Deepcut H3 Run No 652 Wednesday 4th December 1100 hrs
Headley Village Hall Rear Car Park, Arford Rd., Headley GU35 8LJ
Hare : Yellow Peril & French Leave
Hounds :
Following in the great tradition of the Annual Deepcut Christmas Run, this is this year’s offering.
Run (3.9m/6.2k – v diff in parts), Walk (2.25m/3.58k gentle), or Amble (1m/1.6k v easy) – maps provided as required – followed by a choice of the Wednesday Curry Club £8 Specials at The Hollybush thrown in, courtesy of Deepcut’s ever generous Hash Reserves.
Please choose from the curries beneath and confirm with Yellow Peril by the close of play on Monday 25th November at the latest what you’d like to eat and, if possible, whether you plan to run, walk or amble.
If you don’t fancy one of the curries, please confirm with YP if you’d just like a bowl of chips instead (or, at a pinch, something else altogether POA).
We’ve booked an area of the pub that comfortably fits at least 20 folk – above this number, we’ll be able to use an additional, but separate, small area. Or just hang around the bar, as per.
Good ales usually on tap.
NOTES ON RUN 650 ON WEDNESDAY 2 OCTOBER 2024
West Street, North Warnborough RG29 1PD
Hare : Yellow Peril (Yorkie replacement service)
Hounds : Bolshie, Cuddles, Dickhead, Kelinchi, Machinist, Petal, Sex Slave, Silvier (and Fifi)
"Nice village, not so nice mud"
"Really did enjoy the walk, views were lovely!"
"Great run for a Wednesday am start - Am I the only well person?"
"Piece of cake (that's if dad would let me eat it)"
"Lovely walk - great views"
"Brilliant run Yellow Peril! Loved it!"
"Great walk - nice charity shop & church. Thanks for the trail"
"New parts which surprised me. Well laid (ED : That is praise indeed!)"
"Best trail of the month" (YP)
And finally....
Hi Mark,
Thanks for a great trail, really enjoyed that as I was just in the mood for an endorphin top-up!
Bit's of Odiham we haven't used before, or not for many years. Some of the cottages around there make me very jealous!
I hope you get better soon.
DH
NOTES ON RUN 649 Wednesday 4th August 2024
Darby Green Centre GU17 0DX
Hare : French Leave
Hounds : Bolshie, Cuddles, Damp Patch, Dickhead, Hanging About, Mountain Rescue, Petal, Sex Slave, Silvier, Squiffy, Yellow Peril and Yorkie (12)
Report and Comments : Described as "a compact and bijou" run by the Hare, French Leave treated us to a thoroughly enjoyable, cunning and craftily laid trail over some familiar territory (in parts), but still had us guessing for much of the trail. Despite being under 4 miles, the hounds still took nearly an hour to complete the trail.
ON-INN : "Please bring own drinks, seat, crisps and picnic" - we did as instructed, and a good time was had by all, thank you.
"Perfect length" seemed to be the consensus view, as we polished off the edible remnants of the NH4 Mysterty Tour crisps (funnily enough, no-one seemed interested in the Prawn Cocktail flavour).
Well done French Leave!
Comments
"Thank you! Just right!"
"Enjoyable trail. Nice weather"
"Lovely! Thank you xx"
"Not enough three blob checks. Too fast" (ED : I don't know, there's no pleasing some folk. So please show us how to do it then, young man)
"Well marked scenic trail"
"Too fast for a cripple"
"Really nice walk!"
NOTES ON RUN 648 ON WEDNESDAY 7 AUGUST 24
Wharf Car Park Odiham
HARE: Silvier and Fifi
HOUNDS: Caboose, Cuddles (Birthday Girl), Dickhead, Easy Rider, Ever Ready, Fanny Sniffer, Machinist, Mountain Rescue, Petal, Sex Slave, Squiffy, Yellow Peril, Yorkie (14, plus Fifi)
A great trail, just shy of four miles, no canal work, and, for once, no linearity for which previous runs have been notorious (HOORAH).
With a cunning bit of misdirection right from the start, the Hare led us a merry dance back up towards Odiham, soon turning east through the new housing on Colt Hill, dropping down through the associated estate ‘parkland’. It was then over to Broad Oak, past Nicky Haslam’s old pile (Who he? An old Etonian, natch, old boy, and interior designer to the rich and famous, obviously not us, then). After leaving an attractive RG by the water-lilies, and avoiding a cunning circuit round the pond (“you’re not fooling us with that gratuitous pond malarkey” moaned Yellow Peril), the FRBs quickly made their way round the back of Haslam’s folly to find a series of craftily positioned checks in the woods of Odiham Common, from where we eventually made our way back, past Squiffy’s old family pile, to the Waterwitch for some eagerly awaited beers, only to find there wasn’t any ale on tap.
No worry, you know how patient the hounds can be (not very), a new barrel was found at the back of the cellar, the pipes flushed, and we were soon rewarded with some surprisingly tasty pints of Greene King Golden Ale some 15 minutes later.
Cuddles generously provided a load of chips and spicey sweet potatoes all round. “What, no cake?” cried another old Etonian. “No” said Cuddles firmly “I’m making one on Monday”.
So there you have it, yet again a thoroughly enjoyable outing for the Hounds of DH3, courtesy of Silvier.
Well done and many thanks Hare,
NOTES ON RUN 647 ON WEDNESDAY 3 JULY 24
Lea Coach Road car park, Witley Common. GU8 5NZ
HARE: Dickhead
HOUNDS: Bolshie, Cuddles, Machinist, Petal, Pole F, Sex Slave, Silvier Fox, Yellow Peril, Yorkie and Fifi (10, plus Hash Hobbit).
Dickhead provided the Deepcut faithful with a great trail this month on Witley Common. Craftily designed, including a lot of challenging one blob checks with multiple paths in each and every direction. Thankfully, we had five supremely fit FRB's (plus Fifi) all keen, as ever, to check out the numerous, and cunning, false trails. We got back to the RV in no time at all for some very welcome beers on a shady woodland path and a chance to munch on Cuddles' delicious rock buns. As to what the walkers got up to, your scribe has absolutely no idea. Thank you Hare, and thank you Cuddles.
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Midsummer Special and
NOTES ON RUN 646 ON WEDNESDAY 5 JUNE 24
Mountain Rescue's Farewell Hash
Lightwater Country Park, The Avenue, Lightwater GU18 5RG
HARE: Bolshie, Machinist
HOUNDS: 3/4d, Black Label, Bolton Bollocks, Caboose, Cuddles, Damp Patch, Dickhead, Dodo, Easy Rider, Ever Ready, Fairy Snow, Fanny Sniffer, Fuggles, Hanging About, Hippo, Janet ‘n John, Little Rabbit, Mole, Mountain Rescue, Seema, Seis Matters,
Sex Slave, Shrinky Dink, Silvier, Viva Espania, Yellow Peril, Yorkie (29).
Richard "Mountain Recue" McAllister enjoys his last hash at Lightwater Country Park after more than 60 years of hashing. Richard started hashing during the 'troubles' in Malaya and Brunei in 1963 and organised the first ever hash in Britain at Longmoor Camp in 1969.
What a great trail and thoroughly enjoyable ON INN afterwards - well done Hares and many thanks to Machinist for the generous hospitality.
NOTES ON RUN 644 ON WEDNESDAY 4 APR 24
The Green by St Mary’s Infant School, Frensham GU10 3DS
HARE: Yellow Peril
HOUNDS: Bolshie, Caboose, Chastity Belt, Cuddles, Dickhead, Easy Rider, Ever Ready (Bag Carrier), Headplant, Isnees, Kelinchi, Machinist, Mountain Rescue, Nutcracker, Petal, Sex Slave, Silvier, Simple, Squiffy, Yorkie
Plus 3 x 4-legged things : Fifi, Wednesday and Pepper
Having reccied the trail with YP the previous week, Ever Ready patiently and very kindly led the walkers and earned the well-deserved title of Bag Carrier.
A chilly and blustery afternoon found a sizeable pack, including some Deepcut virgins, gathering on the green at Frensham Lane End. Our hare began to wax lyrical about what a wonderful trail he had in store for us, the best trail ever, etc, until drowned out by cries of “We’ll be the judge of that!” from the pack, and we on-outed towards the woods – and mercifully some respite from the wind.
The runners trail took us up to and along the ridge of Frensham Common with its glorious views before looping back around the Little Pond, with several more wooded sections and a regroup by the water’s edge, some crafty changes of direction keeping us guessing all the while. Then up and over the ridge and across the main road, skirting the beach at the Great Pond it was back into the woods and home, where the walkers made a timely reappearance.
Squiffy made a valiant attempt to enjoy some balmy Mediterranean sunshine while quaffing a beverage in accordance with the hare’s fair-weather intentions, but the rest of us were unconvinced and made a beeline for the cosiness of the Holly Bush in Shortfield Common, where the Bowman ales were on fine form.
A splendid trail indeed – many thanks Yellow Peril.
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YP imparts hash wisdom
NOTES ON RUN 643 ON WEDNESDAY 6 MAR 24
Thursley Cricket Pitch CP GU8 6QA
HARE: Yorkie
HOUNDS: 3/4d, Black Label and Seema, Bolshie, Caboose, Dickhead, Easy Rider, Ever Ready, Fifi (WOOF), Machinist, Mountain Rescue, Viva Espania, Yellow Peril
A cunningly designed trail in fantastic weather, combining several areas with a remarkable number of near vertical inclines. "For ****'s sake, Yorkie" said one old-timer, as the hardy hashers attempted yet another and, thankfully, the last of the slopes.
"That'll do for the report" said another.
NOTES ON RUN 642 ON WEDNESDAY 7 FEB 24
FROM THE WHITE HART PUB, HOLYBOURNE, ALTON
SU 736409 requires.tech.crockery
HARES: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox) and Sarah Nagle (Petal)
HOUNDS: Steve Booker (Dickhead), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), John Hirst (Machinist), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), ,Luke Ripley (Caboose), Les Salmon (Ever Ready)., Pip Hocking (Nutctacker), Aaron Hocking (Headplanter), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Anticipating a wet run the turnout was surprisingly pleasing. At the start, the Hare warned that after the overnight rain we were left with the trail in parts very, very slippery. The trail soon left the urban roads and set off for the mainly fields and plenty of the warned mud. Yorkie summed it up briefly - Cold, damp, muddy slippery. Enjoyable trail, difficult to follow in parts. The forecast rain did not show until all were safe and warm in the friendly pub.
Next:
6 Mar Yorkie
3 Apr Yellow Peril
1 May French Leave – The Spotted Cow, Lower Bourne, Farnham, GU10 3QT
NOTES ON RUN 641 ON WEDNESDAY 3 JAN 24
FROM PRESTWICK LANE, GRAYSWOOD, GU27 2DY
SU 923347 (W3W SHOPPIMG.BLEAKER.AMONG )
HARE: Steve Booker (Dickhead)
HOUNDS: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), John Hirst (Machinist), Mell Inkster (Lady Chatterley), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Simon Judd (3/4d), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy)and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
Thanks to YP for this comprehensive report. Anyone lucky enough to experience Dickhead’s Medstead trail back in November (Little Prick got famously stuck astride a particularly muddy stretch) might agree that it was a piece of cake in the shiggy stakes compared to the delightfully named areas of High Prestwick and Frillinghurst through which half a dozen intrepid Deepcut FRBs yomped this month, led by a relentless Yorkie checking out everything up hill and down dale as he strode off magnificently into the setting sun. Grunts of “Isn’t anyone else checking anything out?”. No, they weren’t, Yorkie was making such a terrific job of it, why spoil his fun? But as to the shiggy, it wasn’t as if we hadn’t been warned when we circled up for the briefing from the Hare.“Double knot your laces, if you value your boots” he said. Following the suctional loss of two boots on Longmoor in the mud a few days before (one was never retrieved), the hounds might have been suitably worried. It was as if Bette Davis, playing a past-her-prime actress, had just said and quote;”Fasten your seatbelts boys; it's going to be a bumpy ride.”or something along those lines. No-one would like to suggest that any of the hounds were past their prime,obviously. After gaining a hard-won 100’ up through a very squidgy field (probably the firmest bit of ground we were to encounter), the FRB’s enjoyed a remarkably fine view from High Prestwick back over towards Blackdown shortly before the first re-group by a fine set of farm buildings over which YP waxed lyrical for some reason. Off again, the FRB’s crossed a delightful private garden, followed by a field full of young fillies, then ran westwards down another muddy lane past an old C16th Surrey farmhouse (Grade 2 Listed ‘Hawlands’), with more lyrical waxing from YP as we watched Yorkie somewhere in the distance making his way down to Frillinghurst Farm and the rapidly increasing levels of shiggy,streams, ponds and puddles of Frillinghurst Woods. Past the Grayswood sewage works and a short stretch of road, we were quickly back at the RV for some very welcome mulled wine courtesy of Squiffy (brandy reinforced) and YP (cheap and cheerful).
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable run – it was a proper hash and a great start to the New Year. Sadl;y, Action Man had managed to deposit one of his running shoes somewhere in the mud and had to limp home along the stoney road.
Happy New Year to all our readers.
Next: 7 Feb Silvier Fox
6 Mar Yorkie
3 Apr Yellow Peril
NOTES ON RUN 640 ON WEDNESDAY 6 DEC 23
FROM THE BAT AND BALL, WRECCLESHAM
HARES: Colin (French Leave) and Lesley (No Idea) Crofts
HOUNDS: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), John Hirst (Machinist), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Briton (Cuddles), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Tim Dodd (Hanging About), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy) and Dianne Barnes( DonTwannanamE).
The warning of possible car parking difficulties was proven incorrect and there was room for all and many others. The weather was good for a change – not too cold and pleasantly sunny. There were three groups, runners, fast walkers and slow walkers and we all set off together, departing over the stream bridge and up the steps. Up and up they went, getting no easier by changing step height. At the top it was, of course, downhill and soon the party was spread out. And so it continued along many narrow slopes accompanied by the sound of the rushing, gushing stream. A bit of road walking followed by penetration into woodland along narrow, muddy paths, It was all good to be out in the countryside.
Once back at the pub we were accommodated in a separate area where the buffet food soon appeared (and disappeared fairly well, too). Many thanks go to our hares for not only laying on a good trail but organising a good party after the exercise A Happy Christmas wish to all our readers.
Merry Christmas to all our Hashers and hopes for a
Happy New Year
Future Hashes:
3 Jan Dickhead
7 Feb Silvier Fox
6 Mar Yorkie
3 Apr Yellow Peril
There are those who know how to pose and there are others.
NOTES ON RUN 639 ON WEDNESDAY 2 NOV 23
THE JUBILEE TAP IN SELBORNE ( formerly QUEENS' HOTEL)
HARES: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and Anna Elder (Janet'n John) with Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) as Designer, Consultant, Hare and Layer of the trail
HOUNDS: John Elder (Seis Matters), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), John Hirst (Machinist), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Briton (Cuddles), Alan Jewel (Easy Rider), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Tim Dodd (Hanging About) and Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox) DNS but joined us in the Tap.
It was a surprisingly large turnout for a run with a forecast of hurricane force winds and torrential rain, however, the teeth of storm Ciarán were well and truly pulled before it reached us; we didn't even get wet, or rather only our feet but what do you expect when you run through a river. We were treated to a three way course of Runner, Walker and Short Walker. The runners set off apace leaving those short walkers under command of JnJ who gave us a choice – either do a Yorkie or wade through the water. It was not a difficult decision to make and so we did a Yorkie which led us up to the top of the hill and down again and back to the warmth of The Tap Room where an array of local beers were ready and waiting together with cheesy crisps. It wasn't too long before the runners got back having been thoroughly drenched after their wading. It was a very jolly gathering. MR
On a difficult day for hashing due to the adverse weather and consequent trail obliteration, a group of four runners plus Yorkie as mountain guide started from the Jubilee Taproom and made their way along Selborne High Street towards the ‘other pub’. With the washed-out trail causing much confusion, the on was called and the ‘pack’ made its way to the base of the zigzag. Much checking ensued until Dickhead called the on, yes, up the zigzag. At this point a loud moaning was heard although it could have been just the wind.
The first regroup at the top of the zigzag was followed by a check-back which led along Selborne Hanger and from there to the path which leads directly back to Gracious Street. The trail turned west, disappointing one or two of the pack who probably thought they may be getting a shortened trail.
With trail markings sparse in places and Seis Matters using his considerable local knowledge, the pack skirted Coneycroft Hill and climbed back towards Selborne Common. At this point, both Hanging About and Bolshie were spotted disappearing into the distance having determined that the trail would lead in the general direction of ‘up’. They were wrong, the pack descended to Gracious Street only to find the second regroup.
Leaving the regroup, our gallant pack slipped and slid their way through the fields down to Gracious Street (again). Yorkie, describing to the pack how he nearly slipped and fell from a stile during the recce, promptly fell of the same stile, landing in a wet muddy mess. Gracious Street provided a small flood which we had cross , not that it really mattered by this stage, becoming wetter and muddier was simply impossible. Climbing to and re-crossing Selborne Road, we lost SM who needed to return to the taproom. The remaining three plus chaperone returned to the Jubilee via another check-back, some very wet fields and a slippery climb to the churchyard.
Wet, muddy, partially washed out trail, but very enjoyable. Y
NEXT
6 Dec French Leave - Christmas Bash
3 Jan Dickhead
7 Feb Silvier Fox
6 Mar Yorkie
3 Apr Yellow Peril
NOTES ON RUN 638 ON WEDNESDAY 4 OCTOBER 23
College Ride, Bagshot GU19 5EW
HARE: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
HOUNDS: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), John Hirst (Machinist), Alan Jewel (Easy Rider). Luke Ripley (Caboose), Mez Nevin (Pole F###er) and Anne Holland (Cloggs).
In ideal Hashing weather, the brief from Yorkie was that the trail was laid in sawdust, flour, and chalk and was about 4.2 miles. The walkers were given a map of the short cuts on the two mile trail and all set off. The walkers trail was largely through super woodland and some open areas recently cleared of many trees while the runners could be heard in the distance. Everyone got back safe and sound happily pleased with the trail and, wonder upon wonder, YP was the first one home. At The Foresters there was a very happy and jovial gathering with delightful beer which was quaffed with great relish as were the chips produced which should have been awarded 10 out 10 but YP who (paid for them) did not believe in perfection so they were awarded 9. Then came a great bowl of Mexican or Spanish eaty-bits that were also delicious. So thanks to the hare and food providers.
NEXT Thanks to Yellow Peril for his persuasive skills (or bullying?)
2 Nov THURSDAY Yellow Peril – Selborne (including beer tasting and snacks. See details).
6 Dec French Leave - Christmas Bash 3 Jan Dickhead 7 Feb Silvier Fox 6 Mar Yorkie 3 Apr Yellow Peril
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NOTES ON RUN 637 ON WEDNESDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 23
FROM Shortfield Common, Frensham, GU10 3BH
Hare : Yellow Peril
Hounds : Bolshie, Cuddles, Damp Patch, Dickhead, Hanging About, Headplant, Mountain Rescue, Nutcracker, Petal, Primate, Seis Matters, Sex Slave, Silvier, Yorkie
A happy band of 14 hashers (hare plus 13) gathered on a hot and humid afternoon at Shortfield Common to be regaled by Yellow Peril with tales of guerrilla gardening and limbo dancing. From this description your scribe assumes he found some magic mushrooms. The trail was further described as ‘under 4 miles’, possibly correct if you come from an alternative universe with different physical laws. With YP anything is possible.
The trail began towards the cricket pitch, at which point hounds could be seen checking all possible directions….except the right one. Following a loop towards the River Wey, YP treated us to the results of his gardening exploits, a rough path leading to the A287 at Millbridge. At this point, Hanging About, demonstrating a distinct lack of flexibility, discovered limbo dancing was not compulsory and hopped the fence.
The trail continued along Priory Lane to Frensham Common and via several tricky checks to a welcome regroup in a shady location overlooking Frensham Little Pond. I say regroup, but it was more like a photo opportunity, proven when SS stared into the back of his phone for some time before declaring ‘that will do I suppose’. DH3s very own David Bailey!
Leaving the regroup, the pack negotiated more bxxxxy sandy trails and having climbed the ridge (over the hill, like most hashers), we descended and recrossed the A287 towards Frensham Great Pond.
More tricky checks over very pleasant, if hot heathland, gave way to the delights of Frensham Village where a check took us through the churchyard and provided YP with the opportunity to point out a specific gargoyle. I’m unsure why, but I don’t think it was too complimentary.
The cunning loop through the churchyard was followed by a regroup at the River Wey. Yet more unnecessary posing ensued with SS once again staring at his phone looking puzzled. Not too surprising given the subject matter.
From the regroup it was a quick return to our start point where the walkers were already seated and picnicking. After very necessary rehydration with a refreshing beer, the pack dispersed, to meet once more in October.
Meanwhile, the walkers went……somewhere?
NOTES ON RUN 636 ON WEDNESDAY 2 AUGUST 23
FROM THE WHITE HART, HOLYBOURNE, ALTON
HARES: Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier)
HOUNDS: John Hirst (Machinist), Annie To (NNY), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), Margaret Gibson (Viva Espania), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave),
John Elder (Seis Matters), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Tam Paramjit (Blue Label), Seema Paramjit (NNY), Michael Weeks, (Dog Bite) and Mary Lou Weeks (Gorganzola), Les Salmon (Ever Ready). (19 plus Fifi)
The weather forecast was not good and nor was a lot of the weather with plenty of drizzle and proper rain, followed by brilliant sunshine that dried just in time to get another soaking. We welcomed Michael and Mary Lou Weeks who introduced themselves. The trail was well laid and took us through varied and interesting areas from urban to well wooded areas with some steep mountaineering, along narrows paths beside sheer high drops down to the fast flowing river, open countryside and lots of playing fields. On the way there were some alpacas in a field, one of which took a liking to MR and gave him a kiss before following him on the other side of the fence. Later there was a milky pond full of ducks. So, all in all, a good interesting trail followed by good beer under the awning of the White Hart.
NEXT
6 Sep Yellow Peril - Shortfield Common, Frensham, GU10 3BH
4 Oct Yorkie
RUN : 635
RV : Hare & Hounds, Brentmoor Road, Donkey Town GU24 9QG
HARES : Machinist, with bag carriers Fanny Sniffer and Mole (Kimi)
HOUNDS : Annie, Bolshie, Caboose, Fifi, Master Bates (Ron), Mother Brown (Briain), Mountain Rescue, Petal, Silvier, Squiffy, Viva Espana, Yellow Peril, Yorkie (12 plus Fifi)
With only minutes to spare, it looked as if there was going to be a distinct lack of hounds, but suddenly, as Squiffy hoved into view and Caboose emerged from the west (he’d been exploring the line of the old Bisley Bullet, allegedly) the pack expanded exponentially, such that 13 of us set off on what promised to be a thoughtful and carefully planned run of 1, 2, 3 or 4 miles, with a beer and pretzel stop somewhere near the halfway mark (hoorah!).
Running over a lot of new and very attractive territory, the pack ran at a fast pace across Sandpit Hill, skirted New England to explore Cuckoo Hill and then veer south over Brentmoor Heath, and down towards Bisley Common and the Bisley Ranges where we promptly got lost, and which it seems the Hares had also done at this point by helpfully laying a short section of parallel off-piste trails.
Back together again, the pack gradually made its way back to the On Inn where well-kept pints of Badger were enjoyed in the garden.
“A proper run” said Yorkie.
Many thanks go to the Hare and bag carriers for a thoroughly enjoyable trail (1hr 12mins/4.65m approx.) and for organising the much-enjoyed beer stop (Boddington’s Best and water for Fifi).
NOTES ON RUN 634 ON WEDNESDAY 5 JULY 23
FROM EWSHOT VILLAGE HALL, GU10 5BG
Hare: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
Hounds: Caboose, Cuddles, Petal, Dickhead, Sex Slave, Silvier, Yellow Peril and Fifi
7 keen Deepcut runners and Fifi met at Ewshott Rec. this week for a Masterclass from a recognised leader in the field of how to arrange ‘a proper hash’ with terrific chips (9.5), good beer and a great On Inn (The Windmill); perfect weather with sunshine and clouds, open countryside, woodland, dappled shade, hills, and a peppering of architectural highlights.
Following a commendable briefing, the runners veered off with foolish confidence only to find very quickly that they’d got it completely wrong.
The headless chickens eventually found the cleverly laid trail circling the rec. and made their way towards Pilridden Copse and Quetta Park, Soane’s Park, a bit of Redfields and a craftily hidden path past horses and Stiller’s Farm, back through Riddings Copse, up hill again for some wonderful views across the Thames Valley, and, after a final push through some more woodland and the famous Ewshott Pill Boxes, we were home.
At just under 4 miles, allegedly, it took the pack 1 hr 20 mins to negotiate a thoroughly enjoyable, cunning and craftily-designed trail – well done and many thanks to the Hare.
Yorkie was overheard saying afterwards “Oh, I just threw it together”.
Mmmmm…..
NEXT
19 Jul John Hirst (Machinist)
NOTES ON RUN 633 ON WEDNESDAY 21 JUNE 23
FROM WYNDHAM'S POOL, YATELEY : GU46 6AW
Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Devon Soane (NNY), John Elder (Seis Matters) and Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox) and FiFi
Once again the sun shone upon a happy pack of runners and walkers amongst very green trees and lush undergrowth around the lake and beyond. After a lengthy absence, FL was back to lay a marvellous trail full of cunning and twists and included some hill work. It was after the return gathering that YP's generosity came into great play. He had decided to celebrate 633 Sqn RAF (the Dam Busters for the ignorant) and provided for us all lots of free beer served up in jam jars and great masses of crisps, supported by Cuddles who had again produced a large quantity of her delicious rock cakes. 'Twas a great way to finish a splendid outing in the countryside.
NEXT
5 Jul Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
19 Jul John Hirst (Machinist)
NOTES ON RUN 632 ON WEDNESDAY 7 JUNE 23
Selborne Rec.
