What should I bring to LeachLAN 1?

Most importantly, you need the right papers to get in. For everyone, a form of photo ID is required to prove you have a booking and give you a wristband which identifies you as being over 18. Under 16s require a consent form (PDF or DOC).

As a bring your own computer LAN event, to attend LeachLAN 1 as a participant you will require the following to play games

• Your computer
• Monitor
• Power cables for both
• DVI/VGA cable to connect computer to monitor
• Keyboard
• Mouse & mouse mat
• 4 socket power strip, you’ll only be allocated one power socket
• Headphones
• Games and OS disks, along with CD keys just in case something goes wrong

Along with your computer, you’ll also need the following for your own hygiene and rest at LeachLAN

• Tent (if camping)
• Sleeping bag & mat
• Pillow
• Towel and wash kit (for showering)
• Mobile phone & charger
• Torch

It is also advisable to top up on food and drinks before coming. There is a Co-Op a 10 minute drive away and a Londis in the nearby town, but it’s always handy to have something to quench the munchies in the middle of gaming.

What do I do about sleep?

While there is a small space indoors for about 20 people to sleep, we request that you bring tents to sleep on the grass area just outside the building, not only does this give you a little more space to put things but it also means that you’re less susceptible to other people’s sleeping habits. For those who are not keen on sleeping in tents there is a selection of B&Bs nearby.

Why is going to a LAN party better than playing online?

LAN parties connect everybody up with a significantly faster connection, meaning that when you play games it takes less time for your actions to be reflected the other players’ computers. You’re also in the same room with the people that are playing against you, so you can interact with them in real time without having to use a VOIP software like teamspeak or vent, this also makes it easier to set up games. LeachLAN is also a social LAN, meaning that as well as gaming, there are other fun activities to partake in, such as Guitar Hero 3 or taking a break in the bar.

What about alcohol?

If you are over 18 there is a licenced bar on site selling drinks for reasonable prices. The venue is a licenced area and therefore bringing your alcohol purchased elsewhere is NOT allowed on the site. If you are under 18 and caught with alcohol you will be warned and if found again, will be ejected from the event.

What is there to eat?

We have a selection of snack foods for sale on the front desk, along with facilities for “add hot water” and microwavable meals. The local Londis is a short walk away for other snacks. For more substantial meals, the nearby town of Bourton-on-the-water is only a 10 minute drive away and offers a variety of takeaways. Fear not if you can’t drive however as it is likely that people will be friendly enough to offer you a lift or bring you back something. Additionally, on the Saturday night there will be a barbecue where you can cook your own meat.

How secure is my equipment?

When signing in you are given security stickers, a lanyard with badge on and a wristband. The stickers and badge have your details printed on them. Anyone leaving the building with a computer or monitor will have these check to ensure they match. It is advisable for you to keep other items with you, or in your tent as you.

What can I plug in to the mains?

With everyone requiring power, we have to balance the available current between all participants, giving about 1.5 amps per person. Therefore, on the sockets at your desk, you can only plug in your computer, monitor, phone charger and other low current devices. This means that electrical devices such as kettles, toasters, hairdriers and fridges may not be connected to these sockets. However, a hot water urn, microwave and toaster will be available for your use on the front desk.

What if I get hurt?

We have a number of staff that are trained in emergency first aid in case of an accident. There will be a member of staff who has this training on duty 24 hours a day. If someone is found injured, or you injure yourself. Please alert a member of staff immediately if medical attention is required.

Who are the staff?

Rich “Shazz” Shirley - Event Manager
Dave “MorgyN” Engine - Event Manager
Nick “niax” Hollett - Event Manager
Neil “lordneon” Jones - Event Staff