will be announced in the spring.

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