Hares: Seis Matters, Janet'n John)
Apologies: Mountain Rescue
Runners: Dickhead, Machinist, Silvier, Yellow Peril, Yorkie and Jan Earney (New Visitor and Selborne Virgin).
A tragically fatal accident involving a 79-year-old man from Tongham behind the wheel of a vintage Frazer Nash in collision with a Suzuki Alto near the Hen and Chicken meant that the A31 was closed in both directions for several hours on Wednesday afternoon. Consequently, the Hare thoughtfully delayed the start for 10 minutes to allow for any further late-comers. Allegedly, Yorkie and YP had both taken over an hour to get to the RV, negotiating the jammed and crowded single track back lanes north and south of the A31. Eventually, Machinist arrived and we were called to circle up.
Hash die back, Irish Lumberjacks….the puns came thick and fast (Dickhead was there, obvs). It turned out that the Hare (an ever-patient Seis Matters) was, in fact, attempting to brief the hounds about Ash dieback (he’d had to move the 2nd re-group to avoid everyone being crushed under a creaking and crashing ash apparently) and something about three woodcutters (that’s the Irish bit, geddit?! ) (Oh Dickhead, just shut up for once will you? You’re getting as bad as YP). However, and as we all know, attempting to control an unusually unruly pack keen to clamber over the hanger and get to the On Inn (it was a very hot afternoon after all) is pretty much a lost cause. So, having welcomed our new visitor and virgin, Jan from Selborne (Hoorah!), and explained the markings laid out for our edification next to the circle, we were off, the elite of Deepcut’s finest.
We made our way up the side of the hanger until we ran into some very freshly wired up permissive gates and signs saying PRIVATE LAND. These had gone up within the hour that had passed since the Hare had laid the trail. A surprised labourer carried on with his wires and signs while we flew past unfazed, unperturbed and probably illegally.
A thoroughly enjoyable and cunning trail by SM took us through any number of twists and turns of territory that somehow seemed very familiar, but cleverly tricked us at almost every check. All was not quite what it seemed as we made our way up and over the hanger, off-piste and back again, past some cattle, and with some more ups, more downs, some peripheral vision snickets and McAllister bifurcations, we were eventually back in Gracious Street where the Hare took a wonderfully welcome, impromptu and unilateral decision to introduce a spontaneous beer stop at The Selborne Arms where he very generously bought everyone a beer. We approve of that arrangement!
Meanwhile, co-Hare Anna guided Machinist round the Walker’s Route which, as far we could tell, involved a pleasant ramble to the Selborne Arms.
The choice of beers was so good and the shade of the beer garden so cool, there was no particular rush to get back to the RV. Yorkie and DH were so laid back by the time they made it to the Rec, a Captain Tom Moore lookalike overtook them on his walking stick, twice.
A great afternoon – three cheers for the Hare (and many thanks for the beers).
NOTES ON RUN 631 ON WEDNESDAY 24 MAY 23
Car Park off the Maultway GU15 1PW
Hares : Bolshie and Viva Espana
Hounds: 3/4d, Black Label and Seema, Cuddles, Dickhead, Fanny Sniffer, Lady Chatterley, Machinist and Annie, Mole, Sex Slave, Sony Tone, Yellow Peril and Yorkie (17 in all)
Apologies
Mountain Rescue and Ever Ready (2)
NOTES
Sunny, warm and a great turn-out. What more could you want? A great trail? Yup – and we got it in spades.
Numerous serpentine paths and cycle tracks led us from the Maultway, before a tantalising glimpse of the water tower in the distance and a steep path leading us down through almost tropical-looking woodlands full of Kowloon and Hong Kong explorers appropriately dressed for just such an expedition. We understand the topees and machetes had been left at home. Crossing the big field, we made our way towards the Bagshot outskirts, crossed over the M3 into Lightwater Country Park where the walkers split off. Zigzagging over Bagshot Heath, the runners finally reached the dizzy heights of High Curley where they re-grouped, admired the view, took a photo and checked out the escape route.
The Hare then took us through a tangle of paths in the vehicle testing area in the general direction of the tunnel under the motorway. Cleverly laid checks and peripheral vision tracks kept the pack together, apart from a surprisingly wayward Dickhead who went backwards after the steep and rapid descent from the re-group. He must have got the bends, as he wasn’t seen again for some time, and not until everyone else had returned to base and were organising search parties (allegedly).
Bolshie and Viva Espana produced a wonderfully fresh and cleverly designed trail from a familiar RV that kept the runners guessing and, in the case of the walkers gassing, right to the end – well done and many thanks to the Hares.
An excellent selection of beers ended the day in the beer garden at The Foresters where we chatted about the continued lack of Hares and where we might go on June 21st Winchester for the Kowloon Hash? Somewhere local to Deepcut for a picnic – Wyndham’s Pool? Come back French Leave, all is forgiven! Unfortunately, Sony Tone missed the On Inn car park and went home. Dickhead almost did the same.
NOTES ON RUN 629 ON WEDNESDAY 26 APR 23
St John the Baptist church lay-by in Windlesham GU20 6BL
(GR 493163 moves.crate.spine)
Hare: John Hirst (Machinist)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril ), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), Margaret Gibson (Viva Espania), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Alstair Gilbert (Sqyiffy), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Annie To (NNY) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
The sun shone on a happy pack of fewer runners than walkers and it was great to be in a new area by a fine-looking church. Squiffy returned from wherever he'd been and Caboose arrived in his inimitable style as if from nowhere... It was a cunningly devised trail that started through a built up area but we were quickly into the open countryside where there were many paths, some dry some not. After an impressive flying start, the FRBs were confronted by a water feature designed to deceive and mis-direct, which it did with great success. It was not long before the walkers spotted the runners running way off course and called them back – no response so they were called again and again until in discordance and very loudly walker-yelling the FRBs realised their error. Back they trotted until they came to the flood where some got wet feet and gave YP the chance to complain. It was at this point that Squiffy decided to leave the FRBs and join the walkers. This left just four hardy perennials (Yorkie, Bolshie, Caboose and Yellow Peril) to complete the course. There were certainly some very good views and some road work, a bit of woodland, newer housing estates with a typical spaghetti road layout worthy of Church Crookham and a play area.
All too soon the pack found themselves in The Half Moon. Good beer, marvellous drinks and fantastic chips which gained 10 out of 10 on the Chip Chart. However, £5.10 for a small bottle of zero alcohol almost had YP in virtual apoplexy to the point of making him take up drink again - which he promptly did; he allegedly had a pint of Guiness or three back at The Hare and Hounds in Rowledge.
OnOn
NEXT
10 May
24 May VOLUNTEERS PLEASE
7 Jun
NOTES ON RUN 628 ON WEDNESDAY 12 APR 23
Stoney Castle Camping Ground, Curzon Bridges
.
Hare: Yellow Peril
Hounds: Bolshie, Cuddles, Dickhead, Ever Ready, Fifi, LBF Machinist, Petal, Sex Slave, Silvier, and Yorkie
Despite a dire forecast of desperately cold temperatures, driving rain, thick cloud, 50mph gusts of wind and the kitchen sink, 5 FRBs, 4 SCBs and a dog turned out to experience Yellow Peril’s Birthday Run from Stoney Castle Camping Ground (last visited for a Deepcut New Year’s Day run a couple of years back?). Apologies were received and noted from Mountain Rescue and Seis Matters. Post-event apologies from French Leave arrived by e-pigeon the next day. SFA from everyone else.
After a commendably and unusually short briefing from YP…. “Usual shit, 2 re-groups, 3.8m and SCBs follow the blue dots after they leave the runners trail” (the wind was biting, we were freezing and the hounds displayed an insatiable appetite to get moving), Bolshie and Machinist arrived just in time to increase the attendance by a welcome 20%.
The On-Out was a 3-blobber and the FRBs hurtled off keenly, so much so, they missed the first turn. But Silvier demonstrated his bloodhound skills and quickly disappeared down another false trail to the stream. Gathered together again, the hounds circled the pill box, crossed under the rail bridge and it was then up to Curzon Bridge with Dickhead disappearing somewhere else. The route then followed the Southern Region down line by Hodge Bottom before a peripheral path led to a tricky serpentine circuit of old trenches and a couple of erotics (or maybe erratics – take your pick). From then on, much guessing meant that Silvier ended up running 5¼ miles (allegedly) and Yorkie a mere 4¾ miles. What the rest of us did is anyone’s guess. Fifi behaved admirably and looked after Petal, who valiantly played back-sweeper for the day.
Uphill, downhill, off-piste, animal trails, watery paths. More uphill, downhill and finally, after crossing Tunnel Hill, a re-group with a view with speculation as to what it was we were looking at. “A distant horizon and some trees” came the witty rejoinder. This was, after all, the elite crew. The sun was out by now, the wind had died down and the runners were in their stride. It was mostly downhill from then on until Dickhead went off somewhere else again looking for a non-existent trail the other side of the mid-way railway bridge. Back over Hodge Brook Branch Road, we finally made it into the soft forest floor above Congo Stream and a chicken wire covered log bridge largely submerged under the rising river levels. Undeterred, Fifi showed great bravery and flew across towards Silvier’s entreaties and back up to the camping ground and On-In for Easter eggs and birthday cake before setting off to the Rose and Thistle for a welcome drink or two.
The walkers almost followed the blue dots and arrows helpfully laid for them by the Hare.
It then started to rain and the wind got up.
NOTES ON RUN 627 ON WEDNESDAY 29 MAR 23
FROM – CROOKSBURY HILL
(GR
878457 , w3w unloading.overt.suitcase)
Hare: Steve Booker (Dickhead)
Hounds: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie ), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), John Elder (Seis Matters), John Hirst (Machinist), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Fifi Nagle (the dog), Tam Paramjit (Blue Label), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and later Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) and nearly Aaron Hocking (Headplant).
At least it didn't actually rain and was warmer than some recent days. The pack departed almost on time and went straight into the surrounding woods. The paths were relatively good and well marked. Initially, both packs covered the same ground but the runners had quickly parted from the walkers. At a junction, trails split where the runners set off on a big loop. For both, there were hills that were quite steep and the surrounding forestry made for pleasant moves. Then the runners caught up with the walkers who by now were struggling up a very steep and long climb. The reward was a final re-group at the top of Crooksbury Hill with a wonderful long view of a mist-shrouded distant horizon but sadly the sun was not shining. This was a good really enjoyable Dickhead classic trail. When we got back to the car park we found YP's car. He had returned from a funeral and set off on his own and after a few small problems (like losing the trail three times) was back after just 40 minutes when he joined us at the Princess Royal for a very welcome beer and a good chat.
Sadly, the following morning news came that Headplant had just missed us at the start by five minutes. YP's car was not there and he did not recognise our cars so thought he had probably gone wrong and did not join us .
OnOn
NEXT
12 Apr – Yellow Peril -TBN
26 Apr – Machinist - TBN
NOTES ON RUN 626 ON WEDNESDAY 15 MAR 23
FROM – SANDY HILL ROAD, FARNHAM, GU9 0EW
(GR 840494, w3w
successes.lighters.lobbed)
Hare: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Steve Booker (Dickhead). Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), Chris Holmes (Headley Hound), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), and Brian Langford (Cyclone) .
The morning was a sunny, bright and warm start to the day but it didn't last. By afternoon it was distinctly cool and overcast with a dampness in the air. While MR return his Hash Book to this car Yorkie briefed the participants. The runners set of at a good speed while the walkers split in to two groups. The first set off leaving MR to catch up with the dawdling pair slowing for him. Near the start we found a check and decided that going down the steep hill was not a good thing. We thought we heard a call from the front and the flash of a possible runner but that was the last of contact. Meanwhile, the runners were finding a well laid cunning trail that was tricky.
The walkers were soon back at the cars to await the arrival of the runners. They waited, waited and waited longer and still longer. It started to rain but there was no sight nor sound of the runners. Debate of going or not going to the Alma before we got too wet led to a discussion on where the pubs were near and that started reminiscing about all the pubs that were in the area some years ago. The consensus was that the Alma was just so attractive at that point. Still there was no sign of the runners and they weren't answering the phone queries . Apparently they had finished at the Windmill pub, a long way from their parked cars, and none, not one of the walkers had heard Yorkie's briefing about that...
Thanks to Yorkie for another trail to keep us going and more Hares wanted please...
OnOn
NEXT
29 Mar - Steve Booker (Dickhead) - TBN
NOTES ON RUN 625 ON WEDNESDAY 1 MAR 23
FROM - BOURNE WOOD, TILFORD, GU10 2BH
GR 973648 crib.such.love
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds:, John Hirst (Machinist),Tam Paramjit (Blue Label), Seema Paramjit (NNY), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier), Fifi (the dog), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), John Hirst (Machinist), Annie To (NNY) and Aaron Hocking (Headplant).
Cold and overcast was the weather which left YP shivering after finishing laying his trail. However, a hardy bunch turned up at the other Bourne Woods cp and in an unusual turn of events, it took your scribe less than an hour to get there and Squiffy actually arrived before the run started!
Surprisingly, a slightly dog-eared VW Polo arrived and the rarely-seen Headplant alighted sans his mother as she has just had a new knee. (That’s Hashing for you; do it long enough and many other bits will need replacing). Apparently, there was some film set construction going on in the woods, so a security man was guarding a barrier holding a gun, or possibly a smart phone. Whatever, he looked mean dude.
MR called order and Hare YP explained the trail, seemingly 3.8 miles (untrue) and uphill (very true), and off we went, avoiding the guard and immediately getting off trail. This was the start of this scribe getting the first seven checks - completely wrong!
The trail progressed in a vaguely northerly direction through woodland before crossing the Bourne stream. Yorkie and Headplant started off well, although the latter faded towards the end, proving experience over yoof, especially when vertiginous climbs were encountered.
We then had to ascend the appropriately named Old Man's Hill. Petal was sent back as she plainly fitted into neither category. After a couple of miles (seemed much longer), the familiar sight of Bourne Rec hoved into view. If only we had started at the usual car park, we’d be back now. But no, the trail turned south and then, inevitably up that bloody hill towards Alice Holt Forest, where the Hare threw in an extra uphill bit, only to descend 100 yards later. Nasty man! In the distance, we saw a strange platform built into the hillside that looked like something overgrown Lemmings might use to meet their sticky end, or perhaps a hang glider launch pad? Dunno, watch Netflix sometime when the film is aired! So, onward and upward back into Bourne Woods with Silvier now off the leash (i.e. FiFi let loose) running away somewhere, or somewhere else. The ‘Inn’ was spotted and there was Mean Dude to welcome us home. GPS tracker watchware said 4.7 miles; that’s 3.8 flat + 0.9 uphill!
Walkers got back eventually, including Squiffy some time later….! Then it was off to the Spotted Cow and drink a wonderful Alton Pride, whilst freezing our nuts off by sitting outside. Who’s idea was that?
Thanks YP (again) and ON-ON.
OnOn
NEXT
5 Mar - Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
29 Mar - Steve Booker (Dickhead)
NOTES ON RUN 624 ON WEDNESDAY 15 FEB 23
FROM STAPLE HILL CAR PARK, CHOBHAM, CHERTSEY, KT16 0ED
(SU SU 97360 64882 ) crib.such.love
Hare: Jim Gibson (Bolshie)
Hounds:, John Hirst (Machinist),Tam Paramjit {Blue Label) ,Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Steve Booker (Dickhead). Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier), Fifi (the dog), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Tim Dodd (Hanging About), Margaret Gibson (Viva Espania), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Annie To (NNY) and Bill Prescott (Bolton Bollocks).
This was Bolshie's first trail for DH3 and what a good job he did of it. He even had delightful sunny weather in an attractive area with great views of the surrounding areas, dappled light in sylvan woodlands (according to Hanging About. It was a very well marked trail of a reasonable distance. On the way, the pack was challenged by Gurkha security guards who wanted to know what was going on. They were guarding a very posh, large building that turned out to be a home of the Sultan of Dubai. Once the guards heard what this motley group was all about, all was well and further progress was made. Bolshie had even arranged a guard of honour at every twist and turn as we ran though the manicured grassed parklands of Longross House, past geese filled ponds and up the main drive (the Sultan was in residence, apparently, but didn’t ask us in for tea! The final uphill finish to the trail left most fairly breathless. All in all, a brilliant four mile trail in lots of new territory, really well planned and expertly laid to keep us on our toes. Then it was on to The Four Horseshoes for a convivial gathering (and beer)...
On On
NEXT
1 Mar - Good question, badly answered TBN
???HARES WANTED??? and volunteers for the future
NOTES ON RUN 623 ON WEDNESDAY 1 FEB 23
FROM THE FROG, 1 MINDENHURST, DEEPCUT BRIDGE ROAD
(SU 904569 ) wicked.lyricism.tribes
Hares:
John Hirst (Machinist) and Tam Paramjit (Blue Label)Hounds:, Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), MarkWestcott (Yellow Peril), Les Salmon(Ever Ready) Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), Steve Booker (Dickhead). Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Tony Soane ((Sony Tone) and Brian Langford (Cyclone).
The pack waited with great patience as Yellow Peril fought against traffic delays on his way to the start. But we were forewarned that only five more minutes and he would be with us... He was.
Fascinating, it was, for some who knew the area of old. We met at the brand new pub (more of that later) in their large car park for the Hares' briefing on a cool overcast afternoon. We were informed that the trail was laid in chalk and flour. The runners ran off into the new unknown. The walkers set off in a different direction and went off through the new housing estate and soon met up with the runners who were not hanging about. It was apparent that the estate developers had taken much trouble to produce much variation with their houses and soon we were high above the canal that nestled in the deep cut. The journey through the trees was most attractive. Walkers were able to see the runners on the far side of the canal . The walkers crossed over the lock gate and followed the runners who soon disappeared into the distance and they set off uphill, across the Guildford Road and on up and up on the far side to the very familiar Old Guildford Road. Eventually the two parties made it back to Deepcut Road Bridge and home to the On Inn – The Frog. This was a very happy gathering that much enjoyed this new pub and their chips were awarded a score of 9·6 (for those who have not seen the Chip Chart, 10 is the highest score).
Thanks to the Hares for a fine trail.
On On,
NEXT
15 Feb - Jim Gibson (Bolshie) Staple Hill Car Park, Chobham, Chertsey , KT16 0ED, SU 97360 64882 crib.such.love
1 Mar - ???HARE WANTED???
NOTES ON RUN 622 ON WEDNESDAY 18 JAN 2023
FROM THE BOURLEY ROAD, GU52 8AD
(SU821519 ) factored.fight.fingertip
Hare: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Les Salmon (Ever Ready) Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Simon Judd (3/4d), Steve Booker (Dickhead), John Elder (Seis Matters), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Tony Soane ((Sony Tone) and welcome to the late arrival Chris Holmes (Headley Hound). Also starred Fifi.
For once, the weather was bright but cool (actually pretty damn cold). The hare warned of standing water and ice and mud on the trail so things looked a bit dodgy. The runners' trail was about 4 miles (Hah - felt more like 5 to me - Ed) and the walkers' just half that. HH arrived just in time to see the last of the runners plodding over the race course so was able to catch up quickly. Meanwhile the walkers were negotiating the heavily delayed queues of road traffic to get into the trees beyond the roadworks. Once we were back where we started, Cuddles handed out some of her delicious fruity little cakes that went down very well. We ended up in The Tweseldown where the beer drinkers were not happy with the state of the ale (again).
On On,
1 Feb - John Hirst (Machinist) The Frog car park - 1 Mindenhurst, Deepcut Bridge Rd, GU16 6QF
(GR SU 904569) wicked.lyricism.tribes
15 Feb - Jim Gibson (Bolshie) TBN
NOTES ON RUN 621 ON WEDNESDAY 4 JAN 2023
FROM THE BAT AND BALL
SU833444 nagging.remove.waltz
Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Sarah Britton (Little Rabbit), Jim Gibson (Bolshie), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy) , John Hirst (Machinist), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Simon Judd (3/4d) . Also starred Fifi.
Weather was dull and the brief warned of considerable mud on the trail so things looked a bit dodgy. The muddy trail was about 4 miles and the Hare would lead the walkers and show them the short cuts. Oh yes, and some road crossing was unfortunately unavoidable. So off went the hounds and over the bridge at the back of the pub where there was a pause while all three variants were checked out. Eventually a distant cry called the pack on along the trail following the Bourne raging torrent and then into some pleasant soggy woodland. There were hills aplenty on the way. By now the groups had split up leaving the walkers well to the back of the pack with three wanderers even further to the rear with no sign of the promised leader. It just happened that the trio were three quarters of all that remains of the original first Deepcut pack. But they got home in the end to exasperated cries of “Here they are...”
So, all got home safe and sound to enjoy good company , and a warming, smoking log fire to add comfort to the drinkers. Many thanks Colin, once again...
On On,
PS. Easy Rider has handed over Hash Cash to Yellow Peril
18 Jan - Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) Bourley Road, Church Crookham (GR SU 821519 ) factored.fight.fingertip
1 Feb - John Hirst (Machinist) The Frog car park - 1 Mindenhurst, Deepcut Bridge Rd, GU16 6QF
(GR SU 904569) wicked.lyricism.tribes
15 Feb - Jim Gibson (Bolshie) TBN
NOTES ON RUN 620 ON WEDNESDAY 21 DEC 2022
THE CHRISTMAS MEET
AT GRAYSHOTT RECREATION GROUND
wiring.compelled.parkland GR 867355
Hare: Yellow Peril
Hounds: 3/4d, Action Man, Caboose, Cuddles, Cyclone, Damp Patch, Dickhead, Ever Ready, Flying Doctor, French Leave, Hanging About, Headplanter, Hippo, Janet ‘n John, Lady Chatterley, Machinist, Mountain Rescue, Nettles, Nutcracker, Petal, Prime 8, Seis Matters, Sex Slave, Silvier Fox, Sony Tone, Sony Tone Minor, Squiffy, Yorkie and not forgetting Fifi. Sadly, Bolshie had to cancel, thanks to a Covid attack.
Well, what a magnificent and happy event this turned out to be! YP had worked his socks off to get this one on the road and some 30 were there to enjoy the party! At his pre-run brief he held forth about the signs he was using and that a 'fish hook' had been included for the runners. Then there was also a trail laid for the walkers and a third for the limpers. Trails of some 4,2 and 1 miles had kept him well occupied in early morning and in damp dull weather All trails went through rather splendid woodland and down to a lake when the runners set off for some serious hill running and most returned complaining about the steepness of the last hill in particular. Then it was down the road to The Fox and Pelican where one long table for the pack had been set up . Yes, we filled the room nicely. MR said a few words of welcome and thanks to YP for his outstanding performance in organising the rabble who then much enjoyed their Pie and Pint (or alternatives). Fifi, apparently, enjoyed a prime position at the head of the table with Caboose.
Huge thanks YP – yoo dun good!!
And next:
4 Jan - Colin Crofts (French Leave) – Bat & Ball, Bourne, GU10 4RE, (SU 833444) , nagging.remove.waltz
18 Jan - Wanted please
1 Feb - John Hirst (Machinist) 1 Mindenhurst, Deepcut Bridge Rd, GU16 6QF (SU904569) wicked.lyricism.tribes
15 Feb - Maybe Jim Gibson (Bolshie) if he is fit again
NOTES ON RUN 619 ON WEDNESDAY 7 DEC 2022
FROM WELLINGTON STATUE.
SU 816439 , royal.digit.skill
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Les Salmon (Ever Ready)
Hounds: Steve Booker (Dickhead), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril). Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Sarah Nagel (Petal), Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox), John Elder (Seis Matters), Luke Ripley (Caboose), John Hirst (Machinist), Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Derrick Gray (Prime 8). Simon Judd (3/4d) and Alastair Gilbert (Squiffy).
Cool and dry was the weather. ER briefed the pack while MR was sorting himself out before the start. The runners took off out of the car park to the east and across the open space where the first false trail was ignored and into the jungle they sped. The walkers were somewhat more sedate and the same trail followed (apart from a significant short cut) to the point where the runners turned and made for the canal that they followed before rejoining on the walkers trail, leading home. Squiffy, late as so often, eventually caught up with the walkers and complained that the 3 numbers were wrong and taken him completely 7 minutes drive away. In reality he entered the wrong numbers and not those quoted on the calling web site. “That was the fastest but not the shortest Deepcut run – there were no regroups all the way” stated Yorkie. What he really meant was that he didn't see the two regroups on the way... Jolly drinks with chips were later enjoyed at the Queen Hotel (AKA Weatherspoons) in Aldershot.
OnOn
Coming next: The Christmas run
21 Dec: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Grayshott Recreation Ground, GU26 6FH , wiring.compelled.parkland
And thereafter?..More volunteers, please
4 Jan ?
18 Jan ?
1 Feb ?
NOTES ON RUN 618 ON WEDNESDAY 23 NOV 2022
FROM BALL AND WICKET PUB AT HOLT POUND
SU 816439 , raven.strength.nightlife
Hare: Steve Booker (Dickhead)
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril). Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Sarah Nagel (Petal), Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox), John Elder (Seis Matters) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
The pouring rain the day before this meet was superseded by glorious sunshine on the day. Dickhead warned us that the was a lot of mud ahead and that there were some long, boring bits of the trail. This was largely because a number of paths on his intended trail were inundated by surface water. However the comments after the main event were that it had been a good trail with no stiles and both the walkers were fairly contented apart from the extent of the mud...
OnOn
Coming next:
7 Dec: Richard McAllister (Mnt Rsc) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Wellington Statue.
21 Dec: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Grayshott Recreation Ground, GU26 6FH wiring.compelled.parkland
And thereafter?..More volunteers, please
NOTES ON RUN 617 ON WEDNESDAY 9 NOV 2022
FROM HAWLEY MEMORIAL HALL, GU17 9BW
SU 850593, loaders.punctual.motoring
Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave)
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril). Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) Steve Booker (Dickhead), and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
Getting to the start was not easy for some with the wide-spread road diversions all over the place. However it was a good turnout for Deepcut and a most enjoyable run through the woods. It was a well laid trail put down by Colin and his brother. Colin made sure that we all knew any errors were made by his brother (who was not with us) and of the three regroups only the first and third were active so ignore number two. The trails kept the runners and the walkers in touch with each other at various points. Once again we were lucky with the weather with some sunshine and no rain (however – very wet underfoot after yesterday's rain).
Now there was a bit of controversy. The Hare (who is responsible for selecting the On Inn) had chosen our old favourite Mr Bumble Pub just down the road. As he was leaving for the pub, MR was stopped and given directions to go to a different pub so off he went. Sadly the directions were up the spout and it was some time later that MR managed to find the alternative pub having driven round and about through heavy traffic. Sadly, the result was a fifty fifty split of the pack. On Inn selection is the Hare's responsibility so any changes should be 'hared' before any changes made. It is better when the whole pack can have a beer or two together...?
OnOn
Coming next:
23 Nov: Steve Booker (Dickhead) location TBC
7 Dec: Richard McAllister (Mnt Rsc) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Wellington Statue.
21 Dec: Christmas party in hand
And thereafter.?..More volunteers, please
NOTES ON RUN 616 ON WEDNESDAY 26 OCT 2022
FROM FOX AND HOUNDS AT ROWLEDGE ( GU10 4AA )
SU 823433 sensitive.sorry.banter
Hares: Brian Langford (Cyclone) and Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril). Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), John Hirst (Machinist), Annie To (NNY), Colin Crofts (French Leave), and Luke Ripley (Caboose)
The weather was good to us once again with delightful warming sunshine. The principal hare warned that there were some long straight sections which would allow for some fast running. The trail quickly took us out of the built-up area and into lovely woods made even better by the dappled sunshine. For much of the runners' trail was followed by the walkers who eventually turned off to follow their own (shorter) way home. The faster walkers arrived back at much the same time as the runners and it was swiftly inside for resuscitation. The pub was splendidly set up with plenty of Halloween decorations and the drinks were truly welcome and enjoyed as was the assembled company.
Coming next:
9 Nov Colin Crofts (French Leave) from the Hawley Memorial Hall, GU17 9BW, (SU 850593)
loaders.punctual.motoring
And thereafter.?..Volunteers, please
NOTES ON RUN 615 ON WEDNESDAY 12 OCT 2022
FROM WINDMILL PUB, EWSHOT, GU10 5BW (SU 816 499) afflicted.volunteered.shuttered
Hare: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
1
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril). Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and John Elder (Seis Matters) Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), and Luke Ripley (Caboose)
The consensus was that it was a marvellous trail – that is both for the walkers and the runners. The runners, who crossed the road, found some very attractive countryside while the walkers had their own fun in lots of woodland. Some of the territory was suffering from old rotting trees with the fallen trunks, boughs and twigs being taken over by Nature - a bit tricky for the wobblers and less firm but such is life. The walkers were home well before the runners and they had already got stuck into the beers well before the runners returned. It was a goodly gathering in a very pleasant pub.
On On
Coming next:
26 Oct - Cyclone and Easy Rider starting from the Hare and Hounds at Rowledge GU10 4AA,
GR SU 823433, intruding.finds.amount (To be confirmed)
And thereafter.?..Someone please come forward for 9 Nov
NOTES ON RUN 614 ON WEDNESDAY 28 SEP 2022
FROM CAR PARK PIRBRIGHT(GR 946560, GU24 0JU )
hurry.remind.cages
Hare: Simon Judd (3/4d)
Hounds:
John Hirst (Machinist). Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Margaret Gibson (Viva Espania), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
What a truly splendid trail this one turned out to be in an area not used by us for ages, The weather was good too. The brief was brief – 6 km for the runners and 4 for the walkers. Flat, only one small hill and no stiles but kissing gates instead. Using Guildford signs Runners start from the circle over there and walkers follow Richard who has been briefed. So off went the two groups in different directions. The walkers quickly arrived at the bucket of apples about which they had been told where the runners would also pass. The runners could be heard approaching when a number of horses galloped by followed by the runners. The horses had been somewhat quicker. Then the common trail set off again into delightful woods, momentarily out into the open and then back into a spooky wooded 'tunnel' which gave way to more open areas a bit of road running. At one check there was a sweety stop to re-charge tiring bodies. It had been a well laid trail with lots of marking. The hare had come not only with flour and sawdust and sweets but with beers and soft drinks. Sadly he was not able to stay for long and so most of the rest went on to The Cricketers for further sustenance in the garden sunshine. Many thanks 3/4d for your excellent trail and generous resuscitation items.
On On
Coming next:
12 Oct
Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril). Windmill Pub, Ewshot, GU10 5BW afflicted.volunteered.shuttered (SU 816 499)26 Oct ? and thereafter...Someone please come forward
NOTES ON RUN 613 ON WEDNESDAY 14 SEP 2022
FROM FAIROAKS AIRPORT, CHOBHAM, CAR PARK
(record.drill.fans) GU24 8HU, Cafe GU24 8JB (insist.traps.shady)
Hares: Neil Thomason (Fanny Sniffer) and Kimi Thomason (Mole).
Hounds: John Hirst (Machinist), Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Margaret Gibson (Viva Espania), Annie To (NNY), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Simon Judd (3/4d), Luke Ripley (Caboose) and (only just), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue),
MR failed miserably to get to the start in time so missed the run. YP's report:
Having started damp and cold, the mercury climbed to 22C and the day turned into a glorious September afternoon. The RV at Fairoaks Airport provided ample parking for Deepcut Hashers to assemble, anticipate and enjoy what Fanny Sniffer had to offer.
Having waited the statutory five minutes for any remaining wayward souls to gather, the hounds set off on Fanny’s trail (no names no pack drill, but it seems a senior logistics chap spent the afternoon on the motorway exploring the various checks of the numerous motorway exits instead).
Machinist announced he’d vegetate with a fellow hasher at the RV…..
Having been sent back out to the main road, the FRBs quickly found the turning down a path that started to circumnavigate the airfield but then led to fields of horses on the right, with Beechcraft and Pipers taking off to the left and overhead. After running across charming water meadows and footbridges, the Hare then gave some wonderful misdirection (afterwards admitting she’d actually forgotten which way we were supposed to go), but we were back on trail soon enough and picked up pace to pass a few farms and then on to an attractively heather-clad Horsell Common. Here the Hare treated us to another exciting and challenging demonstration of the unknown. Yellow Peril eventually discovered the crafty and forgotten hairpin which led through shady glades to the gentle rolling hills of the reclaimed McLaren landfill site from which even the Technology Centre looked elegant.
Through the McLaren Park, back past the end of the runway and we were greeted by Machinist and colleague at the entry to the On Home path and another five minutes trot back to car park.
At just over 1 hour 10 mins (c.4.25m?), thank you Fanny Sniffer for yet another memorable Deepcut run.
On On
Coming next:
28 Sep Simon Judd (3/4d) Car Park Pirbright (GR 946560) GU24 0JU hurry.remind.cages
12 Oct Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) Windmill Pub, Ewshot (SU 816 499) GU10 5BW afflicted.volunteered.shuttered
26 Oct ? and thereafter...
NOTES ON RUN 612 ON WEDNESDAY 31 AUG 2022
FROM THE LOWER BOURNE RECREATION GROUND ( GU10 3PU)
GR 849446 loafer.homing.venturing
Hare: Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox)
Hounds: John Elder (Seis Matters), Sarah Nagle (Petal), John Hirst (Machinist), Neil Thomason (Fanny Sniffer), Kimi Thomason (Mole), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Margaret Gibson (Viva Espania), Annie To (NNY), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Anne Routledge (NNY), Simon Judd (3/4d), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Devon Soane (NNY) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
The weather attracted our highest attendance since Christmas when 24 turned up. And today there were 23 of us. Once again I quote YP - The trail turned out to be “...cunning and clever and kept us guessing at almost every check. The weather was perfect and the atmosphere at The Spotted Cow thoroughly enjoyable. All in all a definite 10/10 – well done team Fifi!”
On On
Coming next:
14 Sep Neil Thomason ((Fanny Sniffer) - Fairoaks Airport, Chobham, Car Park (record.drill.fans GU24 8HU, Cafe GU24 8JB insist.traps.shady)
28 Sep Simon Judd (3/4p) Normandy details to follow
12 Oct Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) details to follow
26 Oct and thereafter
NOTES ON RUN 611 ON WEDNESDAY 17 AUG 2022
FROM THE SELBORNE RECREATION GROIND
744330 fools.patting.organist
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters)
Hounds: John Hirst (Machinist). Neil Thomason (Fanny Sniffer), Kimi Thomason (Mole), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox), Annie To (NNY), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Simon Judd (3/4d) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
Rain? What Rain? Well it didn't really start until we did at 3 pm. Once it started it fairly bucketed it down. The runners course was ( here I quote YP) “...a very clever and crafty run that tempted and zig-zagged the foothills of the hanger to challenge even the cleverest of the challenged! But blimey it was wet – in the end, I gave up trying to put on dry clothes; even they got drenched in the process. So I tore off everything, turned up the heater in the car and drove home stark, bollock naked for a hot bath! Such is life.” Just as well he didn't have to stop on the way home.
But thanks, John, for the trail.
From the hare: After the 3rd re-group, I directed the hash along the forest edge only to find them returning since they had run into a bar. Mystery, I had laid no bar. Yesterday, I checked the trail and discovered that two sawdust blobs on the high side of the path had been washed across the path by the rain thus presenting what looked like a tenuous bar. Mystery solved.
On On
Coming next:
31 Aug Sarah (Petal) and Steve (Silvier)Nagle - Bourne Recreation Ground
14 Sep Neil Thomason (Fanny Sniffer) - Fairoaks Airport, Chobham, Car Park
NOTES ON RUN 610 ON WEDNESDAY 3 AUG 2022
FROM THE LIGHTWATER RECREATION CENTRE
(GR 916620) cheat.enabling.testy
Hares: John Hirst (Machinist) and Neil Thomason (Fanny Sniffer)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), Margaret Gibson (Viva Espana), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Sarah Nagle (Petal) Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox), Bill Prescott (Bolton Bollocks), Kimi Thomason (Mole), Tamnee Paranjit (Blue Label), Seema Paramjit (NNY), Briain Lee (Master Bate), Devon Soane (NNY), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Annie To (NNY), and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) .
I hope I have included all those who turned up and if you know of anyone left off the list, please let me know. Trouble was I was late in arriving so the pack had dispersed for the run before I got to the start. Grateful thanks to the hares who volunteered to lay a trail for us and what a marvellous trail it turned out to be. A great mixture of woodland and forest with some pretty steep hill bits, too especially the one leading up to The Viewpoint. The weather was kind with sunshine and a cooling breeze. At the end, walkers, runners and the idle appeared from a number of directions. It must have been a really good trail because YP had nothing but much praise - now that is a rarity if ever there was... Machinist had decided it was better sitting outside beside the sports field and had laid on some chairs. More than that, he very generously produced iced beers and drinks with packets of crisps. and a very jolly party ensued. There were several new Hashers on the run and it is hoped they will return for further meets
On On
Coming next:
17 Aug John Elder (Seis Matters) Selborne Recreation Ground CP
31 Aug Sarah (Petal) and Steve Nagle (Silvier)
14 Sep
NOTES ON RUN 609 ON WEDNESDAY 6 JUL 2022
FROM THE WELLINGTON STATUE.
(GR 853511), firmly.teeth.terms
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready)
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Jim Gibson (Bolshoi), John Hirst (Machinist), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox), Bill Prescott (Bolton Bollocks), Neil Thomason (Fanny Sniffer), Kimi Thomason (Mole), Tamnee Paranjit (Blue Label).
The Hares were upset at the very start by the locked gate that called for Plan B to be enacted. So, the pack set off in a direction that was intended to make the front runners believe they were going into a different area only to be turned back in a loop and over the Bourley Road into the southern side of the training area. The initial uphill drag was tedious but unavoidable until it the trail turned into a clearing and down to the first back back. The trail now passed through some prickly narrow paths and into more open ground. Back through trees we went across a deep, wide gully and on to a pleasant trot through the sun dappled trees to the road crossing and back to the car park. Then it was to Weatherspoons for a great refresher and chat.
On On
Coming next:
20 Jul: ? The death of DH3 is imminent if volunteers to lay trails are not forthcoming VOLUNTEERS URGENTLY NEEDED NOW
NOTES ON RUN 608 ON WEDNESDAY 22 JUN 2022
FROM THE BALL & WICKET, FARNHAM ROAD.
(GR 816439) fast.downward.collapsed
Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave)
Hounds: Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril),), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) , Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Janie (Cuddles) and Richard (Sex Slave) Britton .
Although he can't run at the moment, Colin stepped forward to lay a trail in order to keep DH3 operating – so, thank you for that good example and may others follow in his footsteps! Sadly, despite the wonderful sunny, warm weather there were so few to enjoy the excellent trail. There was an early warning that the trail was not easy to see because of the dappled sunshine through the trees and great care should be taken to observed the mainly well laid trail. There were only three runners who had to work hard to stay on trail and keep their eyes wide open As has happened before, parts of the trail had been kicked out which didn't help and it caused the hounds a lot of checking. Probably 98% of the trail was through delightful woodland that kept the harsh rays of sun off us. Once back in the car park there was a welcome cooling breeze blowing. The pub garden was in very good order and the beer good!
On On
Coming next:
6 Jul: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready)
Wellington Statue (GR 854511), firmly.teeth.terms
And then...............?
NOTES ON RUN 607 ON WEDNESDAY 8 JUN 2022
LAKESIDE PARK, Ash Vale
(souk.firms.dads )
Hares: Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue)
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril),), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) , John Hirst (Machinist). Annie To, Sarah Nagel (Petal) Steve Nagel (Silver Fox), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant) and Jim Gibson (Bolshie).
MR introduced and welcomed Jim Gibson (another HK Hasher escapee). It also turned out that Yorkie had retired that very day so was now free to Hash whenever he so desires (or his ageing body allows him). This trail, designed by Ever Ready, met with general approval. It took the hares exactly three hours to lay. However, MR had an appointment in London that evening so was not able to accompany the walkers or enjoy the On Inn. The weather was ideal and much of the trail in beautiful dense woodland. The trail almost fell apart when Dickhead failed and didn't cross the road on the way back at the fair ground exit. Fortunately, Ever Ready was well up with the pack to put him right. The walkers also went astray but were very happy with their walk. No incidents to speak of except JGG, who, by some miracle, found himself on the wrong side of the canal at one point! A good day for all.
On On
Coming soon:
22 Jun: French Leave from the Ball & Wicket, Farnham Road, Holt Pound Farnham, GU10 4LA
(GR 816439), fast.downward.collapsed
NOTES ON RUN 606 ON WEDNESDAY 25 MAY 2022
BOURNE RECREATION GROUND
(plot.wage.brotherly)
Hare:. Brian Langford (Cyclone), and Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and John Hirst (Machinist).
Our thanks to Cyclone assisted by Sony Tone for volunteering to save the day and to Squiffy who latterly also offered to lay a trail but did not turn up for this meet. And a very good meet it was - cool with a touch of sunshine and wonderful countryside and trees galore. It was an area where a new version of Robin Hood has recently been filmed and where scenes for Gladiator were shot. A number of hills were best described as being very steep (both up and down). The four runners got back to base dead on the hour after running through very verdant woodlands stuffed with willow warblers and some oddly prickly ceramic heads from which a trio emerged to ambush Yorkie with a broken bootlace… Sadly Ever Ready damaged his leg and was limping a bit but not enough to stop him from getting to The Spotted Cow. The walkers split into two groups and both parties also enjoyed their rambles around this delightful area.
On On
Coming soon:
8 Jun: Ever Ready and Mountain Rescue - Lakeside Park, Ash Vale (GR 889518) souk.firms.dads
22 Jun: Someone else please
NOTES ON RUN 605 ON WEDNESDAY 11 MAY 2022
HAWLEY MEMORIAL HALL (GR 850593
)
(loaders.punctual.motoring)
Hare:.
Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds:
Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Richard
Britton (Sex Slave), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister
(Mountain Rescue), Ian Angel (Hippo), Steve Booker(Dickhead), Janie Britton
(Cuddles), John Campbell (Thermal Dick), Sarah Nagel (Petal), and Steve
Nagel (Silvier Fox),
At the starting circle, TD was welcomed to his first run with Deepcut.
The hare apologised for the wet weather before warning us that some
of the trail may have been rubbed out by soldiers training in the area.
He went on the announce that there were no stiles on the way round
but failed to mention huge felled trees that had to be negotiated.
It turned out to be a truly attractive trail with spring fresh
greenery abounding and rhododendrons in massed full bloom.
Dense trees kept much of the rain from us so that was well arranged
by the apologetic hare. The
runners were round in 50 minutes while the walkers were in just over the
hour. Mr Bumble was just as good
as ever.
Keep an eye on the web site as we have not had a voluteer to lay the next
trail yet...
On On (hopefully)
Coming soon:
NOTHING
unless hares voluteer soon
25 May;
8 Jun:
22 Jun:
NOTES ON RUN 604 ON WEDNESDAY 27 APR 2022
HORSELL COMMON (GR TQ 012604)
(magic.rewarding.above)
Hares: John Hirst (Machinist) and Annie To (NNY).
Hounds: Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Simon Judd (3/4d ), and introducing Tony Keenan (Bean Counter).
Our start was delayed as we waited for our new member from Hong Kong – Tony Keenan – to find his way which he did with the aplomb of a well seasoned Hasher. It was rather sad that more did not make the effort to join us on what turned out to be an excellent event. (It was, we were later informed, the area where the Martians of HG Wells “War of the Worlds” landed). Anyway, we eventually set off in cloudy weather but at least there was no rain. As we went through the woods, with the runners well to the fore but within earshot of the walkers, we found delightful paths with a touch of grass and safe passage over the swampy bit. SS had set off with the runners but sensibly paused at the top of the highest point to watch what was happening with walkers – they were short-cutting while the runners were long-looping. So he joined the walkers. Once back safe and sound the pack split and only five went on to the Cricketers at Horsell - a very large pub which had oddly only one real ale on sale but at least it was a good pint of Spitfire even if it did cost £5 a pint. Their chips, too, were excellent! So thanks to Machinist and Annie for a good trail and party after...
Coming soon:
11 May; Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) Hawley Memorial Hall (GR 850593) (loaders.punctual.motoring)
NOTES ON RUN 603 ON WEDNESDAY 13 APR 2022
WYNDHAM'S POOL CAR PARK
(GR 858434) circling.facelift.cabs
Hares: Les Salmon (Ever Ready) Janie Britton (Cuddles) and Richard Britton (Sex Slave)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Luke Ripley (Caboose). Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and introducing Fifi Nagle (Hobbit).
It was a most unfortunate start to the meeting – the wrong location had slipped into the system so many went to the wrong start. Fortunately, the hares realised what had happened so marked up in sawdust OTHER CP. This flummoxed Squiffy but YP took his car down to the main road to let Squiffy know where we were really supposed to be. Anyway, as far as we know no one else had to go away too disappointed. The weather was wonderful as the wounded SS sat in his car and Cuddles set off with the walkers – both of them. The runners set off to the fore while the walkers with great strength of determination and self-control walked past The Cricketers on to the trail. It was an interesting and well laid trail through mainly forested territory. Still full of walking, the trio went around the Pool before getting 'home' to await the arrival of the runners who returned having enjoyed a very well-laid and quite challenging trail which took them over heath, passed the cemetery and the ‘other pond’, through gorse enclosed tunnels and a pebble maze. Refreshments were enjoyed at The Cricketers with, we’re glad to report, no confusion this time over the car park for the On Inn. A great Hash – thank you Hares and welcome Fifi Nagle (our new Hash Mascot AKA Hobbit - because she has furry feet).
Coming soon:
27 Apr : John Hirst (Machinist) Horsell Common (GR TQ 012604) (magic.rewarding.above)
11 May; Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) Hawley Memorial Hall (GR 850593) (loaders.punctual.motoring)
NOTES ON RUN 602 ON WEDNESDAY 30 MAR 2022
RURAL LIFE LIVING MUSEUM, THE REEDS ROAD, TILFORD, FARNHAM GU10 2DL
SU 858434 ///circling.facelift.cabs
Hare: Colin and Lesley Croft (French Leave with No Idea)
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone Whirly Breeze), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready),
As we circled up, French Leave announced he had a walking problem (unlike the runners, who had a running problem) so he hadn’t laid a separate walkers' trail. Instead, he gave the walkers some maps with coloured trails of varying distances to guide them. Naturally, with map reading skills bar none, the walkers enjoyed themselves somewhere else altogether, but still managed to make it back to base before the return of the FRBs. The runners, meanwhile, were left to their own devices and set off on a cleverly designed trail with a generous number of enticingly laid 3-blob checks. All went well until the runners hit the woodland belt about 2/3rds of the way round along Tilford Road. Suddenly, there were runners going all over the place, each blaming each other for short-cutting, running through bars etc etc (all the usual shit). Some sort of order returned, until an unmarked split mistakenly led two keen but blind runners (no names, no pack drill) through the chestnuts back down towards Reeds Road. The remnants returned to the RV to be greeted by a surprisingly fresh-looking French Leave who, although didn’t run with the hounds, had ventured out during the hash to mark up a missing re-group. The remnants enjoyed some great Sussex beers in the afternoon sun at The Barley Mow overlooking the cricket green. Rumour had it that Cyclone and Sony Tone went to the Spotted Cow…..
Mountain Rescue was on gardening leave.
Thanks to Colin for an excellent trail.
Next Run 603 : 13 Apr : Ever Ready : SU 824597 : ///into.guitar.blurs
Yateley Common Country Park (Wyndham's Pool) Car Park GU46 6AZ (postcode is only nearby)
On inn at the Cricketers on the other side of Cricket Hill Lane.
· HARE NEEDED FOR RUN 604 27TH APRIL
NOTES ON RUN 601 ON WEDNESDAY 2 MAR 2022
FROM THE FUTURE SKILLS CENTRE, HUDSON RD., BORDON GU35 0GX
SU 797368 ///diet.liquid.printer
Hare: Halter Hego AKA Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) (AGAIN !!!)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), John Elder (Seis Matters), Simon Judd (3/4d), Sarah Nagle (Petal) and Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox).
A huge thanks to YP for laying yet another trail (and this time in dreadful weather!). Our thanks to him, too, for producing another marvellous cake and I guess he was the only one who remembered it was our Hash's 24th Birthday. Anyway, there were pleasing comments about the trail although none of the walkers came across the blue patches which were designed for them. The recce for the run had been dry but was distinctively dampened leaving some markings underwater. Despite the weather it was a most attractive trail which I hope can be used again when the trees are in leaf. Jollification in The Woodlark was greatly enhanced by the generous supply by YP of bowls of the most delicious chips. So additional thanks to YP...
Next:
No Hare yet! Someone please step forth and offer to help
YP writes :
Tuesday was gloriously sunny, as was Thursday but, with appallingly perfect timing and panache, the heavens opened on Wednesday and the weather was absolutely foul for yet another memorable Deepcut event on a trail which had been laid earlier in the day by mystery idiot Hare, Halter Hego.
At 1500, Yellow Peril appeared and opened a sealed envelope that he’d found on the doormat with clear instructions (quickly forgotten) and maps (which quickly fell apart) for runners and walkers.
And they were off.
Crossing the new bypass, the trail quickly disappeared into the bushes behind the bus stop on the main road.
Then into the Bordon Inclosure, the FRBs found their way through a curiously mounded play area. After stumbling at the next check, the pack made it back over to the hills of Broxhead Common where the walkers eventually left the runners to follow a line of blue blobs after a tirade from the substitute Hare (YP).
From Broxhead Common, the trail meandered through the dense shrubbery of Woolmer Forest, to return finally back at the RV.
Drenched, but happy, the pack went on to The Woodlark for some tasty beers and some truly excellent chips (at least a 9.5 on the chipometer scale IMHO).
100% turnout at the On Inn. We must be getting something right.
Seis Matters captured it well when he described it as “An all but tropical hash (less about 20C and the leeches) – just like the Malayan Jungle”.
The FRB’s re-group on Broxhead Common by the pond (“It's not Lake Como but we're quite proud of it” one wag was heard to comment).
Petal and the Woolmer Water Tower. A floating check, the like of which has not been seen since the downpour in the New Forest on 28th January 2012.
NOTES ON RUN 600 ON WEDNESDAY 2 MAR 2022
FROM THE OLD OFFICERS MESS, DEEPCUT
archive.brief.defenders, (GR 909583 ), GU16 6SU
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Sarah Britton (Little Rabbit), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anna Elder (Janet & John), John Elder (Seis Matters), Simon Judd (3/4d), Sarah Nagle (Petal), and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
The pack returned to its place of birth at the back of the old RLC Officers Mess at Deepcut. The weather was truly miserable with rain and drizzle being in quantities on to sodden ground kept cool by the breeze. When I asked YP to help me lay the trail I should have realised that I would not get much of a look in and the trail was very largely his. He certainly put in a lot of work to prepare an interesting route that seemed to be much enjoyed despite the weather. At the opening circle MR told the assembly that his diary from 1998 showed that the first reference to a Hash at Deepcut was at 1450 on Wednesday 18 March – with no other surviving evidence we will take this as our birthday.
The trail set off through the officers married quarters and into the woods beyond. The going was flat but 'twiggy' underfoot. There were some tricky bits that fooled the FRBs. The pack shared the first part of the trail through the still developing SANG area until we arrived at Deepcut Bridge Road. Here the runners crossed over into the hilly woods of the Frith and Blackdown Hills for a 2-mile loop with multiple starfish checks and peripheral vision side paths to keep the FRBs on their toes and the pack together. The walkers turned by the old museum and into the Dettingen complex that was admired by those who had not been into area before. Once all were back home YP produced one of his delicious Victoria sponges while Cuddles gave us a selection of splendid small cakes. Once the cake-fest was over it was the Pinewood Golf club for further refreshment. Never in the history of Deepcut hashes had so many chips been seen and they just kept arriving. Not one was wasted as the well-fed players retired for home!
Oh crikey, our next meet will be a birthday run...
A relevant quote from one of our runners: “Thanks once again for an excellent hash yesterday. Varied, cunning and wet; fully worthy of being the 600th.”
Next:
Now this is getting serious. Both YP and MR have recently had to lay three trails in succession each and are getting a bit fed up with the lack of trail layers. We are in danger of cancelling so please play your part to keep this great pastime going...
On On (I hope!)
NOTES ON RUN 599 ON WEDNESDAY
16 FEB 2022
FROM
THE WELLINGTON STATUE (GR 853511)
firmly.teeth.terms
Hares:
Richard
McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Brian Langford (Cyclone)
Hounds:
Les Salmon (Ever Ready),
Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark
Westcott (Yellow Peril), Derrick Gray (Prime8),
Steve Booker (Dickhead), Adrian Baker (Action Man), Janie Britton
(Cuddles), Alistair Gilbert
(Squiffy), John Hirst (Machinist). Bill
Prescot (Bolton Bollocks), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old
Thumper), and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
ONCE AGAIN,
I ASK FOR HELP TO GET TRAILS LAID
Don't be shy but YP and MR are
getting a bit tired of laying trails.
Next:
2 Mar
- 600th
Run
- Mark Westcott (YP) and Richard
McAllister (MR) – back of old RLC
Officers Mess, Deepcut
16 Mar -
30 Mar -
NOTES ON RUN 598 ON WEDNESDAY 2 FEB 2022
FROM THE WELLINGTON STATUE (GR 853511)
firmly.teeth.terms
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Booker (Dickhead), and Adrian Baker (Action Man)
Warm and sunny for the time of year. Before setting off at the start, MR decided just to check that the start trail had not been vandalised. It had and part of the trail that was important to get the run started. It was re-laid and all went well. Another blob had been covered by a pile of leaves. Having anticipated such malpractices, there was just too much marking and it looked like the perpetrators gave up continuing their dastardly deeds. For a change, the runners and the walkers arrived back from different approaches and at the same time. There was considerable discussion about where we should go for beer. The Brewers Fayre had run out of ale and Guiness but had lager. This understandably caused great discord which resulted in the group splitting up – a poor ending to an otherwise enjoyable afternoon.
OnOn
Next:
16 Feb Hare please
2 Mar - 600th Run - Mark Westcott (YP) and Richard McAllister (MR) - Pine Ridge Golf Club (GR 907588)
16 Mar - Colin Crofts (French Leave) Farnham Heath (TBC)
More VOLUNTEERS please
NOTES ON RUN 597 ON WEDNESDAY 19 JAN 2022
FROM THE ALMA PUB (GR 837490 )
hours.trespass.slid
Hare: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Brian Langford (Cyclone), John Hirst (Macinist), Annie To (NNY) and Luke Ripley (Caboose)
It was a suitably short course for Deepcut with the runners covering some 2.8 miles. As expected there were plenty of severe hills encountered and the first steep one nearly put paid to Petal. She survived. Part way round the walkers and runners met at a cross roads; the runners ran down to and around the pond while the walkers remained on their high ground. The weather was wonderful with marvellous views over to Caesar's Camp. With the fading of the sun, a bit of chill was with us. As ever, the Alma was a warm and pleasant reward for the exercised Hashers. We still need more HARES!
OnOn
Next:
2 Feb Mountain Rescue and Ever Ready – Wellington Staue (GR 853511) firmly.teeth.terms
More VOLUNTEERS please
NOTES ON RUN 596 ON WEDNESDAY 5 JAN 2022
FROM ROWLEDGE CLUB (GR 819435 )
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), John Elder (Seis Matters), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Ian Angel (Hippo), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant) and Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink),
Squiffy was to have saved the day by volunteering to lay the first trail of 2022, but a misunderstanding resulted in YP jumping in at the last moment to lay a local run (for the third successive trail!!)
PLEASE NOTE: We really do need volunteers to lay the trail if DH3 is to survive, so please come forward to lay a trail soon.
Back now to today's trail…..
YP greeted everyone on arrival with a tot of really good port, including those who drove into the car park through the EXIT (no names, no pack drill). This time there were only two walkers, the rest were keen to get off for a brisk trot around. Out on to the main road and soon lost the trail for a moment or two before dashing through the village. We had been warned that part of the trail was full of shig and shiggy it was. Meanwhile the walkers had been told that there was a dry trail they could use and it was out of the dry village roads and into jungle. The runners were distracted by a children’s' play area and being Hashers meant they could play too. It seems that Squiffy may have over-indulged during the festive time recently enjoyed and had difficulty squeezing through a child's gap – bravo Squiffy. Cuddles encountered a rather slippery patch of clay and entertained the runners with a curtsey. It had been a well laid trail and easy to follow. Even the walkers had to suffer quite a lot of shig.
Back at base, mince pies were served before we made our way to the ON-INN.
Rowledge is indeed an attractive village and made for a delightful visit especially in the Hare and Hounds afterwards.
OnOn
Next:
VOLUNTEERS to hare please
|
NOTES ON RUN 595 ON WEDNESDAY 22 DEC 2021
FROM BAT AND BALL PUB (GR 833444 )
Hares:
Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Mark
Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Simon Judd (3/4d), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Ian Angel (Hippo), John Hirst (Machinist), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Dianne Barns (Don Twananame), Denise Catlin (Flying Doctor), Lesley Crofts (No Idea), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Jo Johnson (Dodo), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and Adrian Lambeth (Nettles).
'Twas a good turnout for our Christmas meet which started with the Hare's brief. He warned of hills being the problem but he had kept them down to nine for runners (and no mention for the walkers). YP would lead the runners while FL would look after the walkers. He pointed to the pub and told the runners to go that way over the river while the walkers went in the opposite direction and started up a very steep hill. At the top we could hear the runners debating which way to go. Steep undulations kept going and later FL announced that there were no more hills. Now that was a downright lie for the hills kept appearing on our way, admittedly they were not as steep or long as previous experiences, but hills nonetheless. We eventually ended up hashing alongside the river. The path was narrow and the runners, having caught up with the tail of the walkers, could not overtake which gave them a chance to cool off.
Back in the car park the circle was called and MR embarrassed YP by announcing his short but hugely important history of Hashing, not only for DH3 but for NH4 and AH3 as well during the Covid problems. He has been a prolific layer of good trails. Once into the pub a delicious buffet was served and that went down well with all. YP then announced that he was to present the Deepcut Annual Wooden Spoon awards but they weren't wooden, but silver. Mustard spoon went to Squiffy for inevitable late appearances, to Silvier went a teaspoon for frequently running through trail bars, to the choristers ER and P8 went sugar tongs and then two engraved magnificent table spoons were given to MR 'for services to Hashing'.
Many thanks to FL and YP for all the organisation and a Happy New Year to all our readers.
OnOn
Next:
VOLUNTEERS please
NOTES ON RUN 594 ON WEDNESDAY 8 DEC 2021
FROM OLD GUILDFORD ROAD (FAR END) (GR 904558 )
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Steve Booker (Dickhead), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Derrick Gray (Prime 8) ,John Hirst (Machinist) , Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy) and, Luke Ripley ( Caboose),
After torrential rain the day before, half a dozen hardy Deepcut Hounds turned up to search out a typically cunning Yellow Peril trail in some welcome hazy sunshine over familiar territory on Old Guildford Road this week..
Much to the hilarity and suitably tactless comments by the Hounds, the Hare confirmed that the trail was 3.9m long, all one-blob checks, two re-groups and only two flour markings (the rest were, of course, in sawdust, obviously) and off they set....
Closely followed by Able Walkers Squiffy and Machinist, the fast and furious Front Runners Silvier, Dickhead and Caboose took turns at leading the pack as they shared out star-fish trails, peripheral vision turnings and mis-directions. The trail followed a serpentine route back towards the usual RV point, before turning quickly downhill in the general direction of the canal and Potters, at which point Dickhead charged off towards an unknown destination only to be shouted back by a worried Hare at increasing decibel levels, much to the alleged embarrassment of Caboose who had to face a couple of dog walkers wondering what the loud cries of Dickhead might mean. Then it was up to the top via the sacrificial neolithic slab (YP’s favourite historic monument at the low point on the trail) and the first re-group (2m) near the viewpoint of Farnborough Hill House where our photographer for the day took a wonderful selfie. A typically keen Silvier quickly checked out the right trail down towards Mytchett Place Road, before turning back and over Old Guildford Road to Tunnel Hill (2nd re-group), past the reservoir, up a ravine, through the woodlands and we were soon back at the start to share a tray of mince pies with Primate who did his own thing and arrived with impeccable timing and aplomb.
Next meet (22.12.21); Deepcut Christmas Trail starting from the Bat and Ball at 12.30 where the prospect of the usual chips and sandwich bun fight will, doubtless, overcome any resistance to the early start which seems to have put off some hounds this week. Their loss: they missed an excellent trail and some rather tasty freshly baked mince pies.
Next:
22 Dec Colin Crofts (French Leave) Bat and Ball (GR835444) guardian.since.repeating
NOTES ON RUN 593 ON WEDNESDAY 24 NOV 2021
FROM NORMANDY VILLAGE HALL(GR 930515 )
Hares: Simon Judd (3/4d) and Mel Inkster (Lady Chatterly)
Hounds: Steve Booker (Dickhead), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Alastair Gilbert (Squiffy), Ian Angel (Hippo), John Hirst (Machinist), Annie To (NNY), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Luke Ripley ( Caboose), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), and Tony Soane (Sony Tone), .
We were forewarned that there was a lot of mud about and how correct was the hare's warning. “Is this what is called 'A bad hair day'?" was the witty retort from Cyclone as he negotiate and collected much of a deposit on the shoes. Despite the cool weather there was a great turnout of eager runners and walkers who took off with great gusto. It was a lovely area to move around and a shame that the sun didn't appear at all. The muddy bit was soon over and we took off on a well laid trail which included a goodly selection of woodland and open fields with a fair bit of road running (or walking) but very few re-groups. As for those horrid stiles of which there were ten or dozen to be tackled, mainly wobbly and with big steps. When darkness descended, LC's phone rang with the question as to where she was with the walkers. Well, the walkers were still happily plodding on as darkness deepened and they were very nearly home after what had been a long trail to be negotiated. At the end, 3/4d had laid on beers and eats to keep all well fed and watered. Many thanks 3/4d, very much appreciated by all
OnOn
Next:
8 Dec Westcott (Yellow Peril (AGAIN) Old Guildford Road (GR 904558 ) reckon.comedians.panthers
22 Dec Colin Crofts (French Leave) Bat and Ball (GR835444) guardian.since.repeating
NOTES ON RUN 592 ON WEDNESDAY 10 NOV 2021
FROM SELBORNE RECREATION CLUB (GR 744330)
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters)
Hounds: Steve Booker (Dickhead), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Alstair Gilbert (Squiffy), Ian Angel (Hippo), John Hirst (Machinist), Annie To (NNY), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Simon Judd (3/4d), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
Well, what a carry on in Selborne. At the southern end of the village there were many potential left turns, and I was not alone in checking out several of them*. After ten minutes a helpful local gave better instructions like turn left at the sign for “Ketchers Cottages”. By the time the also lost Cyclone and I arrived in the car park all was deserted. No flour, no sawdust or wood chips, no other lost souls. Another local came to the rescue and told us that back down the driveway there is the Lion's Mouth with gushing water and just to the side was a gate which was often decorated with flour or wood chips. So the two set off and sure enough there was a trail. First try went wrong so we backed up and found another trail which we followed through the woods and out into the most glorious countryside. The trail was well laid, and we followed on up through the large fields into more fields and confidence grew until we came to an arrow pointing towards us. So, we'd found the 'in' trail. But not deterred we knew that we'd meet the rest coming towards us and, sure enough, Hippo came in sight, so we turned about and made for home. It seems we had missed a great trail, but the substantial remainder of the pack made it back to the pub for a good and well-deserved drink and chat.
OnOn
Next:
24 Nov Simon Judd 8 Dec VOLUNTEER, please 22 Dec Colin Crofts |
* In the hare's defence, the web-site had a link to this picture that was located precisely at the OS grid coordinates. Please click on the picture to the left. What3words took you exactly to the parking space. |
NOTES ON RUN 591 ON WEDNESDAY 27 OCT 2021
FROM LOWER BOURNE RECREATION CLUB (GR 446849) passwords.impeached.burns
Hare: Steve Booker (Dickhead)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) , Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), John Elder (Seis Matters), Alstair Gilbert (Squiffy) and Denise Catlin (Flying Doctor)
There wasn't much sunshine around but an intrepid group gathered to hear what DH had to say. There were no stiles and little shiggy but lots of sand. The trails were 4 miles for the runners and 1.7 for the walkers. We all set off along the main road for a while with the runners soon disappearing down the hill before turning left into the jungle. They were followed, eventually, by the walkers who started on the first part of a long, steep hill climb. At the top we were alarmed to discover a short downhill bit that was quickly followed by a much steeper rise and just as long incline. Once more down went we and could now see the runners hunting for their trail which they eventually found. After that we heard very little of them until we were all back at the start. Discussion about our next move ended with the view that The Fox car parking could be difficult and the beers very expensive. One or two had to leave anyway and those that were left were persuaded by the ever generous YP that he carried enough beers for us all. How pleasant that was as evening light lowered and the beer bottles emptied. So, many thanks DH and YP.
OnOn
Next:
10 Nov John Elder - Selborne Recreation Club
24 Nov Simon Judd -
8 Dec VOLUNTEER, please
22 Dec Colin Crofts
NOTES ON RUN 590 ON WEDNESDAY 13 OCT 2021
FROM FOX AND GOOSE, GREWELL, RG29 1BY (GR 718513 ) pixel.overture.observer
Hare: Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Simon Judd (3/4d), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Ian Gallaway (Missed Direction), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Abi McConnell (NNY), Mrs McConnell (Mrs BFB), Rob McConnel (Big Fat Bastard), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), KimiThomason (Mole) and Anni Toh (NNY)
It was a great turn out for Squiffy's latest lay with a cloudy sky and warmish temperature Our recently joined members and new runners were welcomed in the circle After a quick briefing we set off down the road and into the fields with a warning to avoid the cattle in the field. It proved to be not a problem as they were all lying down and in so doing disproved the old wife's tale that rain was indicated - it stayed dry. Through the church grounds we progressed and in typical Squiffy fashion we ventured on long periods of running and walking. The runners disappeared into the far distance while the walkers discussed whether or not to take a short cut. Initially the answer was that we should follow the runners on the longer stretches but minds were changed when the walkers changed tack and followed the hedgerow to join the runners trail on the way back. The runners soon met and overtook the walkers who took a shorter way home and got stuck into the ales. A pleasant rest period was enjoyed.
OnOn
Next:
27 Oct Steve Booker -
10 Nov John Elder - Selborne Recreation Club
24 Nov Simon Judd -
8 Dec VOLUNTEER, please
22 Dec Colin Crofts
NOTES ON RUN 589 ON WEDNESDAY 29 SEP 2021
FROM CURZON BRIDGES CAR PARK (GR 922562 )
cover.departure.euphoric
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), John Hirst (Machinist), Ian Angel (Hippo), Simon Judd (3/4d) and Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant).
The gods were on the side of YP nad MR when they decided the final recce of the walkers' trail should be on Monday afternoon rather than Tuesday morning with the former being selected. They had a delightful walk around the route in brilliant sunshine. Tuesday morning dumped floods of rain. Wednesday afternoon was bright and sunny once again – good luck was with us but not so many Hashers turned up. A pity. The trail was very well thought out and truly delightful with the walkers and runners meeting several times during the run. It was interesting that both runners and walkers finished within a few minutes of each other. The ever generous YP refreshed all with beers from his boot (his car boot, that is). With thirsts quenched all set off home highly contented after a most attractive and clever trail...
Squiffy volunteered to lay a trail again before he departs for the Lebanon once more
OnOn
Next:
13 Oct Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy) - Fox and Goose, Grewell RG29 1BY (GR 718513 ) pixel.overture.observer
27 Oct HARES WANTED AGAIN. Potential for cancellation of runs or late notification.
10 Nov
NOTES ON RUN 588 ON WEDNESDAY 15 SEP 2021
FROM ODIHAM WHARF CAR PARK (GR 747517) RG29 1AN unspoiled.founding.craftsman
Hare: Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy)
Hounds: Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), John Hirst (Machinist), Ian Angel (Hippo), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) and Bill Prescott (Bolton Bollocks)
A goodly group gathered and got going- well, the runners did; they were sent off promptly before the telephone call telling us that a new runner was on his way to join us “...in five minutes!” So it was that the walkers now set off with Bolton Bollocks in our midst. No time to greet him or make him welcome. Squiffy told us that he would lead the walkers around a variable route that was decided to be in the 3 mile region. It was pleasant to be alongside a different part of the canal (now very muddy) in less well known wooded countryside. We walked off with some distant calls from the runners until we at last came to another bridge where a pause was deemed suitable. We were now in open fields for a while before plunging back into woodland where Squiffy had managed to find some shig – in several places. Once we were back at the car park we could feel that it had been longer than usual but not as badly off as the runners who were still running after one and three-quarters of an hour and over six miles of confused trail finding.
Now it happens that not many saw, or noted, the last notes that suggested we should carry our own drinks and chairs and recover in the car park. Very few had such provision so we ended up in the Waterwitch after all. Very pleasant in the setting sunshine.
OnOn
Next:
29 Sep HARE WANTED. Potential for cancellation or late notification...
NOTES ON RUN 587 ON WEDNESDAY 1 SEP 2021
FROM POTTERS STEAKHOUSE (GR 894549 ) saying.spark.youth
Hares: Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Brian Langford (Cyclone)
Hounds: Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) and John Hirst (Machinist)
Off through the Canal Centre went the runners closely (for a while) followed by the walkers. Over the canal went we apart from YP who was looking for a bit more adventure on the wrong side. That was the last seen of the runners with the walkers meandering beside the canal path for a while until all were well apart. It was a pleasant, cloudy bit of exercise that finished up at The Miners Arms that sadly had only one ale on tap.
For the next meet, there was a thought that we would sit in the car park so bring your chairs and a can or two for post Hash imbibing...
OnOn
Next:
15 Sep - Alister Gilbert (Squiffy) - Odiham,Wharf Car Park (GR 747517 ) RG29 1AN unspoiled.founding.craftsman
29 Sep HARE WANTED
NOTES ON RUN 586 ON WEDNESDAY 18 AUG 2021
FROM MAULTWAY CAR PARK (GR 899617) (creatures.ruling.balanced)
Hares: Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Derrick Gray (Prime8)
Hounds: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) , Colin Crofts (French Leave), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), John Hirst (Machinist) Annie To (NNY), Neil Thomason (Fanny Sniffer), and Kimi Thomason (Mole)
An early lack of discipline saw the runners taking off before the circle was called and our new Hashers were welcomed to the pack. This was exacerbated by Prime8 asking if any walkers wanted to follow him and MR's positive response was ignored as the walkers also departed before he'd closed his car boot. Within moments there was no sign of runner or walker so MR had little knowledge of what went wrong en route with either group. However not being deterred and after a couple of wrong turns, MR found a trail which he followed for a good while and after asking passing other walkers of any signs or sounds of any Hashers. Negatives galore. Anyway, pressing on, there was a trail to follow with occasional gaps. A very steep downward hill was a bit of a problem for the lonely walker with now warning of what was about to test anyone on trail - The Horrific Half Mile. This was a near invisible marked route, the close high bracken interlaced with gorse, brambles tall grass and overhanging tree/shrub branches over rough patches underfoot. It was with great relief to eventually escape and get on to more open and clear paths down to the tunnel under the roadway. No one else could be seen and there were no sounds of approaching hashers but there was a re-group sign on the ground. Eventually most of the runners and all the walkers arrived having been hugely lost in the wilderness complaining that they could not find the trail... When the harumphing had finished and more of Cuddles' delicicious baking was enjoyed (for which many thanks Cuddles) it was decided to go to the Pine Ridge Golf Club for resuscitation outside in the early evening sunshine. The ever generous YP provided some very welcome chips so many thanks, too, to YP.
OnOn
Next:
1 Sep – Sony Tone and Cyclone – Potters Steakhouse (GR 894549 ) - saying.spark.youth
15 Sep -
29 Sep - MORE HARES STILL WANTED, please
NOTES ON RUN 585 ON WEDNESDAY 4 AUG 2021
FROM BENTLEY RECREATION GROUND (GR SU787442 )
Hare: Steve Booker (Dickhead)
Hounds: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Ian Angell (Hippo), Adrian Baker (Action Man), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), John Elder (Seis Matters), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril).
The weather was marvellous, the countryside grand and the company as good as can be. And the Trail? It was most stylish (or in my vernacular it was full of bl**dy stiles – badly designed ones (too high) badly maintained (rotting and wobbly) and badly positioned). Apart from that it was wonderful. Hippo and MR were well left behind having wandered off trail early on and a bit weary on our return home to be greeted across the field by a wondrous sight – it was YP coming to greet us with a cold beer in each hand! Such a marvellous welcome! Then there were delicious biscuits provided again by Cuddles, for which many thanks.
OnOn
Next:
18 Aug - Les Salmon(Ever Ready) and Derrick Gray Prime8) - Maultway car park SU899617, post code GU15 1PP (creatures.ruling.balanced)
1 Sep - HARE STILL WANTED please.
NOTES ON RUN 584 ON WEDNESDAY 21 JUL 2021
FROM THE WHITE HART PUB, HOLYBOURNE (GR SU736409)
Hare: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Ian Angell (Hippo), Adrian Baker (Action Man), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Luke Ripley (Caboose), John Elder (Seis Matters) and Simon Judd (3/4d).
It was warmish by recent temperature standards and nobody was complaining. It was grand to find Seis back with the pack although (sensibly) walking the runners trail as he repairs. Then there was a great return of 3/4d (those who have not known or now forgotten 3/4d (three and fourpence or for the full interpretation three shillings and four pence)). The Hare's brief was short and included drinks hidden on the way round within a short distance of a circle with 'D' in the middle if the correct trail was followed. The runners found the cache but the walkers missed out but had the advantage of an early arrival back at the pub. The trail led off through the edge of the village and soon into the the local jungle and fields with sloshy parts on the way. There was sufficient shade and the sunshine not too hot. The pub was welcoming as the weary supped the cool drinks in the pub's garden. All in all, a good trail (and excellent company of course. Cuddles (who had a nasty, crashing, bloody fall on the runner's trail) spoiled us again with her production of the most delicious rock cakes. In the absence of YP – “Your buns were much appreciated.” Many thanks...
NB for the next run: Bring your own drinks and chairs for post run celebrations if you want. No bar service is available at the Recreation Ground
OnOn
Next:
4 Aug - Steve Booker (Dickhead) - Bentley Recreation Ground. GR 787442 near post code GU10 5JA (flop.shredder.buckets)
18 Aug - Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Derrick Gray (Prime8) - Maultway car park SU899617, post code GU15 1PP (creatures.ruling.balanced)
1 Sep - ? ? ? STILL WANTED. please.
NOTES ON RUN 583 ON WEDNESDAY 7 JUL 2021
FROM BADSHOT LEA FOOTBALL CLUB (GR SU 823448 )
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Ian Angell (Hippo), Adrian Baker (Action Man),
Dianne Barns (DonTwananame), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Les Salmon(Ever Ready),
Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
First, apologies for not mentioning in the last report that after Run 582 we sat in delightful sunshine in a grassy open area in the woods enjoying delicious Victoria sponge cake baked by YP. Today's run we were presented with some truly the tastiest of scones from Cuddles. It was YP who spoke highly of the scones with “Thank you, Janie, for your splendid buns – really fruity and spicy”. And yes, the run was very interesting. It was, so we were warned, a bit muddy in parts after the recent rain and there is a bit where it was impossible to lay the flour. Long grasses and stinging nettles and thistles and brambles made for difficult progress but we had been told that if there appeared to be a pathway of sorts, then it was the trail and just follow the imaginary path. The path we were on was not 'On' but we eventually came across the reported path. Anyway, all returned safely and we enjoyed more sunshine with rewards of thirst quenching beers in the garden of the Royal Oak and very pleasant it was . BUT chips not on offer...
Next:
21 Jul - Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox) - The White Hart Pub, Holybourne SU736408 (vine.using.surprises)
4 Aug - Steve Booker (Dickhead) - Bentley Recreation ground. SU787442 GU10 5JA (flop.shredder.buckets )
18 Aug ? ? ?
NOTES ON RUN 582 ON WEDNESDAY 23 JUN 2021
FROM ABBOTS WOOD INCLOSURE (GR SU 811411)
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Ian Angell (Hippo), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Adrian Baker (Action Man) Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Jo Johnson (Dodo), Dianne Barns (DonTwananame), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Tim Dodd (Hanging About), Jamie Dodd, Sarah (NNY), Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Amdy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) and Les Salmon(Ever Ready).
Once again we were blessed with wonderful weather for Yellow Peril's latest offering – and what an offering it was (and many thanks YP for agreeing once more to lay a trail when no one else seemed to want to!). Two trails, one each for the walkers and runners. It was a good turnout with only four and a half walkers. The four and a half soon became three and a half but we could hear some distant cries from the runners who had been warned of potential slippery bits on the clay near the old kiln, and an abundance of underfoot dampness at some points. There were very good reports from the runners and an admittance from the walkers that they didn't go the whole way leaving YP disgusted with their behaviour. An interesting photo was taken of the runners and the rumour that Squiffy is still stuck in the system is just not true...
Next:
7 Jul - Colin and Leslie Crofts – TBN keep an eye on our web site 21 Jul - Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox) – Location TBN 4 Aug - Steve Booker (Dickhead) - Location TBN
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NOTES ON RUN 581 ON WEDNESDAY 9 JUN 2021
FROM HAWLEY MEMORIAL HALL (GR SU 850593)
Hares: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) and Anne Holland (Cloggs)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Ian Angell (Hippo), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Adrian Baker (Action Man) Steve Bridges (Hobble), Roland Cox (Fairy Snow), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
Once more summer was with us as we moved from the sunny car park into a spooky, darkened set of woods with prickly gorse and holly and knobbly tree roots across the path. It was not the fastest of starts but it had been laid in a different area than anticipated by the hare. What had happened was that Easy Rider had changed his mind and told me on the previous meet of the change. My memory is not what it used to be and I got home and thought no more about the change. It was most fortunate that Cloggs prompted ER when observing that The Alma pub was rather a long way from the course near Mr Bumbles! Now, the moral of this story is that hares must check that their intended laying is at the correct location as shown on our web site and has all the correct grid references and What 3 Words. Anyway thanks to ER and C's flexibility and local knowledge we had a thorughly pleasant route through the woods and the walkers actually managed to walk most ot the runners course that evetuall led to Hawley Lake and beyond. It was in part of the latter area that we transversed an even darker area where well-leafed trees were joined by copious Rhododendrons. It had been a good varied trail and much appreciated. The big disappointment was that only three of us went on to Mr Bumble where there was plenty of space indoors and out and some truly delicious beer to be quaffed...
We still urgently need more hares, please
Next:
23 Jun -
7 Jul - Colin and Leslie Crofts – The Royal Oak, Wrecclesham (GR SU824447 refills.noise.captive)
21 Jul -
4 Aug -
NOTES ON RUN 580 ON WEDNESDAY 26 MAY 2021
FROM OLD GUILDFORD ROAD
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Janie Britton (Cuddles) and Richard Britton (Sex Slave)
Hounds: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Ian Angell (Hippo), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Anne Holland(Cloggs), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Steve Booker (Dickhead), and Adrrian Baker (Action Man).
It was another glorious, sunny afternoon as the hares, having just finishing laying the trail were asked by a very attractive young woman what MR was doing with a “plumbers plunger”. MR offerred a demonstration and the conversation started. It seemed that she was possibly a bird warden of some sort, but our pleasant chat finished when she turned out to be a school teacher who was about to be late so she had to dash off happy that we kept to paths so didn't upset ground nesting birds. Next, the pack was confronted by what used to be known as a Range Warden who wanted to know if we had booked in for our meet. He and MR chatted for a while but it made starting ten minutes late (this was fortuitous as it allowed the late arrivals to be not left behind). The trail headed off northwards, uphill to the top and then steeply downhill before rising again and over the road into a less used area. It was very pleasant with the sun shining through the trees as the movers followed the trail back over the road through the training trenches. Pleasant complimentary remarks back at the start told us that the trail had been a success and as hare I was very thankful to the brace of Brittons for helping me out – I couldn't have done it alone, that's for sure...
We still need more hares, please
Next:
9 Jun TBC - Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) Hawley Memorial Hall, GR SU850593 , W3W: loaders.punctual.motoring
23 Jun -
7 Jul -
21 Jul -
NOTES ON RUN 579 ON WEDNESDAY 12 MAY 2021
FROM ODIHAM WHARF CAR PARK (GR 747517)
Hares: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox) and Sarah Nagle (Petal),
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Ian Angell (Hippo), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Jo Johnson (Dodo), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant) Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Anne Holland(Cloggs), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Steve Bridges (Hobble) and Adrrian Baker (Action Man)
What a glorious, sunny afternoon it turned out to be. As ever there were mutterings about being too hot when we were not used to it but it was a very welcome change. There was an indisciplined start when the first tranche set off closely followed by impatient runners and walkerst who had had enough of waiing around. However, once on the way there was a super duper trail with a mixture of running (or walking) through built up areas but soon out into the open countryside that was truly beautiful. For the laggards and gentle walkers there were a goodly number of open areas where those at the back of the field observed the runners searching for the trail in the distance and watching their progress. It meant that MR and Hobble at the back of the walkers were able to catch up and even get into the lead at one point. But that didn't last for long. The walkers had been warned that the first part was on the runners' trail but at the cannal they were advised just to follow the canal back to the car park (make sure you take the correct turn at the canal was sage advice). Meanwhile the runners set off on their trail for a longer run home.
Hopefully, this was the last run requiring booking-in and keeping in groups. Phew!
We still need more hares, please
OnOn
Next:
26 May - Mountain Rescue and a nice helper (please) - Old Guildford Road GR 903558 panther.explorer.undertone
9 Jun
23 Jun - Volunteers, nice or nasty, requested
7 Jul
NOTES ON RUN 578 ON WEDNESDAY 28 APR 2021
FROM BOURNE RECREATION GROUND (GR 849446),
Hare: Brian Langford (Cyclone) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Ian Angell (Hippo), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Jo Johnson (Dodo), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant) Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Luke Ripley (Caboose) and Alan Jewell (Easy Rider).
When Sony checked on line to see what Cyclone was planning for his trail, he was somewhat taken aback when he saw what was planned and immediately offered to help. So we ended up with two hares and a truly excellent trail. For the pair it was unfortunate that the warmer dry weather changed and they were both drenched by heavy rain while laying. Better fortune shone on the pack as they arrived to enjoy a now dry break in the weather. The first runners and walkers set off followed by the second batch all in good order apart from Shrinky. He was a bit late and not helped by any of the walkers who had not witnessed in which direction the runners had started. Seems he made a good choice as he went off to catch up. Meanwhile the walkers set off and soon disappeared from view leaving just Easy Rider and MR to follow once MR had remembered his essential walking stick. The directions and trail were very clear and the way well laid through fascinating countryside. We had been told that the walkers would join the runners in amongst the trees and hills and so it was that the last to start were actually just ahead of the first runners but not for long.. There was one hill towards the end of the event that was a bit of a trial trail which was a quite steep, smooth black topped road. Towards the viewable top it went round a bend so we could not see just how much further we had to toil. It was here that a puffing Squiffy overtook the weary aged giving us encouragement .Near the finish, a worried Silvier came back towards us and asked if we had seen Petal. She had overtaken us a bit further back but now was out of hearing any calls. Sony joined Silvier in the hunt while the tired oldies kept going for the finish. Most ended up in the Spotted Cow for a pint or two in good company enjoying much mirth. Many thanks to the hares for such a good trail and convivial aftermath.
OnOn
Those intending to be on the next run please book in with Mountain Rescue and state Runner or Walker. Start will be 3.00 pm or thereabouts.
Next:
12 May Steve Nagle (Silvier) – TBC
26 May Colin Crofts (French Leave)
9 Jun Volunteer please
NOTES ON RUN 577 ON WEDNESDAY 14 APR 2021
FROM POTTERS STEAKHOUSE(GR 893549 )
Hares: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) and Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue),
Hounds: Derrick Gray (Prime8), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Ian Angell (Hippo), Janie Briton (Cuddles), Richard Briton (Sex Slave), Tim Dodd (Hanging About), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Zoë Wright (Kanchhi), Stella Wright (Natini),Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Judith Bridges ('Er Indoors), Steve Bridges (Hobble)., Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Jo Johnson (Dodo) and Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy).
It was a good turnout for another good trail from a YP design. The runners were, sadly, rather few and ran off promptly. However the number of walkers was great and set of in three groups. MR was quite pleased to see the first walker group disappearing on the wrong hilltop, while the second was catching them up also on the wrong slope. Didn't really matter that the third party took the more attractive and easier-to-climb route that followed the correct trail. They only met again right at the end and had obviously taken their own routes. Ho hum, 'tis often thus. The Miners Arms was our final destination and we were shown to our tables set aside outside where we were able to consume quantities of chips and drink our first draught beer for ages. What a treat it was...
Now, we really do need more hares, please
OnOn
Those intending to be on the next run please book in with Mountain Rescue and state Runner or Walker. Start will be 3.00 pm or thereabouts.
Next:
28 Apr Brian Langford (Cyclone) - Bourne Recreation Ground (SU 8490644652), W3W: plot.wage.brotherly Post code GU10 4SA.
12 May Steve Nagle (Silvier) - TBC
26 May Volunteer please
NOTES ON RUN 576 ON WEDNESDAY 31 MAR 2021
FROM PINEWOOD PARK (GR 844572 )
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Derrick Gray (Prime8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), John Elder (Seis Matters), (Anna Elder (Janet & John), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Marijana Graham (Winnie), Adrian Baker (Action Man), Ian Angell (Hippo), Janie Briton (Cuddles), Richard Briton (Sex Slave), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Leslie Crofts (Ni Idea), Alan Jewell Easy Rider), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and Wally.
“Sadly, we have to cancel DH3 runs until we get better news. In the meantime, keep an eye out for the return of AH3.” These were the last comments from the report of Run 575 but we now progress hopefully to normallity whatever that may mean. It was a really good welcome turnout of 23 regulars and one not-so-regular for the re-starting of DH3 and Yellow Peril had laid a first class trail and this despite being seriously knocked off his bicycle, spending the day in A&E and suferring a badly damaged knee. I now publically pay a tribute to YP who has kept AH3 going throughout the pandemic. It was not easy but without his energy, determination and mainly good humour he has kept us exercised during difficult times and has had to put up with the whims of errant Hashers over many months. It was typical that he thought, not of himself after the accident but whether or not he would be able to lay a trail as planned. Well, he did and a good one it was even if Primate led his group of walkers over the trail the wrong way round. The groups all set off at safe distances for the jungle and managed to view Hawley Lake from an unusal viewpoint. At this spot our group discussed “Wally's Point where some time ago the infamous Wally was nudged into the water. There was now a quite extraordinary guest appearance by Wally in uniform providing a completely ‘out of body’ experience for an innocent and totally unsuspecting Petal.“I’ve put on an inch” a wild and waving Wally declared “so I’m not hashing” with which he disappeared almost as quickly as he’d appeared. Such is the hashing experience with Deepcut – you never know quite what might be round the corner. At the finish there was cake galore to celebrate the 40th run. The first, Victoria Sponge baked by YP that morning, followed by the provision of super chocolate and beetroot cup cakes from Cuddles and then blow me down up pops Winnie with more delicious chocolate cup cakes. Thank you bakers all for such a delightful feast. With a smile on his face and with a huge sigh of relief, YP announced the hibernation of AH3 after 40 meets and the re-awakening of DH3...
OnOn
Those intending to be on the next run please book in with Mountain Rescue and state Runner or Walker. Start will be 3.00 pm or thereabouts.
Next:
14 April YP and MR – Potters Steakhouse, GU16 6DD (GR SU 89352 54902) W3W: fines.rots.fits
28 April
12 May Volunteers, PLEASE
26 May
NOTES ON RUN 575 ON WEDNESDAY 9 DEC 2020
FROM OLD FRENSHAM ROAD LAYBY (GR 853434)
THE CHRISTMAS RUN
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Derrick Gray (Prime8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), John Elder (Seis Matters), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Steve Booker (Dickhead), Alex Coomber (Romping Donkey), Finn Coomber (Show Jumper), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Marijana Graham, and Adrian Baker (Action Man).
What a marvellous run it turned out to be. There had been a lot of rain and the forecast was not very promising, but real hashers don't worry too much about the state of the weather. The first group set off and caused the Hare much amusement as he could see them taking all the wrong options, but they eventually realised what had happened and they were off. The second group thought they wouldn’t make the same mistakes as they had had the opportunity to see what was happening before them. But slow learners as they proved to be, they still took a while to find the trail. Finally, the walkers set off picking up the late arriving Grahams. Marijana wanted to run, so took off in pursuit of her group just five minutes in front of her. The walkers followed the runners' route before being guided back down to the start point. It was a marvellous area and, although we had a little damp air around, we even had a period of welcome sunshine. All in all, it was a superb trail without too many kicked out markings.
Twelve hungry Hashers made it to the Barley Mow where they consumed pre-booked and truly tasty baguettes and some welcome beers. We were accommodated in a very smart stable that kept us warm and dry while the forecast rain caught up, Our grateful thanks to YP who had the difficult and much time consuming task of organising us and laying the trail. All in all a huge success...
Sadly, we have to cancel DH3 runs until we get better news. In the meantime, keep an eye out for the return of AH3
OnOn
Seasonal Greetings to all our readers, particularly for 2021
NOTES ON RUN 574 ON WEDNESDAY 9 DEC 2020
FROM YATELY COMMON CAR PARK on A30- (GR 833592)
Hares: Derrick Gray (Prime8) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready),
Hounds: John Elder (Seis Matters), Anne Holland (Cloggs) Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angel (Hippo), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Mike Johnson (ShrinkyDink, Steve W heeler (Yorkie), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
Planning for this meet was fraught with late entries leading to many amendments to the run plan and the frequent changes left the multitude of emails between the planners didn't help for an easy life particularly when emails were crossing in the ether! So, for the rest of the duration of Covid restrictions we are imposing a deadline of one week before the start date of each run. If you miss the deadline, don't expect to be welcome to join us!!
The weather was not so good – very overcast and damp, but at least it didn't rain on us. There was concern that Caboose had not joined us but he did turn up late and, because there was no on with a car to store his kit, meant he had to run with his pack By now, Squiffy got fed up with waiting for his 'bubble' to leave so he set off on his own (doubtless soon caught by the more fleet of foot behind). It was a very well laid trail that went through some really rather pleasant countryside. but also through lots and lots of shig. In the event there were just the two bubbles of runners and one of walkers this time joined by an injured Silvier. The walkers followed the start of the runners' trails and were caught up by Prime8 who joined us back to the start when he set off to make sure the runners were OK. By now, they were across the A30 and running through more familiar countryside before crossing back to return to the car park. It was a while before Prime8 got back but he was safe and sound.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
23 Dec - Colin Crofts and Yellow Peril
06 Jan – Volunteers required please
NOTES ON RUN 573 ON WEDNESDAY 28 OCT 2020
FROM SELBORNE ARMS- (GR 742335 or GU34 3JR)
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters)
Hounds: Anne Holland (Cloggs), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angel (Hippo), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Lucy Earle (Chastity Belt), Charles Earle (Isneesrbuggered), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Pippa Hocking (Nutcracker) and Aaron Hocking (Headplant)
Grateful thanks to Yellow Peril for his notes on the runners included below.
The timing was immaculate. Most of us left our abodes in sunshine and clear blue skies. But as we gathered in Selborne the skies rapidly darkened and on the dot of three o'clock the FRBs set off as a monsoonal deluge hit us. Incredibly heavy rain soon joined by hail and strong wind of great intensity hit home. Undeterred, Headplant, Silvier, Cloggs, YP and French Leave (who left shortly afterwards for pastures new with the SCBs – did we say something to upset him?) ploughed on through shiggy, trees and the onslaught to find open fields with electric fences and some drenched horses. After a few fleeting paths mis-leading the FRBs up on to the hanger and out again, the runners dropped down and then up to meet a ram and a flock of lively sheep on pretty dips of ever delightful Noar Hill. Silvier had a suspiciously high success rate with all the checks, but fell straight into a trap specially laid for him by the Hare sending him scuttling excitedly up and away over another hill, only to find he had to return, but somehow (using a classic Silvier short-cut) and in no time at all, he was out in front again. “It’s not a competition!” came the cries from behind, but to no avail. We were too wet to worry!
Meanwhile, the walkers, who had not yet started to follow the map and photo shots aid, had taken inadequate shelter under the tree behind the parked cars. Good news came from Cuddles who told us she had made lots of cakes to be fed to the hungry horde after the activity. It started to get cold and the rain continued. Hippo started the rot by going to his car for his wallet (we know what that means) and after discussion it was agreed that we should take shelter in the comfort of the bar and beer. Time for cake afterwards. We finished our drinks and ventured out now that the rain had ceased. We were encouraged to have some cake and didn't want to disappoint Hippo returned to the safety of the tavern, Prime8 decided he was too cold and set off for home. Four of us took on the challenge of shiggy filled paths for a bit of a walk. By the time we got back only Silvier and Petal were back with Seis and Hippo was still well settled in his chair.
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable and refreshing ‘runners’ trail and happiness amongst the walkers.
Well done Seis Matters and thank you. MR still has the very detailed map and instructions of the walkers' trail which will be kept until next time...
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
11 Nov Prime8 and Ever Ready – Yately Common Car Park on A30 - (GR 833592)
25 Nov
09 Dec More volunteers, please
23 Dec
NOTES ON RUN 572 ON WEDNESDAY 14 OCT 2020
FROM CROWTHORNE - (GR 846642 or GU45 7DG)
Hares: Anne Holland (Cloggs) and Alan Jewell (Easy Rider),
Hounds: Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Jill Debenham, Steve Osborne (Wally), Ray Darby (Radar).
There was a problem. The anticipated car park was no more and the area locked up. We parked wherever we could with most occupying a large, grassy roadside area. For MR it was a problem because he didn't see the Hash group at the side of the road and those who saw me, in true Hash Fashion, did not wave me down as I continued up the hill towards the prison. Having made phone contact it was ROT who directed the return. Having joined the pack there was some consternation when it was realised the Broadmoor may not be so secure when Wally appeared in our midst. However, it was he who sent me some notes on the runners run.
The ebullient Peril was like a man desperate for a pee and he soon had the runners following him at a pace. Silvier, despite claiming an injury, was soon leading the way with Caboose hanging onto his shirt tails. Cloggs had laid a trail for which checking became quite burdensome. Although front runners are supposed to call “On back” to save dedicated checkers like Wally further running, they didn't and he was lost for a while - this has happened to him at most hashes that he has been on for the last 30 years and he claims it isn't fair.
The trail went over hill and dale and with Cloggs overseeing all the way. On passing a large concrete building the pack tried to force Wally inside but he got away without incarceration.
Eventually runners met up with the walkers where Wally was pleasantly surprised to have less abuse hurled at him than normal (but Easy Rider tried!)
And so ended a good outing in new territory for most. Thanks Cloggs...
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
28 Oct - John Elder – tbc
11 Nov
25 Nov
More volunteers, please
NOTES ON RUN 571 ON 30 SEPTEMBER 2020
FOOTBALL CAR PARK BEYOND WELLINGTON STATUE (GR 821519)
Hares: Derrick Gray (Prime8) and Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue),
Hounds: Steve Nagle (SilvierFox), Colin Crofts (French Leave) John Elder (Seis Matters), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie). Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant). Ian Angel (Hippo) Richard Britton (Sex Slave). Jane Britton (Cuddles), Ian Angel (Hippo) and Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)/
It was a good turnout, particularly with the woeful warning of torrential rain. As it happened there was very little rain but how much more attractive the trail would have appeared better with sunshine. Perhaps the attendees were wondering if the two octogenarians were still up to it (laying a trail, that is) . It was YP who summed it up: “An excellent trail today. Short, sweet and we stayed dry “.Trails in the area are confined by increasing fences but there are still some good bits. MR was particularly chuffed when he heard that the whole pack crossed over the rather nasty, deep trench with standing water and just two unsupported tree branches to keep out of the water. Apparently to the left was a short search for a better crossing that led nowhere. If only someone had looked to the right...yes, there is a good path that avoids the obstacle.
RECEDING HARELINE
WANTED: Hashers to set trails for the rest of the year. Volunteers please let Mountain Rescue know: rca.mcallister@gmail,com
14 Oct Anne Holland (Cloggs) - Upper Broadmoor Road,
Crowthorne, RG45 7DG
(GR 846642 Three words
hilltop.snowstorm.dating)
28 Oct John Elder (Seis Matters)
11 Nov
25 Nov
9 Dec
23 Dec
NOTES ON RUN 570 ON 16 SEPTEMBER 2020
TWELSELDOWN SPORTS CLUB CAR PARK (GR 821519 )
Hares: Steve Nagle (SilvierFox)
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave) John Elder (Seis Matters), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie),. Les Salmon (Ever Ready) ,Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy) and Derrick Gray (Prime8)
Our many thanks to Silvier for laying an excellent trail at short notice. The six runners set off at the correct time and crossed the football pitch (well, around the football pitch - it was the walkers who started with a shortcut). As the pack disappeared on the long way uphill, the walkers were somewhat taken aback by Yorkie running towards us – he'd lost the pack and was searching for the trail (and the pack). The walkers continued on their way only to hear Yorkie (at least we think it was Yorkie) calling on. So we knew he was OK but we could hear the howling pack in another direction. We, the walkers, kept coming across the trail but we were making for the lake around which we wandered in the beautiful sunshine. It was towards the end that we bumped into the pack a bit further down the track but were set on our way home. Surprise , surprise when we came across Yorkie facing us once more. We all got home eventually although Primate8 and Cyclone caused YP concern when they didn't turn up for a while and he set off to check that they were all right. They were OK as MR and ER knew they were. Our thanks, too, for YP's generosity in providing restorative liquids aiding our resuscitation. Quote from YP which sums up many thoughts: “It was a great trail (runners 1hr 17mins).Thoroughly enjoyable and much enjoyed – Silvier did us proud. Squiffy said it was just like the Lebanon (except for the lack of cicadas chirruping and the scent of pines).I could see what he meant – it was indeed a lovely trail”
RECEDING HARELINE
WANTED: someone to set a trail for the 30 Sep and there after. Volunteers please let Mountain Rescue know asap..
30 Sept
4 Oct
14 Oct
NOTES ON RUN 569 ON 02 SEPTEMBER 2020
ST JAMES'S CHURCH CAR PARK, ROWLEDGE
Welcome back to
DH3 Hashers after the easing of lockdown
Hares: Colin
Crofts (French Leave) and Leslie Crofts (No Idea)
Hounds: Dianne
Barnes (DonTwananame), Steve Booker (Dickhead), John Elder (Seis Matters),
Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Jane Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave),
Brian Langford (Cyclone), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Sarah Nagle
(Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier), Tracy Pritchard, Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie),.
It was a good turnout (eventually 15) for the
re-start but things got off to a bad start when we were told that School Road
was closed for re-surfacing but failed to tell us that all approaches leading
into the road were also closed. Having driven around for ten minutes I asked a
local how I could get to the church and was advised to “ask a man if he will let
you through the barrier”. I did. He did. But by the time I arrived at the RV
some four minutes late there was no sign of the pack. Not even YP's yellow
mobile which is the usual indicator of the packs parking (having forgotten that
he, too, is a local). Fortunately, Dianne and Tracey were also looking for the
start so we three walkers walked. YP's report indicated that the runner's trail
was a good one, well laid and thoroughly enjoyed by Silvier, YP, Yorkie and a
recently fit-again Seis Matters. Petal, Sex and Slave managed to keep up due to
some cunning loops that, and to quote French Leave, "might be rather irritating"
for the FRBs. The route covered some attractive, fresh and varied parts of Alice
Holt across a couple of streams, a Wendy House bridge and a wobbly plank. The
walkers hadn't been on their way for long when they managed to lose the trail -
several times. Then DH joined us having been caught out by the closures but he
soon took off in pursuit of some faster movers. We walkers eventually met up
with the runners before finishing. Despite being spotted no more than 200 metres
from the end, Silvier unaccountably vanished for a while, or perhaps he was
there all the time but making no sound. All got home, happy and enjoyed our
re-meeting after several months. The little bit of rain did not spoil the
event It is reported that the roads are now open again.
RECEDING HARELINE
Is there anyone willing to set a trail for the 16
Sep and there after? Please let me know asap.
16 Sept
30 Sept
4 Oct
14 Oct
NOTES ON RUN 568 ON 25 MARCH 2020
SANDY LANE, FRENCHAM (GR 860406 or GU10 2EX).
Hares Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril),
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) + , Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Colin Crofts (French Leave), and Leslie Crofts (No Idea).
When Hashers of DH3 were asked if they were interested in following a trail laid by the intrepid Yellow Peril on 25th there were nine confirmations given and only one later cancelling. Disappointing and in the event only three attended but an extra couple made up a bit. Wonderful area, gorgeous weather and good trail laying. Well, those who failed to turn up missed a really good one. We didn't bunch together at the start or finish and we kept largely in our pairs. First off it was the McAllisters who set of following the map (for which we were most grateful as it was needed many times) followed later by the Crofts and then later still (as ever) Squiffy too set off. It didn't take the McAs long to go wrong, followed for quite a long way by the Crofts who, later still, peeled off having decided to follow the leaders was not the right way. It was Squiffy last who set off and straight way spotted where the true trail went. So he soon caught up. |Anyway, YP was following his own trail to try to keep us on the straight and narrow but by this time Squiffy was also following the rest who were back on trail. There were a few families walking in the area but much of it was deserted. In the distance MR thought he heard an “On On” and sure enough it was FL and Squiffy who were catching us up. We all paused for a discussion (still well apart!) on which of the available short cuts we would take. Decision made and we were off up to the top of the long ridge. By now, Squiffy was getting a little concerned because he was meeting a train and he decided he should make for home but set off in the wrong direction (but still on trail). MR knew the short way home so called “On” down the hill and soon we were back where YP generously gave out beers to those who wanted one. Many thanks YP for a great trail and the welcome refreshment...
On On until some time in the future. Keep well and keep safe.
RECEDING HARELINE
08 April and thereafter – VOLUNTEERS not WANTED until further notice
NOTES ON RUN 567 ON 11 MARCH 2020
CAESAR'S CAMP CP, BOURLEY ROAD (GR 844509)
Hares: Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), John Elder (Seis Matters), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Jane Briton (Cuddles) Richard Briton (Sex Slave), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Simon Judd (3/4d), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie).
Was it the weather that brought out our pack? Or was it because RoT was laying her trail? Or was it just the sheer joy of Hashing in good weather over rugged countryside. To save you counting, there were 18 of us today for a good but testing trail – lots of hills to climb and enough shig to cause wet feet and mud clod footwear. There was consternation at the start and the pack was quickly spread about with the walkers taking a higher road from where they could watch the struggling runners. It was Silvier who, way too far off course, found the 'IN' trail and called all back. The watching walkers and exasperated hare called the pack to heel to join the walkers who were, at this point,' on trail. The runners swiftly readjusted their performance and went off leaving the half dozen walkers to find their own way home. It was apparent that the runners were going to be about half an hour after the walkers who sensibly pushed off to the beer stop at the Premier Inn. And pleasant it was, especially as RoT produced doughnuts and chocolate fingers in celebration of her upcoming special birthday which she will celebrate well away from our pack on 1st April.
PS. There is a petition on the rounds trying to get public access to all the military training areas around Aldershot. Please add your names to the Petition to maintain public access to MOD Land in Aldershot & District Areas
NOTES ON RUN 566 ON 26 FEBRUARY 2020
BLACKDOWN ROAD, DEEPCUT ( NEAR GU16 6QJ)
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Les Salmon (Ever
Ready), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Alistair
Gilbert (Squiffy), John Elder (Seis Matters), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) , Ian
Angell (Hippo),
Kim Dyos (Little Prick), Anne Holland (Cloggs) and Chris Holmes (Headley Hound).
After the recent dreadful weather today's sunshine was very welcome. The hare was eager to depart to enjoy his really rather good trail. He started, not with the traditional very short brief, but a well written and rather long address to the assembled masses (but not to Squiffy who still had not arrived). In a very loud voice he described much of what we could experience on the way round. (including a biscuit stop). Having Squiffy now with us, we set off along the road briefly when the hare was obviously delighted that the front runners had already gone wrong and were half way across the football field. This left the slower movers time to get ahead. Full of this essential knowledge, the wiser, slower movers made good progress through some close undergrowth and on to some good main paths. Shortly, it was apparent that there were now three groups: the FRBs, the trotters and the walkers. For a good bit the three stayed together but the slower groups soon got left behind. The trail was very well laid and easy to follow and led us through countryside that will be even better once spring has added a few leaves here and there. Group three were back finished with group two now at the front of the pack (having taken a bit of a short cut) and back on trail. Didn't last as the runners got their way and we were greeted with delicious Jaffa biscuits (NOT cakes). On to the Pine Ridge golf clubhouse we went for our beers and the hare very generously bought bowls of chips. Squiffy wasn't in the know so he bought some too so all enjoyed a great feast of good chips. A good finish to a good afternoon. Goodbye...
RECEDING HARELINE
11 Mar - Jane Cox and Les Salmon - Caesar's Camp CP, Bourley Road (GR 844509)
25 Mar - Anne Holland - NYK
NOTES ON RUN 565 ON 12 FEBRUARY 2020
CODY CLUB (GR 838540 or GU14 0LP)
Hares: Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), John Elder (Seis Matters), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) , Sarah Nagel (Petal) and Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox).
“The trail is laid in flour and sawdust and sometimes a mixture of both.” was a summary of part of the hare's briefing. Sawdust was of Mahogany? Sequoia? Red Pine? Or was it mixed with brown flour. The mixing resulted in a brownish/pinkish conglomeration that was a near perfect match for the autumnal leaves abounding on the forested floor. It was not easy to spot it on the ground but the advantage was that it did hold up the runners which gave the walkers the chance to keep up: until, eventually, the searching hounds - runners and walkers alike - were spread far apart and well separated. However, the weather was not too cold and the sunshine appreciated through countryside that was not unfriendly and, in places, quite pretty. The trail was a bit tricky in parts and that led to frustration for some confused by the camouflaged trail markers. Groups diminished as the search for flour/sawdust widened but eventually all got back in good spirits, although there was some disgruntlement from YP who has a low tolerance of anything less than a perfect trail - an almost impossible feat! Unfortunately it was one of those times that most had to rush off and unable to go to the Monkey Puzzle for refreshment. Thanks to the hares for a lovely trail - indeed an interesting tour of the countryside - but, please, no more mixing of the flour and sawdust.
(Advert for interested hares: a large block (about the size of four normal bricks) of wood chips in Wilco was just £2...)
RECEDING HARELINE
26 Feb - Mark Westcott - Blackdown Road, Deepcut ( near GU16 6QJ)
11 Mar - Jane Cox and Les Salmon - Caesar's Camp CP, Bourley Road (GR 844509)
25 Mar - Anne Holland - NYK
NOTES ON RUN 564 ON 29 JANUARY 2020
DARBY GREEN CENTRE, BLACKWATER (GR 836604 or GU17 0DT)
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Ian Crofts.
Hounds: Marijana Graham, Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie).
The sun was shining but the wind was not warm. The hare admitted his brother had helped him lay the trail but, a virgin, he decided never to Hash again, and he had departed before the pack arrived.. FL started his brief along the lines of: “When I recc'd the trail, it was OK and in a good state. But today it is muddy, very muddy in parts, and wet along other parts and has one point which is knee deep in water and unavoidable. It is a small area and the checks are no longer than two or three hundred metres so don't go any further! The trail is longish (four miles or thereabouts) but not as long as it was intended and it took longer to lay it than anticipated. Oh, yes, there is one regroup I forgot to lay so there are now only two.” With that the pack set off wondering what else could go wrong - runners to the fore with walkers walking. Over the football fields and over the road into the trees. It was good to be in an unfamiliar area and it was somewhat amazing that the walkers on several occasions beat the the runners to checks. It was towards the end that the walkers were well ahead making their own way back in the dry while the main pack wallowed in water - water on which quantities of floating horse dung accompanied them on the way home. It was also reported that at one point RoT lived up to her Hash name. Checks were carried out to ensure no one had contracted trench foot on the way. The Cricketers, as ever, served good ales and the approach road surface has been greatly improved.
On On
RECEDING HARELINE
12 Feb - Les Salmon and Jane Cox - Cody Club (GR 838540) or GU14 0LP)
26 Feb - Mark Westcott - NYK
11 Mar - Jane Cox and Les Salmon - Caesar's Camp CP, Bourley Road (GR 844509)
25 Mar - Anne Holland - NYK
NOTES ON RUN 563 ON 15 JANUARY 2020
POTTERS RESTAURANT (GR 894549)
Hares: Marijana Graham, Stephen Graham (Eeyore) and Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue)
Hounds: Mark Westcott
(Yellow Peril), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Andy
Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Libby
Ralph (Old Thumper)
Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Luke
Ripley (Caboose), and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
There was confusion at the start. At what time was the gathering to depart on their run - 2.30 or 3.00? The web site didn't specify a start time under NEXT RUN (so 3.00 ). but scroll down to RECEDING HARELINE and it showed 2.30. This was Eeyore's first trail for us and also Marijana's. It had taken a lot of reconnaissance and consideration and the outcome was highly successful. Unfortunately some the the trail had been swept away, obliterated, removed or otherwise disposed/destroyed. This was a bit troublesome at the start and occasionally on the way round. The trail set off over to the swung bridge on the canal and along the line of the canal with the walkers keeping to the tow path and the runners going off in the parkland on the first of many loops. Exquisite timing met the runners and walkers at the Guildford Road bridge. Over the canal we went and the pack moved on along the road to shortly to turn back into forested areas where the one and only regroup awaited. Not to be held up by the slower moving walkers the main pack moved off up and down some hills into more unfamiliar areas where loops and turns kept the pack guessing all the way back to the On Inn. It had been an enjoyable event.
RECEDING HARELINE
29 Jan - Colin Crofts - Darby Green Centre
12 Feb - Les Salmon and Jane Cox - Cody Club
26 Feb - Mark Westcott - NYK
11 Mar - Jane Cox and Les Salmon - Bourley Road
25 Mar - ???
Happy New Year to all Hashers (wherever you may be...)
NOTES ON RUN 562 ON 1 JANUARY 2020
CURZON BRIDGES CAR PARK (GR 923562 )
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Dianne, Tracy and Paul, John Elder (Seis Matters), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Ian Angell (Hippo), Marijana Graham, Stephen Graham (Eeyore) , Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Sarah Britton (Little Rabbit), Diane Barnes (DonTwannaname), Denise Catlin (Flying Doctor), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Simon Judd (3/4d), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Fiona, Kim Dyos (Little Prick), Adrian Lambeth, (Nettles), Steve Nagle (Silvier), Kevin Raine (Non-Stick), James Roberts (No Entry),
Things got off to a bad start when we were told that chips could not be served as there was only the one chef who wasn't back on duty until 5.00pm. Groans were overcome by shots of a rather nice brandy that did the rounds. Then another setback. The Hash circle was interrupted by a mother and son whose car was well and truly in the shig. So a pause to proceedings while a bunch of runners ran down the road to assist. After considerable huffing puffing, pushing and pulling the car just would not budge. By now the concern was that we would be out in the dark if we didn't get a move on so we got leaving the driver to contact recovery assistance. Eventually the runners spread out over the wide open field only to be called back to cross over the first obstacle – a steep deep ravine while the walkers were led by a flatter path and watched the runners run (or climb is more accurate). The running pack kept running off into the distance and YP was putting down markers to guide the walkers to the easier parts of the trail. Meanwhile the pack was negotiating some very steeply undulating areas. Eventually, on the other side of the main road the trail was considerably 'smoother' and led them back to the bridge under the railway and back up over to the 'home' side. Through the close undergrowth YP had cleared a marvellous path that led through some glorious swamp. It was here that Cloggs came across French Leave up to his knee in a bog. He declined any immediate help as he was trying to gently withdraw his leg complete with shoe. He succeeded. The trail also included a false trail that crossed over the fast running water feature. No Entry led a group of four across this exceeding wet route only to find the false marker on the far side while Yorkie was still half way across. The fun and games ended up a near vertical rise back to the roadside where YP had fixed a rope to assist the less acrobatic hashers to reach the top. Back 'home' after exactly one hour's running there was bubbly in the form of Presecco and Champagne with some mince pies (en lieu of chips). So on to Potter's it was that we sat with our beers and no chips...
RECEDING HARELINE
15 Jan - Stephen Graham - Potters Restaurant (GR 894549 or GU14 0LP)
29 Jan - Hare wanted, please
12 Feb - Les Salmon and Jane Cox
NOTES ON RUN 561 ON 18 DECEMBER 2019
BAT & BALL PUB (GR 833444 )
Merry Christmas to all Hashers (wherever you may be...)
Photos by Simon Judd
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Leslie Crofts (No Idea)
Hounds: John Elder (Seis Matters), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Ian Angell (Hippo), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Marijana Graham, Anne Holland (Cloggs), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Simon Judd (3/4d), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Kevin Macready (Jovial Plodder), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
There was a good turnout for the Christmas Bash and what a Hash it turned out to be! Starting from the bottom of the bowl in which the pub sits, the path led steeply up to the top of the ridge where the pack was stumped (this gave the slower ones amongst us to join the main pack). It took some searching but eventually the dulcet tones of YP were heard from afar as the herd followed the beckoning shout. It was not long before the split between runners and walkers was created and not much longer before the walkers pack split into two, the faster walker went on and got lost somewhere while the slower, more careful, more discerning walkers followed No Idea who gained her Hash Tag as a result of her navigational inability. She did manage to get us back with much help and collective decisions from the small group who got home while the faster runners were still abroad in the woods. Meanwhile the main runner pack was flourishing. Colin had promised us a vertically demanding hash and he wasn't kidding. I can't even remember a horizontal section other than the stream which was encountered with some regularity in between that Farnham South phenomenon, the footpath at the bottom of the garden. From one of the last checks, YP and SM found the trail and set off with more speed rather than haste and failed to notice that they were repeating an earlier part of the hash. When the penny dropped, SM returned to the check and followed the last of the runners back to the car park whilst YP took an interesting but longer diversion through the neighbourhood. What a great Hash and many thanks to the Crofts for laying another excellent trail and setting up the celebration party in the pub and what an excellent spread the Bat & Ball produced.
Receding Hareline:
1 Jan 20 - Mountain Rescue and Yellow Peril - Pirbright Road - GR 923562 (Curzon Bridges)
NB: Start time brought forward to 2.30 pm
It will get rid of any over-indulgence from the night before...and you will have the satisfaction of having been on the best run of the year (thus far)
Nearer the time, PLEASE LET US KNOW (rca.mcallister@gmail.com) if you intend to be with us as we need catering numbers.
15 Jan – Les Salmon who will be celebrating being allowed to run again...
NOTES ON RUN 560 ON 4 DECEMBER 2019
ROWHILL COPSE CAR PARK - GR 849500)
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters)
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Marijana Graham, Anne Holland (Cloggs), Alistair Gilbert (Squiffy) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
This was a trail of three distinct parts: starting in the fascinating, twisting, hilly Rowhill Nature Reserve, the trail led to a patch of road running that in turn led to the military training area of mixed open and well-treed area. The Rowhill NR is a fun place to start with many paths and being generally flat to ease the hashers' muscles into a false sense of security for between the CP and the main road lies a quite unexpected hill that is so steep, steps are required to ascend it. At the first regroup, there was a consensus that the trail lay across the road - wrong. To avoid the perilous road crossing, a street run was incorporated to get the hash down to some sensible traffic lights that turned out to have the longest phasing in Britain; this managed to split the pack most effectively. The walkers missed out the middle bit and continued straight to the third part where they tried to avoid the steeper parts (successfully, unlike the runners). Entering the woods, the front runners fell for one of two gratuitous loops that tried to keep the pack together. Regrouping for a magnificent view looking towards Caesar's Camp the trail inevitably dived down into the valley. The runners now were enjoying the countryside on a well laid trail until YP decided to check left and succeeded in short-cutting the trail (and why not). YP's absence worried the more sensitive members of the pack and YP, AoT and Cloggs commandeered a lady to help search for (and I quote) an elderly gentleman wearing bright yellow socks. On return to the car park it was discovered that YP was already home safe and sound.
On On.
Receding Hareline:
18 Dec - Colin Crofts - Bat & Ball Pub - GR 833444 - (or GU10 4SA) NB: Start time brought forward to 2.30 pm
1 Jan 20 - Mountain Rescue and Yellow Peril - Pirbright Road - GR 923562 (Curzon Bridges) NB: Start time brought forward to 2.30 pm
REMINDER
It will get rid of any over-indulgence from the night before...and you will have the satisfaction of having been on the best run of the year (thus far)
Nearer the time, PLEASE LET US KNOW if you intend to be with us as we need catering numbers.
15 Jan - Volunteers, please
NOTES ON RUN 559 ON 20 NOVEMBER 2019
REAR OF HAWLEY MEMORIAL HALL GR 851593 (or GU17 9BW)
Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Leslie Crofts.
Hounds: Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Simon Judd (3/4d), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Ian Angell (Hippo), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch). Marijana Graham, Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Chris Holmes (Headley Hound), Sarah Nagle (Petal).
Cars arrived and kept arriving. In the end 21 Hashers turned up for what was another marvellous trail from the Crofts. We started off going down the fence line through the woods in a south-westerly direction. Having been warned of slippery bits, we soon found them but all survived the initial run through fairly close countryside. There were so many alternative paths to take that made life interesting and well positioned regroups tended to keep the pack together. Calling from the pack was good. As light started to fade and dark approached your scribe decided to set off on a short cut. “Easy...” said our hare. “Go straight down there and you will know where you are...” Well, I didn't know where I was but kept straight on until I had a choice of either left or right. Went left and after a while heard and then met up with the pack going in the opposite direction. At this stage MR was already limping because his foot had really banged into a root or large stone on the hard, stony path and he went for a real humdinger of a fall. Eventually getting up (it took a while) it dawned that the short cut was, after all, a long cut! So, fellow Hashers, please don't let the old guy go off on his own again. There must be others who would appreciate the alternative countryside and perhaps even know the right way home...
On On.
Receding Hareline:
4 Dec - John Elder - Rowhill Copse Car Park - GR 849500 (or GU11 3BD)
18 Dec - Colin Crofts - Bat & Ball Pub - GR 833444 - (or GU10 4SA)
1 Jan 20 - Mountain Rescue and Yellow Peril - Pirbright Road - GR 923562 (Curzon Bridges)
A lot of time and effort has been already been put into this trail. It will be
a great one!
If you've been on good trails before just wait until you've completed this!!
NB: Start time brought forward to 2.30 pm
It will get rid of any over-indulgence from the night before...and you will have the satisfaction of having been on the best run of the year (thus far)
We would like to know if you intend to be with us as we need catering numbers.
So please let us know and commit yourselves.
15 Jan - Volunteers, please
NOTES ON RUN 558 ON 6 NOVEMBER 2019
PIRBRIGHT ROAD - GR 923562 (CURZON BRIDGES)
Hare: Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Simon Judd (3/4d), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Ian Angell (Hippo), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Charles Earle ('is Kneesisbuggered), Lucy Earl (Chastity Belt), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
The Hare had a happy morning and early afternoon laying his trail in sunshine. For the rest it was weatherly damp and dull but spirits were high as the pack trotted off down the road to the bridge under which we went. Those susceptible to superstition may have been worried about thirteen of us starting off, little knowing that their saviour, 3/4d, was arriving late. Sadly he missed the enormous arrow at the edge of the car park and he went off across the field before realising he was wrong. The trail was well laid and he managed to complete the whole run on his own. The main body had followed the trail through once familiar territory, now overgrown but still navigable. And not too deep in shig. Hills aplenty. Darkness setting in early. The professional walkers were not to be seen again but as their cars were no longer in the car park it was assumed that they were safe and sound in the pub. They weren't in the pub and had pushed off before the real runners (but not 3/4d who was too far in the wrong direction) and a couple of laggards met up at Potters for resuscitation.
On On...
Receding Hareline:
20 Nov - Colin Crofts - Rear of Hawley Memorial Hall GR 851593 (or GU17 9BW)
4 Dec - John Elder - Rowhill Copse Car Park - GR 849500 (or GU11 3BD)
18 Dec - Colin Crofts - Bat & Ball Pub - GR 833444 - (or GU10 4SA)
1 Jan 20 – Richard McAllister (and YP) - Pirbright Road - GR 923562 (Curzon Bridges)
NOTES ON RUN 557 ON 23 OCTOBER 2019
FROM WELLINGTON STATUE - GR 853511
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Anne Holland (Cloggs), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Richard Briton (Sex Slave), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Simon Judd (3/4d), Kim Dyos (Little Prick), John Elder (Seis Matters), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
Your decrepit scribe was invited to accompany the walkers - with no Hippo it was thought that someone should make sure that the walkers didn't just go straight to the bar. So, what happened on the trail? Rumour had it that it was a very good one that started by taking the runners off in the direction of Aldershot town. Round the perimeter of the field went the pack while the walkers briefed the delayed Sex Slave who thought he may walk. Then 3/4d who was seriously delayed by traffic and received a personal roadside briefing declared he could catch up (he did). Meanwhile, the walkers had reached the road crossing into the lower reaches of the Caesar's Camp area. Seis was off straight into the wrong bit of jungle with Yorkie striding off up the hill in the generally correct direction. The runners were spotted going up the hill to the Camp and down to join the now tiring walkers. There was a near reunion at the last regroup but runners were well home before the walkers and it was off over the road to the convenient Premier Inn for very pleasant refreshment and chat. Happy Harriers all...
Receding Hareline:
6 Nov - Tony Soane - Pirbright Road - GR 923562 (Curzon Bridges)
20 Nov - Colin Crofts - Rear of Hawley Memorial Hall GR 851593 - (or GU17 9BW)
4 Dec - John Elder - Rowhill Copse Car Park - GR 849500
18 Dec - Colin Crofts - Bat & Ball Pub - GR 833444 - (or GU10 4SA
NOTES ON RUN (556) ON 9 OCTOBER 2019
FROM KING'S RIDE, CAMBERLY (GR 835570)
Hare: Anne Holland (Cloggs)
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Diane Barnes (DontwanTaname), Steve Bridges (Hobble), Richard Briton (Sex Slave), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Roland Cox (Fairy Snow), Simon Judd (3/4d), and Brian Langford (Cyclone),
Today's Hash was truly blessed. There was some bucketing rainfall just before the gathering at King's Ride but as we gathered the sun came our and most of the way around the trail was sunny but a bit windy on occasions. It was a surprising turnout with 18 Hashers setting off, obeying the instruction to go through the gate and round to the right. So far, so good. The front runners had a bit of bother trying to go further but soon that was sorted and the party set off with a vengeance. We had been warned that the trail was over four miles and that is longer than most Deepcut trails but there was a willingness to follow the flour. A friendly hare looked after the slower 'runners' and managed to keep us well together. Occasionally the dulcet tones of YP complaining about something or other as he either followed the wrong track or couldn't find any flour echoed around. The encouragement to FL as he gallantly made for the top of a particularly steep and long hill was heartening and amusing for those who knew it was the wrong way to go. Overall, it was a really good run and at least two runners found the original Wally Trap despite being pre-warned...As for the walkers, well they had been in Mr Bumbles for 45 minutes before the first runner arrived. (Long run or short walk one wonders...)
On On...
Receding Hareline:
23 Oct - Mark Westcott - TBN
6 Nov - Tony Soane - Pirbright Green - GR 946561 or GU24 0LP
20 Nov -
4 Dec - John Elder -
18 Dec -
NOTES ON RUN 555 ON 25 SEP 2019
FROM THE CROWN AND CUSHION, MINLEY - (GR 835570)
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Lesley Crofts.
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), John Elder (Seis Matters), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Chris Holmes (Headley Hound), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
While MR was locking his car, FL decided it was time to go so gave his short brief before Headley Hound was welcomed to our pack. So, Headley, belatedly welcome to our pack. Luckily, the weather stayed fair for us. In his brief, the hare admitted he had got himself lost at one point and so had no real idea of how long the trail was as we set off across the road and into the woods. Almost straight away there was concern about finding the way through the woods. Not a problem for Headley who took off with great confidence and soon had us on the way (the correct way). Soon all followed his example but it was not to last. Meanwhile Petal arrived a bit late and set off before losing confidence and turning back for home. The trail was not the easiest in parts as for a while we crossed ground upon which running was not really advised. We survived but soon ran into a large military patrol approaching us on a narrow path. They were all highly camouflaged and heavily burdened with equipment (but then they were Sappers). It was some time later that small arms firing rang out and we were, perhaps, lucky not to have run into the ambush area of the patrol. We all survived with the front runners losing the trail and going far too far than they needed while the tail enders got back first having found the trail that took us directly home.
On On...
MORE HARES, PLEASE...
Receding Hareline:
9 Oct -
23 Oct -
6 Nov - Tony Soane - Pirbright Green - GR 946561 or GU24 0LP
20 Nov -
4 Dec - John Elder - Rowhill Corpse - 849500
18 Dec -
NOTES ON RUN 554 ON 21 SEP 2019
THE FRUIT'N NUT MEMORIAL HASH
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Deepcut H3
Dave Peart (Cruella) R2D2 H3
Peter McLoughlin (Hot Legs) R2D2 H3
Hounds:
Steve Booker (Dickhead), Janie Britton (Cuddles), Richard Britton (Sex Slave), Sarah Britton (Littel Rabbit), Deise Catlin ((Flying Doctor), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Roland Cox (Fairy Snow), Sanyu Cox (Fuggles), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Tim Dodd (Hanging About), Kim Dyos (Little Prick), Charles Earle (Iskneesisbuggered), Lucy Earle (Chastity Belt), Marijana Graham, Oliver Graham (Piglet), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Chris Holmes (Headley Hound), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Nagle (Silvier Fox), Kevin Raine (Non Stick), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), James Roberts (No Entry), Toby Roberts (Fun Size), Jan Rossiter (Scribette), Peter Rossiter (Jiffy), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril).
The Fruit & Nut Memorial Run at Dummer was a huge success. There were something in the region of 80 Hashers from round and about who turned up. The sunshine was enjoyed by all as was the lovely beer and the Fish and Chips. There were three trails, Long, Medium and Short with MR taking the last. There was a wonderful air of camaraderie and much laughter as tales of F&N were told... The collection for the Alzheimer's Society totalled £300 so thanks and well done to all who helped.
NOTES ON RUN 553 ON 11 SEP 2019
FROM BACK OF THE TWESELDOWN PUB - (GR 820519)
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie).
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Ian Angell (Hippo), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Simon Judd (3/4d), Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Marijana Graham.
Despite the weather forecast, the rain did not really materialise but it was overcast. Marijana was welcomed to her first Deepcut Hash before a short brief on the upcoming event when a warning of rough ground was given out. And rough it was but most made it through unscathed. So the pack set off down the road side of the club house towards the gap in the fence on the far side. Some some bewildering reason the first three runners did not go through the gap but turned left along the edge of the sports field. Led by Eeyore and YP. Meanwhile, back by the gap, three more adventurers set off over the road led by a keen R oT while the slower, more idle others wandered up the road to the path that led into the woods. By this time, YP was back at the front and he soon went wrong again leaving the rest to follow the trail into the woods ( the roughest bit of the trail). Soon, Hippo noticed that Prime8 and Marijana were no longer with us. Prime8 failed to spot the indicator to the right and he wandered off left not to be seen until well after everyone else was back in the pub. However, the main body continued to follow the trail that kept them busy guessing which way to go with a number of cunning distractors. But the trail was varied with hills and lakes and varied track surfaces some of which were not very friendly to feet. Towards the end 3/4d observed that thus far he had followed every false trail and, just to illustrate the point, he took the next turn incorrectly, too. All, less the errant pair, got back safely. The hares set out to find what had happened to our missing two. Fortunately, they were found not far off having been far off ...
Receding Hareline:
25 Sep 19 - Colin Crofts - Crown & Cushion, Hawley - (GR 835570)
MORE HARES, PLEASE...
NOTES ON RUN 552 ON 28 AUGUST 2019
FROM PUTTENHAM MIDDLE CAR PARK (GR 912458)
Hare: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril),
Hounds: John Elder (Seis Matters), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Ian Angell (Hippo), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Mel Inkster (Lady Chatterly), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Simon Judd (3/4d), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
It was good weather at the start and a turnout befitting - fifteen of us (only one less than for our last Christmas hash bash). Lady Chatterley was welcomed to her first venture with us and a short brief from the hare who had just laid his first solo trail. And what a great trail it turned out to be; interesting, pictorially pretty, varied and beautifully laid even if he did run out of wood chips and continued with flour. So, thanks, YP for a really good trail but then you had a good mentor and modesty prevents me from naming him. Oh yes, he also set a ridiculously high standard of trail laying for walkers. Not only did their trail get marked all the way round but a sheaf of printed instructions kept them well in order. They received info that the length of the walk was 1·863 miles, ascents 124 feet and descents 131 feet accompanied by a pictorial profile. The trail map was accompanied by photos of the location of the beer box for there was a beer stop just 300 yards from the start (the suggestion that the trail should be run the other way round was rejected by the hare). Anyway, enough of praise for the hare. The trail set off with Yorkie all too frequently double guessing and getting it wrong but then it did save the rest of us having to do too much checking. Seis did his usual front running off all over the place. Uphill and down, as ever, we went with a couple of regroups and a herding hare to keep us all together-ish. Views from the top were admired as the weather began to cloud over. By the time we were at the beer it had started to rain and Eeyore unfortunately cut his hand while opening the beer bottle. The rain didn't come to much as we set off for the more distant Princess Royal pub which seemed to be the only one open anywhere near...
On On...
Receding Hareline:
11 Sep 19 - Richard McAllister - Back of The Tweseldown Pub - (GR 820519)
25 Sep 19 - Colin Crofts - Crown & Cushion, Hawley - (GR 835570)
NOTES ON RUN 551 ON 14 AUGUST 2019
FROM SELBORNE ARMS CAR PARK (GR 742335 )
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters)
Hounds: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Oliver Graham (NNY), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Richard Corser (Big Moany).
It was raining. Lots. What happened with the pack on the run is not known by your scribe who was much delayed by the roadworks around Farnham. By the time he arrived with Eeore and Oliver the pack had departed on the dot of three* leaving Hippo and YP as walkers. So, the latees joined the walkers until Eeyore and Oliver took off at a run. The walkers proceeded at a good pace, up the slope toward the Zig Zag only to turn off to the right and along the edge of the fields. Hadn't gone far when the brace of Grahams ran up behind us. We crossed the fence into the field and looked back to see another figure approaching at a run. Turned out to be Moany who had run with us before but missed the start because he misread his watch. By now just Hippo, YP and MR were discussing their immediate future. Hippo decided the pub was more attractive than proceeding further up the hill so that left just MR and YP. Then we two were confronted by a limping Oliver and dad coming back down towards us. The upshot of this was that we would stay together and walk the rest of the trail if we could find it. And find it we did. There was a persistent precipitation as we proceeded and despite the damp, it was a thoroughly enjoyable trip through the jungles of Selborne Hanger. By the time we got back most of the rest were on their way home but the remainers enjoyed their well earned drinks and presume the early birds enjoyed theirs...
An alternative version ...
A turnout of seven, I felt, was quite good for a rainy Selborne especially since Petal, who hates the Hanger had joined us. The trail had been designed with MR in mind as the least possible incline to summit Selborne Common. We started at five minutes past three* and since we only had one non-injured FRB, Yorkie, he dutifully checked out trails that blatantly were wrong just so everybody else could catch up. At the first regroup as Petal staggered in she said "I can't speak" to which Every Ready raised his arms and shouted "Hallelujah - it's a miracle!" At one point in the jungle, as the rain fell and an ethereal mist descended, those of us who had hashed in SE Asia felt pangs of loss (apart the leeches); it was a magical moment. Strangely, at the summit, our number increased by one as Big Moany turned up. This was compensated by the departure of Petal who, having fallen over, now REALLY, REALLY hates Selborne (except the Selborne Arms). From the third regroup, the obvious trail home was somehow mis-read by Ever Ready who got wandered for a while but at least turned up back at the Arms, unlike Petal, YP, MR, Eeyore and son of Eeyore. Nobody expressed the slightest concern apart from the hare who felt somehow responsible. It turned out that Petal was not lost, she was demurely changing in her car and the other four were ambling along the runners' trail. So, all in all, eleven turned up which is a very good show and the Selborne Arms treated as well as always.
On On...
Receding Hareline:
28 Aug 19 - Mark Westcott - Puttenham Middle Car Park - (GR 912458)
11 Sep 19 - Richard McAllister - Back of The Tweseldown Pub - (GR 820519)
NOTES ON RUN 550 ON 31 JULY 2019
FROM CAR PARK YATELEY CEMETERY (GR 824600 )
Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Leslie Crofts.
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Anne Holland(Cloggs), Stephen Graham (Eeyore), Oliver Graham (NNY), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
Problem - the hares found the Wyndhams Pool car park was closed. Response - use the car park for the cemetery just down the road a bit further. The weather was beautiful as we welcomed our new Hashers (father and son) who both set off at high speed. It was good to see Easy Rider back in the pack (well on the edge of the pack) with his walking stick. We suspected that the trail would prove to be a bit tricky and in parts it was just that. It was well laid and we'd been warned there were many checks and several re-groups. We soon found ourselves crossing the 'closed' car park and off into the outback. "It's a bit long" was another warning and that proved to be correct as well. And as for 'tricky' the considered opinions that "it must be over there" or "this way must be right" were proved wrong time and again with 358 degree turns not uncommon. By the time the pack was back at the cars, the walkers had long gone but we knew where to find them. It was at The Cricketers that Hippo asked if any of us had dropped cash while out on the move. It turned out that he had found a £10 note and a little further on a £20 note. None claimed it so the chip fund was made flush for a change. It had been another very good trail...
On On...
Receding Hareline:
14 Aug 19 - John Elder - Selborne Arms - (GR 742335)
28 Aug 19 - Mark Westcott - Puttenham Top Car Park - (GR 919462)
11 Sep 19 - Richard McAllister - Sandy Lane , Church Crookham (GR 818516)
NOTES ON RUN 549 ON 17 JULY 2019
FROM CAR PARK OFF MAULTWAY (GR 900617)
Hare: Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Anne Holland(Cloggs), Simon Judd (3/4d) and Graham Reynolds (Punani).
We started by welcoming two 'new' members of our pack (3/4d and Punani), both experienced Hashers but who had not heard of our Hash pack. That has now been corrected. We waited a bit because of a reported road block that may have delayed Seis coming from Selborne but came he not. So we set off through the main gate and further off to the right with YP to the fore. Soon it became apparent that we were making for the bridge over which we went and then off into the jungle to the first regroup. It was not long before we were off again stumbling through the undergrowth and on along well defined paths. The pack was keeping relatively well together at this stage until we met the second regroup after which the faster FRBs got going until they went wrong and left MR to follow the hare who was thought to be going along the correct trail. As it happened, this left a very reluctant leader who was, thankfully, quickly caught up and overtaken. All too soon we were at "the tunnel" through which we knew we had to go. Instead of just going up the road to the finish, the trail now went off back into the woods once more and after a little bit of undulating we were confronted with a real barsteward of a very steep upward gradient. We survived, some better than others. At the Pine Ridge club house the hare very generously bought a plentiful supply of chips for hungry hounds. The excellent feast was awarded 9.5 on the chip scale that hadn't been updated for nearly five years!
On On...
PS. Non mea culpa Sony gallantly admitted that the wrong grid reference for this run was HIS fault...
Receding Hareline:
31 Jul 19 - Colin Crofts - Wyndham's Pool, Yateley (Opposite The Cricketers) (GR 820598)
14 Aug 19 - John Elder - Selborne Arms - (GR 742335)
NOTES ON RUN 548 ON 3 JULY 2019
FROM POTTERS RESTAURANT (GR 894549)
Hares: Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Ian Angell (Hippo), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Andr Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and Zoë Wright (Kanchhi).
The weather was perfect for Hashing and the hares somewhat weary (they said). We set off left across the road, over the canal and up to the swing bridge that took the trail back into the campsite. We progressed slowly in the shade of the trees until forced out into the the open area and bright sunshine. The hares had promised that we would be in the shade and for much of the time that was true for soon we were back in the shady trees and over the collapsed fence and freedom. We continued on the "wrong side" of the canal, over a repaired bridge of tree branches until we plunged back into close trees once more. Progress was slow as we searched for peripherally positioned flour (or even sawdust) over a wide area (but in the shade). So we progressed the to bottom of the steep hill below the parking spot on Old Guildford Road. It was Yorkie who decided it was up in the world and he got a great cheer as he called down "BAR". Meanwhile, the idlers at the bottom had found more forest running and we set off on the great ascent that just seemed to go on for ever. We did make it to the top eventually where the views were admired before setting off down the open slope ahead only to rise up left back into shade once more. Now YP had seen "the gulch" from a distance and decided he always wanted to use it - so use it he did and very steep it still is. Once down the near sheer slope it was a gentle trot home to Potters where the beer and company were tip top. It had been a well thought out trail and enjoyed by all. It was believed the YP's apprenticeship was over and he is qualified to lead off on his own (with an assistant if needed). It was in discussion after the run that Tony Case came up in conversation. On return home Mountain Rescue's phone line was repaired and emails available once more. Sadly, it held the news that Tony Case had died in a nursing home the previous Friday. RIP Tony. More about it later...
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
17 Jul 19 - Tony Soane - Car Park off Maultway (GR 917619)
31 Jul 19 - Colin Crofts - Wyndham's Pool, Yateley (Opposite The Cricketers) (GR 820598)
NOTES ON RUN 547 ON 19 JUNE 2019
FROM BOURNE RECREATION GROUND (GR 848446)
Hare: Brian Langford (Cyclone)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), John Elder (Seis Matters) and Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue)
The weather forecast was not very promising and nor was the weather - it bucketted with rain at 2.45 but by 3.00 it had stopped and a little later the sun actually shone. There were just eight of us: three walkers, four runners and a hare. The trail led us off along the black-topped road to the south with Seis well to the fore and taking the wrong turn into the woods. Meanwhile RoT was in the lead and found the correct track into jungle. Then we met the first hill and up we flogged. There was much pleasant running once at the top but by now we had lost Seis. No amount of shouting created any reaction so we had to continue onwards without him. And yes, Seis, we were concerned but there was not much we could do to help at this stage. The general rise upwards finally took us to a magnificent view of the close and far distant countyside before beginning our descent. By now, YP had given up going the wrong way and all too frequently amazed himself by going the right way. It was he, too, who first spotted the errant Seis who had been on a wonderful run on his own for a while. Back in the pack it was not long before he was off on his own again but managed to finish together. There were some tricky bits to the trail and the hare managed to confuse himself as the front runners kept on their own trails but overall we did follow well and had enjoyed a really good trail. Only three of us finished up at the On On. Presumably the walkers had had their fill before we got back...
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
03 Jul 19 - Jane Cox - Potters Restaurant (GR 894549)
17 Jul 19 - Tony Soane - Car Park off Maultway (GR 917619)
31 Jul 19 - Colin Crofts - Wyndham's Pool, Yateley (Opposite The Cricketers) (GR 820598)
NOTES ON RUN 546 ON 05 JUNE 2019
FROM QUETTA PARK MEDICAL CENTRE (GR 817511)
Hare: Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Ian Angell (Hippo), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Colin Crofts (French Leave, Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink) and Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant)
NO REPORT as none of the anticipated stand-in Hash Trashers were on the run...
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
19 Jun 19 - Brian Langford - Bourne Recreation Ground (GR 848446)
03 Jul 19 - Jane Cox - Potters Restaurant (GR 894549)
17 Jul 19 - Tony Soane - TBN
31 Jul 19 -.Colin Crofts - Wyndham's Pool, Yateley (Opposite The Cricketers) (GR 820598)
NOTES ON RUN 545 ON 22 MAY 2019
FROM POTTERS RESTAURANT (GR 894549)
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril),
Hounds: Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Brian Langford (Cyclone), John Elder (Seis Matters), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Alan Jewell Easy Rider) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready)
It was a slow but sunny start with Seis getting us going as he shot off over the road and up the hill in the wrong direction. This rather set the tone of his hashing for he repeated the error on a number of occasions but then it did save the rest from going off up so many slopes and kept him fitter. The trail several times turned back almost on itself and that added to an element of confusion. The hounds had been warned to be careful and look out for peripheral markers. The pack was split far and wide. While laying the trail, YP did much of the false trail laying while MR got on with laying the main trail so, YP was somewhat peeved when no one checked one or two of the uphill false trails that had been strenuously laid. The trail had been laid in the knowledge that most runners knew the area and so would second guess where to go but they frequently got it wrong which kept the hares happy and the hounds busy. After four miles (more for some) the trail wended its way back along the canal and into Potters where YP had produced a very tasty birthday cake and MR bought the beers in celebration of his 80 years. Sadly, chips were not available at that time of day so we had to make do with crisps...
80 years ago today (23rd May), Richard 'Mountain Rescue' McAllister entered the world. 50 years ago this month, he brought hashing from SE Asia into Britain with the first hash at Langmoor in May 1969. As always, Richard (and Mark) laid an excellent hash trail today. Congratulations Mountain Rescue.
Receding Hareline: 05 Jun 19 - Steve Wheeler - Quetta park (GR 817511). 19 Jun 19 - Brian Langford - Bourne Recreation Ground (GR 848446) 03 Jul 19 - Jane Cox - TBN 17 Jul 19 - Tony Soane - TBN 31 Jul 19 -.Colin Crofts - Yateley Common
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NOTES ON RUN 544 ON 08 MAY 2019
FROM BAT AND BALL (GR 833444)
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Lesley Crofts
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Ian Angell (Hippo), Dianne Barns (DonTwananame), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
Merciful Heavens!! Yellow Peril arrived into the car park at great speed on two wheels. And, no, he was not driving too fast in his motor but on a red bicycle. Seems that colour could affect his name for he could also be called Red Peril – however, we'll stick with the yellow for now. At least the hounds didn't get wet. Great good fortune was shed upon us as sunshine arrived which is more than can said of the hares who had to shelter from hail at one stage of their laying. During the briefing FL admitted that he'd laid a trail too long so forbade us to go over the bridge and go up the hill or turn left. So we didn't and off to the right we went after winning the vote on the shorter trail. It was pleasant running alongside the stream – a bit dark in the shade and wet underfoot but pleasantly level. It didn't last and soon we found the hills. Big ones and steep they were both up and down. No sooner at the top and we were quickly downhill again only for many further repetitions. To quote Caboose “They're fun.” Well, I can think of things that are more fun. There were some tricky bits and loops but the trail kept the pack together well. Puffing profusely, everyone seemed to be enjoying the sunshine and exercise and we finished as we started with lovely level riverside running. For a trail in a built-up area it was well laid and remarkably green and pleasant. The pub was as pleasant as ever and the beer good as was the company who very quickly filled the gaps in the Receding Hareline for hares...
Receding Hareline:
22 May 19 - Richard McAllister - Potters Restaurant (GR 894549)
05 Jun 19 - Steve Wheeler - Quetta park (GR 817511).
19 Jun 19 - Brian Langford - Bourne Recreation Ground (GR 848446)
03 Jul 19 - Jane Cox - TBN
17 Jul 19 - Tony Soane - TBN
31 Jul 19 -.Colin Crofts - Yateley Common
NOTES ON RUN 543 ON 24 APRIL 2019
FROM WELLINGTON STATUE CAR PARK (GR 853511)
Hares: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Hounds: Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Colin Crofts(French Leave), Ian Angell (Hippo), John Elder (Seis Matters) and later (much later at the On Inn) Alan Jewell (Easy Rider).
It tried to rain and for the hares it threatened to be a damp start. It was a short-lived shower which was soon forgotten. Unfortunately, it was swiftly followed by very cool winds. The hounds set off up the usual slope towards The Duke. Only to find they were wrong and should have been on a lower slope. The hares were quite chuffed that the front runners were having a bit of a problem following the correct trail which made the laying of false trails quite rewarding for the hares. The first real problem came when there was considerable consternation as to the way ahead. Unfortunately, some vindictive van driver had parked his van over a vital check and that had the pack flummoxed until the hares appeared and gave them salvation. It seemed the hounds led by Yorkie and Seis were keen to cover a lot of ground while hunting for the trail which was quite clearly laid if they would just look in the right areas. Eventually they caught on and found their way through the trees back to the only open entrance to the training area. It was then off along that wretched fence to the Bourley Road that was crossed and into the southern part of the area. Through the trees and into the more undulating had Seis and Yorkie once again running all over the place. Then the pack reached the point where the trail led down a close gorse track that was just false so they had to get back through the same gorse (hares thought it funny, anyway). Then it was up into the higher undulations and followed back through the overgrown gardens of the Royal Pavilion, across the road again and over the open field to the car park. Sadly, the most of the pack were unable to join the (small) group in The Tweseldown where YP and ST found their beers were most obviously off as the vinegary pints were swiftly rejected. The second selection was not the best of beers and it was decided that this, too, was off... The barrel was changed and we eventually had a pleasant beer to sup.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
08 May 19 - Colin Crofts - Bat and Ball (GR 833444 or GU10 4SA)
22 May 19
05 Jun 19 - Steve Wheeler (we hope)
19 Jun 19
More hares, please !
NOTES ON RUN 542 ON 10 APRIL 2019
FROM KING'S RIDE, CAMBERLEY (GR 875621)
Hare: Anne Holland (Cloggs)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), ) Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Ricky Davis (NNY), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Sarah Nagle (Petal) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
There was some serious consternation as the hounds gathered. Cloggs' car had an open window but there was no sign of Cloggs. Past three o'clock on a bright and sunny afternoon and she was nowhere to be seen. However, just five minutes late (as she frequently is even if she is only a hound) she appeared and made sure we set off in the correct direction. So it was Dinky who was first off down the slope into the training area and off to the left through the trees. It wasn't long before Yorkie was calling us on and the YP started his good Hash and was quite often seen right up at the front of the pack and on trail. Ricky came across MR who had taken a shortcut to a check and had actually gone on looking for the trail up the slope after our two walking choristers went off, each on a separate path, to help with the hunt. Stupidly, MR was on the upper raised side of the main straight track instead of being on the actual track. Had he been so he would have seen the trail marker on the other side of a tree and it was Yorkie spotted it and was off again with all in tow. The pack was obviously enjoying the delightful Spring countryside as the trail meandered mainly up with some downhill between the mainly ups. This gradual gaining of altitude resulted in us being on top of the ridge from which we could enjoy the splendour of the local (and distant) countryside. The trail home was, not surprisingly, mostly downhill. It had been a brilliant trail (physically) and brilliant (mentally).
And so it was on to Mr Bumbles for beer...
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
24 Apr 19 - Richard McAllister - Wellington Statue Car Park (GR 853511)
08 May 19 - Colin Crofts - Bat and Ball (GR 833444 or GU10 4SA)
More hares, please
NOTES ON RUN 541 ON WEDNESDAY 27 MARCH 2019
FROM CAR PARK AT REAR OF TWESELDOWN INN (GR 820519)
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Ian Angel (Hippo), Dianne Barnes (DonTwananame), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Leslie Crofts (NNY), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie)
The weather could not have been better and nor could the trail. Both were marvellous and much enjoyed by all. We set off from the car park across the football field and up the road to the first roundabout where Yorkie made his first mistake by plunging into the jungle while the rest of us set off over the road in the opposite direction. He was soon back on track which brought YP back from his searches. We soon left the hard surfaces for the softer but root-strewn paths of the woods. The hare was very kind to MR and didn't let him wander off too far but this did have its downside because all too often he wandered too far and was called to heel only to find himself once more where he really belonged – at the back of the pack. The sun shone and we made our way through parts of the military housing and almost into the new civil 'village'. But we were led into more open countryside and then came to the hills about which we had been warned. And, yes, it really started with that dreadfully steepest uphill bit in the area. However, the hare invited any who wanted to avoid hills could take the shorter route going down. No one took up the offer and all trudged to the top only to get back into the woods once more and all the way to the trig point and beyond. Then there was considerable downhill leading to a more horizontal path. Then on down once more to a well-known junction only to have to go up a well-known slope that eventually led down all the way back to the football field where Yorkie, well ahead of the pack (but behind the short-cutting MR) rapidly overtook the flagging MR.
(My thanks to those who had noticed MR was missing near the end and waited, in vain, for him to catch up when he was already on his short-cut home).
Receding Hareline:
10 Apr 19 - Anne Holland - King's Ride, Camberley (GR 875621)
24 Apr 19 - Richard McAllister - Wellington Statue Car Park (GR 853511)
08 May 19 - Colin Crofts - Bat and Ball (GR 833444 or GU10 4SA)
NOTES ON RUN 540 ON WEDNESDAY 13 MARCH 2019
FROM BRAMSHILL PLANTATION CAR PARK (GR 760613)
Hare: Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Brian Langford (Cyclone)
It was cool, tried to rain and failed but there was a high wind. We left the car park and crossed the road with YP to the fore and heading off in the wrong direction. Meanwhile Cloggs set off on the correct road and soon we were jogging along a path widely littered with dog droppings all over the place. Not a good start but it was the beginnings of what turned out to be a really good trail. Once YP got back to the front he set off in the wrong direction again and this seemed to set the form of his Hash for the day (actually there was one stretch where he was correct and well ahead but this was followed by the inevitable). It was an interesting trail in and out of trees with the odd longish straight bit but we all looked forward to the promised interest points en route. A goodly number of ponds around and a bit of open ground where the foresters had made running well nigh impossible because of all the stumpy bits they'd left. After the recent rain we were not surprised by the amount of shig in parts. Towards the end we came to the church and traversed the resting place of many. We got to the farm where we were promised the sight of a flock/herd/ collection/family of Alpacas ( or were they Lamas?). Didn't really matter as they'd all gone by the time we got there. However, the expected geese were there full of life and noisome to say the least..and there were ducks as well. Finally we were well on the way home with an exceptional happening – MR was the first back and he didn't take any (well, not many) short cuts (Cloggs should have been home first but she lost the trail when she got too far ahead of the pack but managed to catch up before finishing.) The White Hart revived us.
Receding Hareline:
27 Mar 19 - John Elder - Car Park at rear of Tweseldown Inn (GR 820519)
10 Apr 19 - Anne Holland - King's Ride, Camberley (GR 875621)
24 Apr 19 - Richard McAllister - Wellington Statue Car Park (GR 853511)
NOTES ON RUN 539ON WEDNESDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2019
FROM SIX BELLS CAR PARK (GR 850478)
Hare: Libby Ralph (Old Thumper)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), John Elder (Seis Matters), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie).
It was truly a wonderful sunny summer day in February as the pack formed in the Six Bells' car park. The hare told us points of interest like the markings were in chalk with half arrowheads on the hard surfaces and sawdust once out into the countryside. The trail leader went so wrong, so often that had we still celebrated such behaviour with down downs he would have been well under the weather but YP kept on going. His trouble had been not seeing the trail, he said. At one point he even asked what the yellow lines on the pavement indicated and was quickly told that it was just sunlight shining under the occasional gaps in the fencing. We soon found the way through the smaller streets of Farnham up and into Farnham Park where a truly fascinating trail had been laid. It took us into woodland and twisted and turned through most interesting countryside. It was not just YP who got on the wrong track and Yorkie frequently ran off for great distances before regaining the presence of the pack . If it wasn't Yorkie it was SM who took off. But then there were others who got it wrong. MR followed Easy Rider who followed Cloggs. The hare had told us that there was one river-crossing but for this trio she meant there was one-river crossings and eight times we had to cross that winding ditch of running water. All too soon we met up with the three walkers who were already well ensconced and we all had a pleasant sup in the Pub's garden. It had been a really good run around...
OnOn and On
13 Mar 19 – Tony Soane - Bramshill Plantation Car Park (GR 760613)
27 Mar 19 – John Elder - Car Park at rear of Tweseldown Inn (GR 820519)
10 Apr 19 – Richard McAllister - Wellington Statue Car Park (GR 853511)
NOTES ON RUN 538 ON WEDNESDAY 13 FEBRUARY 2019
FROM PRINCES ROYAL CAR PARK (GR 865475)
Hares: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider),
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), John Elder (Seis Matters), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Brian Langford (Cyclone) and Libby Ralph (Old Thumper).
NOT the Dirty Dozen but a fine turnout on a most pleasant afternoon for the time of year. The hare hoped he had laid a trail with no mistakes this time. We quickly crossed the road and set off along the now familiar pathway. When we got to the point where we went wrong last time we found unmistakably obvious markings to make sure we got it right this time. It was shortly after this that MR asked the nearby hare how many regroups there were. “Damn, I forgot about those,” said he. And so we progressed at higher intensity and not with great speed. But it was a good trail which included some very sticky shiggy. The hare managed to lay a belated regroup for the lot at the back and that was the last time the whole pack was seen together. The trail looped around and we ended up returning along the “out” straight path back to the pub for a pint.
OnOn
More Hares for the future will be appreciated
27 Feb 19 - Libby Ralph - Six Bells, 55 Hale Road, Farnham (GR850478 or GU9 9QZ )
13 Mar 19 – Tony Soane - Bramshill Plantation Car Park (GR 760613)
27 Mar 19 - ?
10 Apr 19 -
NOTES ON RUN 537 ON WEDNESDAY 30 JANUARY 2019
FROM BOURLEY ROAD, CAESAR'S CAMP CAR PARK (GR 844509)
Hares: Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit) and Colin Crofts (French Leave) just to make sure she didn't over-do it.
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Derrick Gray (Prime 8), Les Salmon (Ever Ready) John Elder (Seis Matters), Lewis Soane (Even Number), Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie).
It was a good turn out for Rs Over Tit's first ever trail laying attempt – and what a brilliant start she made by laying a fantastic trail in bright (but cool) sunshine. On arrival at the car park she was concerned by the number of cars already parked there but also by being confronted by snow and ice, (and mud as usual). How was she going to lay white flour on snow? She soon found out and as the melt took a grip so life got easier. The trail even started with a comedic turn from YP who tripped over a minute twig in his way. Soon the pack was spread out and picked up the trail that led off through trees rather than along a rather straight boring track. We were later deposited back on the 'boring' track just for a bit before the pack was once more getting confused. The trail continued over territory familiar to many but each time we felt we should be going one way, we all had to go off in another direction. And so it continued on through interesting territory with tricky changes of direction that kept all guessing. There were sufficient fences and stiles to be overcome ...and ditches. It was one of these that a wandering MR was confronted by a deep (for him) ditch but a very kind, thoughtful and helpful Yorkie nipped over and offered his welcome hand to make sure MR wasn't self-deposited in the mush. It was then that 'helpful' calls from OT and ROT indicated that we didn't actually need to go over said ditch in the first place. The intriguing trail continued almost up to the trig point then down around the fishing lakes with fearful thoughts amongst the pack that we seemed to be heading towards the top Caesar's Camp. It was great fortune for us that this was just ROT's way of keeping us in a state of dread. But the potential fear was not fulfilled and instead we were steered home back down to the car park and on to The Tweseldown after a really good trail. We will let her lay another one...or more...
OnOn
note!!
Receding Hareline is now very short of Hares:
13 Feb 19 FL got home to find medical bookings so he can't lay after all. Volunteer urgently wanted 27 Feb 19 Libby Ralph – location TBN 13 Mar 19 -? 27 Mar 19 - ?
|
NOTES ON RUN 536 ON WEDNESDAY 16 JANUARY 2019
FROM OLD GUILDFORD ROAD (GR 901560)
Hare: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue)
Hounds: Anne Holland (Cloggs), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Derrick Gray (Prime 8) and Les Salmon(Ever Ready).
There was a certain dampness in the air as the hare set off in the gloom. 'Twas later that the rain started and increased the sog underfoot. Having laid the trail, the hare decided to just check was well with the start of the trail only to find that it wasn't! All flour had been completely removed and there was absolutely not a vestige left. So it was relayed. On the dot of three o'clock there was a sudden and unexpected disturbance in the undergrowth on the far side of the car park when Caboose appeared ready to get into his Hash kit. We wasted not a lot of time on a briefing and the trail set off along beside the road for a couple of hundred yards to the open area with so many possible ways to proceed. There were enough possibilities to disperse the pack far and wide and it was RoT who took the brave plunge across the road where she found the trail. She didn't get far before stopping to chat to an interested dog walker and the rest of the pack overtook her. Having been delayed by conversation, she picked up the trail (by now in a different direction) and the pack was off once more through undisturbed woodland. It was a pleasant jog through countryside not covered for a long time. Unfortunately, the woodsmen had by now returned to carry on removing surplus trees so the hare had to gather the pack and lead them around the danger area. By now, Hippo had been delayed by some woman and was seen until the end while Prime* and Ever Ready decided to walk at their own speed and were confident that they knew the area well enough to find their way 'home'. So, the pack continued to visit the old Tunnel Hill car park and on back over Old Guildford Road and home. When all were ready to move off it was apparent that the two choristers were not in sight, but that didn't stop most making for the Rose and Thistle. Fortunately, the errant two appeared complaining that they must have gone wrong somewhere... but then their timing could have been worse. And, oh yes, the rain kept off the pack nearly all the way round – there were just a few heavy drops that caused momentary concern and the trees kept most of that off.
There was a blackboard message in the pub stating that it was to be closed for three weeks for a significant make-over. Another old pub about to be ruined!!
OnOn
but please note
Receding Hareline:
30 Jan 19 - Jane Cox - Bourley Road, Caesar's Camp car park (GR844509)
13 Feb 19 -
27 Feb 19 - Come on Guys and Gals we need more hares for a happy 2019
13 Mar 19 -
27 Mar 19 -
NOTES ON RUN 535 ON WEDNESDAY 02 JANUARY 2019
FROM LIGHTWATER COUNTRY PARK CAR PARK (GR 917619)
Hare: Anne Holland (Cloggs)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), and Luke Ripley (Caboose)
It was sad that so few turned up for what turned out to be a superb trail. It was very well laid with lots of twists and turns over many ascents and descents and several blobs requiring peripheral vision to be spotted at all. A couple of regroups to keep the pack together worked well and short cuts for MR who was by far the slowest of the team but several times paid the penalty of becoming FRB and finding himself on the wrong path. Meanwhile, YP was keen to be at the front with ER doing what he could to to keep his path as short as possible (please also note that he more often than not took the correct path). Caboose? Well he was off all over the place trying to outpace YP without finding the true trail too often but enough to keep him in touch. The trail kept the pack on the move for most of the time. Respects were paid to Fruit&Nut at the pile of stones so associated with him but we were hugely amazed by an even much larger pile discovered further on the trail. We managed to get 'home' before dark and afterwards in The Fox during a jolly chat it emerged that the length of the trail, excluding false trails, was approximately 3·62 miles...so YP and Caboose can probably add at least a couple of miles to their running while ER and MR can take off a tad each.
OnOn
PS: Yellow Peril wishes to point out that he was at no time whingeing on the way round the trail. He is not a whinger. He does not whinge – so there!! But, please note, frequent letters to the Press don't count as whingeing...
HAPPY NEW YEAR to all
Receding Hareline:
16 Jan 19 - Richard McAllister - Old Guildford Road (GR 901560)
30 Jan 19 - Jane Cox - Bourley Road, Caesar's Camp car park (GR844509)
13 Feb 19 -
27 Feb 19 -
13 Mar 19 -
27 Mar 19 -
New Year Resolution for all our Hashers – I will volunteer to lay trails now required...
NOTES ON RUN 534 ON WEDNESDAY 19 DECEMBER 2018
FROM PRINCESS ROYAL PUB (GR 865475 or GU10 1NX)
Hare: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds: John Elder (Seis Matters), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Tim Dodd (Hanging About), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie).
Most Hash trails are laid in wobbly circles and this was no exception. Trouble is, if you run too far you're bound to come across the in-trail too soon. And this is exactly what happened on this run. By the time MR found a viewing point after a long straight run at the back of the pack, the rest of the pack could be seen well strung out in the far distance disappearing from open fields into close woodland. By the time he reached the first check, the pack had disappeared. “They should have gone left!” was the alarmed cry from the hare, also at the back. The pair made off to follow the way the rest had gone, stopped and called for all their worth “ON BACK!!” they called “ON BACK!!!”. Now, ROT said she heard the call but no one took any notice so they didn't stop. There was enough of the in trail remaining to make a bit of a run for them. The prize (if there was one ) for the shortest shortcut of the year would have gone to MR. Once back at the car park, it was found that Caboose had also joined the pack. Yorkie had disappeared we knew not where, JGG was muttering about 'deja vu' (you see, MR laid a trail on Sunday for NH4 that had a similar problem leading the pack astray – but not for long nor as far). On the bright side for the disappointed hare is that he still has a trail ready for the next time he has to lay. Meanwhile, Hippo was enjoying his first ale before the rest of the the pack turned up. There was a tremendous layout of hash in the form of two huge bowls of fresh chips, several plates of a selection of sandwiches with the accompaniment of tasty spring rolls. Coffee and tea for those who wanted it. By the time to go home, Yorkie had turned up. The pack had not been able to eat all the food and left well fed up. So, many thanks to Easy Rider for laying on the party and a good finish to the year had been well celebrated.
OnOn and:
MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR to all
New Year Resolution for all our Hashers – I will volunteer to lay trails when required
Receding Hareline:
2 Jan 19 - Anne Holland - Lightwater Country Park car park GR 917619 )
16 Jan 19 - Richard McAllister - Old Guildford Road (GR 901560)
30 Jan 19 - Jane Cox - Bourley Road, Caesar's Camp car park (GR844509)
NOTES ON RUN 533 ON WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018
FROM REAR OF TWESELDOWN PUB (GR 820519 or GU52 8DY)
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Tim Dodd ( (Hanging About) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone) .
It was disappointing that more, hardy hashers didn't turn up for this damp offering. Physically damp it was but mentally rather a challenge and it was amazing how much trail could be fitted into a small area. 'If you cross a road do be careful' was the advice. So we set over over the sports field to the far side only to have to turn back and work our way back to the roadside where we had to cross carefully to be beside the race track area. The trail certainly twisted and turned as we zig zagged back and forth through trees to open parts and back into woods. Around the edge we went until RsOT spotted the trail turning back into a different set of trees. It was here that there was some pretty rough loose undergrowth left by untidy woodsmen made running a trifle dodgy but we swiftly traversed the area. It was now obvious that HA and YP were the day's FRBs as they frequented being at the front then swiftly at the back as their fortunes changed. The rest of us in the middle were plodding along happily as the changes of direction continued. From the start, Hippo declared his intent to walk and was latterly joined by Cyclone. There came a point where the trail transferred through a kissing gate into the fenced training area inhabited by fierce looking cows but we had been forewarned that they were harmless. Now the problem at the kissing gate was that there was a deep, large, cold and exceeding wet puddle – no a pond or even a lake through which we had to proceed to keep on trail. HA didn't mind and just waded through. Others climbed the fence. It was YP who used the gate to swing over and get to the far shore leaving MR to try the same. MR was half over and struggling atop the gate as a thoughtful, caring, compassionate YP who stayed behind to help MR get his leg over. So much for increasing old age and the wrong parts stiffening. The hare took pity on MR and told him of a short cut as the rest of the pack were confronted by the cows. Despite the loud bellowing of the lead cow they were friendly enough and MR was quickly overtaken by most of the pack (hashers, that is, not cows). Well, it did rain but not a lot and that was soon forgotten in the Tweseldown...
OnOn,
Receding Hareline:
19 Dec 18 - Alan Jewell - The Princess Royal - (GR 865475 or GU10 1NX)
2 Jan 19 - Colin Crofts
16 Jan 19 - Anne Holland
30 Jan 19 - Jane Cox - Bourley Road, Caesar's Camp car park (GR844509)
NOTES ON RUN 532 ON WEDNESDAY 21 NOV 2018
FROM WELLINGTON STATUE (GR - (GR 853511 or near GU11 1QA)
Hare: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Colin Crofts (French Leave), John Elder (Seis Matters), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie) and Diane Barnes (friend of FL)
Despite a certain coolness in the air after losing earlier sunshine, the turnout was surprisingly good. The pack set off up the hill to to pay compliments to Lord Wellington and down the other side for a pleasant run through the local woods and looping back to the access road. Increased fencing had rather enforced an unwanted boring straight on the trail but there was enough jungle and open countryside outside the wire before crossing over the Bourley Road. The pack had been forewarned about the orienteering competition going on but there was no clash of runners and plenty of room for us all. On the far side of the road the trail turned almost immediately right into the trees and up and away they sped; apart, that is, from the walkers who wandered off straight up 'the concrete road'. After wending their way thorough some fairly close countryside the pack ended up at the first regroup at the top where the walkers had now met up again. Off down the far side and up a bit beyond to more wire. By now, YP was well to the front as he took off up the gentle slope and got far enough ahead before he (unfortunately) spotted that the trail dropped down and back almost the way he had just run. The rest of the pack, as one, saw the way ahead and took a short cut down the slope through the heather and scrub to join YP who was now no longer the front runner. On along good paths and almost into the wide expanse of the sandy valley where the orienteers were coming and going. Avoiding them and going up the far side to another regroup, the trail led on to a check back that gave Yorkie the chance to find the real trail once more. The trail led through a gap in the fencing of the Royal Pavilion grounds and through their trees for a change and back out further on. Down we went to go back over the road and across to the car park that finished the event - well, the active event, that is, for the meeting continued in The Tweseldown...
OnOn,
Receding Hareline:
5 Dec 18 - John Elder - Tweseldown Pub - (GR 820519 or GU52 8DY)
19 Dec 18 - Alan Jewell - The Princess Royal - (GR 865475 or GU10 1NX)
2 Jan 19 - Colin Crofts
16 Jan 19 - Anne Holland
30 Jan 19 - Jane Cox - Bourley Road, Caesar's Camp car park (GR844509)
NOTES ON RUN 531 ON WEDNESDAY 7 NOV 2018
FROM CHOBHAM PLACE WOODS - GR 965643 or (near) GU24 8TN
Hare: Steve Osborne (Wally)
Hounds: Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ray Darby (Honey Monster) and Colin Rudd (Blobby)
I actually felt rather sorry for Wally as I watched the pouring rain from home and thought thoughts about how damp Wally must have been getting. Also, although I hate having to admit this, Wally actually laid a rather good trail apart from the half mile of very close gorse and some difficult pathway to transverse. By the start, we couldn’t complain about the weather – for the pack it was very good with quite a lot of sunshine and no rain. Wally showed us the way at the start as he wanted to point out his first bit of military history – an engraved stone in memory of those who lost their lives in the Crimean Valley of Death. This loop took us out and across the road into the main Common. Now you probably won’t believe this next bit but Wally turned to me while we ran along (slowly) together and asked “How long are you going to remain FRB?” Well, it wasn’t long before Blobby shot past us both and there he remained, at the front, for most of the way round. The bridge over the motorway reminded Wally to tell us that there was also a tunnel, not a mythical one but a real tunnel, under the motorway on the way home. Yes, the gorse was uncomfortable but it was not long before our second bit of military history was the column that recorded the spot where Queen Victoria reviewed the Light Cavalry just before they set off for the Crimea. By now, Wally was getting a bit itchy about how long it was going to take us to get back and if we could before darkness descended. Views split the pack and the idle half took the short route while the others escorted Wally around the rest of the trail. Once back, it was a diminished group that gathered at the Working Man’s Club for a draught for a very welcome beer.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
21 Nov 18 - Richard McAllister - Wellington Statue - (GR 853511 or near GU11 1QA)
5 Dec 18 - John Elder -Tweseldown Pub - (GR 820519 or GU52 8DY)
19 Dec 18 - Alan Jewell - The Princess Royal - GR 865475 or GU10 1NX
2 Jan 19 - Colin Crofts
16 Jan 19 - Anne Holland subject to change
30 Jan 19 - Jane Cox
NOTES ON RUN 530 ON WEDNESDAY 24 OCTOBER 2018
FROM PINE RIDGE GOLF COURSE (GR 844494 or GU9 0JA)
WALLY WARNING
Wally (AKA Steve Osborne) is threatening to visit 30 Hashes from the southern counties up into the Midlands.
Be prepared, dear Hash Friends who read this, he is doing the rounds to improve the standards of Hashing and to carry out quality control (or somesuch). Nuff sed…
Hare: Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Steve Wheeler (Yorkie), Ray Darby (Honey Monster), Derek Gray (Prime8), Steve Osborne (Wally) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
Once again we were blessed with amazing weather for this time of the year - sunny with a cool breeze was just wonderful - as was the trail. We left the car park through the gap in the fence with the front runners confidently running off in the wrong direction. A hint to the back runners got ROT going off in the opposite direction and found herself on trail. On to the Maltway and over the road into old almost familiar countryside with the roller-coaster path along the range side and into newly tidied more formal countryside provided for the new housing being built over our Hash area. We nearly managed to lose Wally but being in his manor he was not off trail for long, once again telling everyone that there was no calling (and that was about the last we heard of him). Yorkie wasn’t trained in Wally Avoidment and on much of his front running, he kept calling and that kept Wally on the trail. Trouble was none of us could keep up with Yorkie to tell him. But there were (many) times when said Yorkie went off piste but we were still unable to communicate the strategy we were after even when he caught up with the rest. Towards the end of this great trail, there were ten minutes of glorious, quiet no Wally. His excuse for being at the back was that he was sweeping up the lost and lame. Once back at the club house there was plenty of warm sunshine as we enjoyed what may be the last of summer.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
7 Nov 18 - Steve Osborne - Jubilee Mount Car Park, Chobham Common (GR 971644 or near GU24 8TU)
The following are subject to change but it is a promising start!
21 Nov 18 - Jane Cox
5 Dec 18 - Richard McAllister
19 Dec 18 - Alan Jewell - The Princess Royal
2 Jan 19 - Colin Crofts
16 Jan 19 - Anne Holland
NOTES ON RUN 529 ON WEDNESDAY 10 OCTOBER 2018
FROM THE ALMA PUB (GR 844494 or GU9 0JA)
Hare: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Nico Barnfield (Go-Rong), John Elder (Seis Matters) and Steve Wheeler (Yorkie).
Amazing weather for this time of the year that caused the men to sweat and the women to glow. A simple brief took us off the road and up the usual path where simplicity ended. The trail led many astray but eventually all were on the move up the hill as anticipated. The great undulations continued throughout the whole course. The message in the last report about runners keeping an eye on those behind was soon ignored and your scribe was, once again, left well behind and the pack was soon out of sight and earshot (or perhaps there was just insufficient loud calling). The hare and Hippo were walking together until the latter headed back to quench his thirst that he had not yet really earned. Fortunately, this was a well-known area for MR but the trail was lost for him. Without a care he made his way in an anticipated direction and came across flour that he followed to the top of the ridge overlooking Caesars Camp. How did you get there was the challenge from the waiting hare. We could see far and wide but there was no sign nor sound of the pack. The pair moved to a different observation point and there in the far, far distance could be seen the pack well stretched out. Well, eventually they all made to the very top for the only bit of flat short-lived running, a rest and a discussion concerning the position of Reading when the rotating ‘windmill’ generator at the Junction 11 on the M4 was spotted occasionally reflecting the sunlight. Then it was down the hill where the tail enders stopped to watch a turtle sunning itself beside the pond. Then up the other side back to The Alma where the undulating of the run was celebrated in the usual way.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
24 Oct – Tony Soane - Pine Ridge Golf Course (GR 907587 or GU16 9NX)
Still more volunteer hares are essential for our existence.
Please don’t hold back or be shy…
Please offer to lay a trail…
Please try before winter…
NOTES ON RUN 528 ON WEDNESDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2018
FROM PYESTOCK SPORTS CENTRE (838540)
Hares: Derrick Gray (Primate) and Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue).
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Anne Holland (Cloggs) Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Lewis Soane (Even Numbers).
Ever Ready was supposed to be laying the trail with Primate but Les was hospitalised in Montenegro and unable to be of much use to DH3 for this run. So, Mountain Rescue stepped in to help Prime8 lay the trail. The weather was at its kindest as the pack set off through some very rough old forestry littered by HUGE tyres and strewn pallets and other obstacles. The trail led to Norris Bridge roundabout by which time YP was complaining that there was no flour. What he really meant was that there was no flour that he could see. When ‘On’ was called his response was “Where did you see that?” – an oft repeated query but there was flour to be found. There was some excitement while crossing the roads to get to the training area. At the top of the hill there was an element of delay trying to find the trail but eventually progress was made. It was then dawned on MR that there were no regroups laid. However, the devious mentality of the aging hares allowed plenty of regrouping as the pack searched for the way ahead. Eventually the pack found more familiar territory as they neared the Norris Bridge crossing again on the way to the other training area but it was now YP who was once more leading the pack. It was well on the way home that MR was making a comment that it was the first time in many weeks that he was actually running (but slowly). Sadly he became over-confident and was going too fast when his foot caught a tree root. That took him crashing to the ground doing himself no good whatsoever. However, it did illustrate the need for all runners to keep an eye on those following. In this case Cyclone and Cloggs were able to assist MR who could not actually stand up unaided and that was sad, wasn’t it? So then it was off to The Foresters (less the casualty who thought it better to get Marian to clean the wounds – and give some succour. The withering look I got was one of those “Daft old bugger!” ones. Ho hum ‘til next time…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
10 Oct - Allan Jewell - The Alma Pub (844494 or GU9 0JA)
24 Oct – Tony Soane - Pine Ridge Golf Course (GR 907587 or GU16 9NX)
More volunteer hares essential
NOTES ON RUN 527 ON WEDNESDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2018
FROM UPPER HALE SHELL GARAGE (828491)
Hares: Brian Langford (Cyclone) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Derrick Gray (Primate), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit) and Anne Holland (Cloggs).
Very long reconnaissance, very long run, very short report. It seems that Cyclone set off the other day on his recce at 10am and at 1pm rang his wife to say he was lost and would be out for another hour. He was. It turned out that the eventual run was also very long and took the pack 1½ hours to complete. There were three unfortunates who were unable to run but could hobble for half an hour and one of these was your scribe who saw and heard nothing of the pack from the start. So no update on the athletic performance apart from the eventual appearance at The Alma of some of the survivors who looked well knackered (except Cloggs, the last to arrive, who looked unperturbed by the distance she had run). For others, it was too late to join the imbibing so it was a small group that supped the beverages on offer. However your scribbler also had to leave as he’d already waited and waited and waited and his glass was empty again…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
26 Sep - Les Salmon - Pyestock Sports Centre (838540 or GU14 0LP)
10 Oct - Allan Jewell - The Alma Pub (844494 or GU9 0JA)
More volunteer hares will be appreciated
NOTES ON RUN 526 ON WEDNESDAY 29 AUGUST 2018
FROM HAWLEY MEMORIAL HALL (851593)
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Lesley Crofts
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Brian Langford, (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Derrick Gray (Primate), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
It was good weather for a Hash; not a lot of sunshine but a warm breeze to stop us overheating and no rain. Six kilometres said the male hare, seven said the female hare so settlement made it round about 6·5. As we set off, Caboose was seen approaching on foot (as he does) so Shrinky offered him the safety of his car for his bag by which time the front runners were well away. Soon there was a convenient check that delayed progress, giving the latecomer with his bag host a chance to catch up. The trail was through some very attractive well wooded countryside and plenty of tracks to choose from. Progress was good and it soon became apparent that YP was living up to his newly identified natural sixth sense when it came to selecting the correct track to take. It was about half way around the trail that MR aggravated his wound and had to join Primate making direct for the car park and the pair limped off. On the way to the On Inn, a sign indicated that the road ahead was closed. Bypassing the sign and another sign repeated the warning. Ignoring this also and on the back of a yellow sign was a scribbled message Business as usual. Encouraged, further ignoring the warning signs led down the road to Mr Bumble’s car park. The final sign was NO! It really is closed. And so it was. All but one made it to the pub without a problem. Shrinky proved the point that there was at least one disciplined member of the gathering and it was a while before he negotiated the chaotic local traffic and caught up with us. There is no more first-hand reporting this time but at Mr Bumbles during the chit chat it become known that YP actually did make a mistake on the way home that took him downhill – a long way downhill. He was somewhat aggrieved to hear the bellowing of the ‘On’ from afar up on the very crest of the ENORMOUS hill. So, thanks to Colin and Leslie for another excellent trail…forget the mutterings about ‘That was a long one…’
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
12 Sep - Brian Langford - Upper Hale Shell Garage (828491 or GU10 5AB)
26 Sep - Les Salmon - Pyestock Sports Centre (838540 or GU14 0LP)
10 Oct - Allan Jewell - The Alma Pub (844494 or GU9 0JA)
NOTES ON RUN 525 ON WEDNESDAY 15 AUGUST 2018
FROM LIGHTWATER COUNTRY PARK CP (GR 917619)
Hare: Anne Holland (Cloggs).
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angel (Hippo), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Brian Langford, (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Ray Darby (Honey Monster), Theresa Hicks (no name), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), and Steve Osborne (Wally).
Ideal Hashing weather and an excellent trail over good paths in a most pleasant area. So we set off down the slopes , into the trees with FL and EReady wandering to the fore but were quickly overtaken by MR who actually started to trot! This encouraged the rest of the pack who went off around the entrance lake that looked as though it could do with a good drink. There was a delay as a search for the trail started with Hippo finding the way to the next smaller pond where further searching resulted in a complete split up of the pack. ERider (or it may have been YP - or HM - or Cyclone - but definitely not ROT who was far too busy chatting to her friend from Spain). Soon the general flow of keen hashers continued their progress through the trees with a few undulations for further interest. Intentionally, the hare had laid lesser-used paths to make trails running less boring. Then, the great climb to High Curley where the pack rested to appreciate the great view over to London in the far distance. From hereon, it was a gentle, mainly downhill, run back to the car park with the pack going the wrong way, leaving MR at the back (as often happens) and so it was that - now note this - the first of the pack home was MR – is this a record, or what?!! The Red Lion provide increasingly expensive beers for all who desired, leaving a happy bunch quaffing and chatting and discussing the best routes avoiding the Red Road road works during the rush hour…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
29 Aug - Colin Crofts - Hawley Memorial Hall (851593 or GU18 5RG)
12 Sep - Brian Langford - Upper Hale Shell Gararge (828491 or GU10 5AB)
26 Sep - Les Salmon - Pyestock Sports Centre (838540 or GU14 0LP)
10 Oct - Allan Jewell - The Alma Pub (844494 or GU9 0JA)
NOTES ON RUN 524 ON WEDNESDAY 1 AUGUST 2018
FROM OLD GUILDFORD ROAD (GR 901560)
Hare: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue).
Hounds: Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), Ian Angel (Hippo), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Brian Langford, (Cyclone), Sarah Nagel (Petal), Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
Fantastic Hashing weather and a trail that took an hour and a quarter to complete. The start was over some of the newly created obstacles left by the destroyers of undergrowth but soon through that and the pack followed to the east where the first check awaited. There were many ways to be checked and after a while some lost interest in their failure and formed a static conversation group. It soon became apparent that all seemed to take notice of the notice on the gate ‘PRIVATE PROPERTY. Authorized only.’ So the hare gave authority knowing that the fraudulent notice was on MOD Land and Hippo led the rush into the northern side of the Old Guildford Road. Once out in the open there were a goodly number of possible tracks to follow and it was YP who led the field in the right direction off to the left. Soon, the fleeter of foot were following leaving Hippo at the back with the hare which was fortunate for him for he got the benefit of a call from the hare and they set off up the trail trying to get the pack back to follow on. They did eventually and it was YP again who got them back into line and through a new fence (yes, another new fence) and up to the top of a well-known high ridge with many trails down. More debate atop and having tipped Hippo and Petal to not follow the rest down the hill they continued along the level top while hare moved to the point where the pack should appear up the slope. It took a lot of calling to get them back but back they came with Ever Ready claiming he knew that climb as he had used it previously and knew where the hidden start was not so obvious. The trail now led off back in the general direction of heading for home through much shaded forest. From the next regroup it was YP again whose luck held as he set off on the correct trail followed by Petal who had sensibly waited for hare confirmation of the way ahead. It was fairly straightforward for the rest of the trail which was close enough and familiar to most for the lack of flour to make any difference to progress home. It seems that an expert remover(s) of flour had made a very clean job of destroying the trail, but it mattered not a jot as everyone got back for resuscitation at the Rose and Thistle in good order.
Later that evening, Seis sent an email that told a sad story. He could not join us as he had friends from Australia visiting at 3 pm. They called from London at 3.30 as they were still shopping and would not be arriving until 6.30 pm. So he could have run with us after all...
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
15 Aug – Anne Holland - Lightwater Country Park CP (GR 917619)
29 Aug
12 Sep
More Hares still needed, please
NOTES ON RUN 523 ON WEDNESDAY 18 JULY 2018
FROM SELBORNE ARMS – GR 742335 or GU34 3JR
Hare: John Elder (Seis Matters).
Hounds: Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril), and Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue).
It was a perfect afternoon for Hashing and a delightful area in which so to do. It would have been even better had there been more hounds. But we managed with an all-knowing Hare, two real runners and an old Wabbler (walking hobbler) with a smart cane to hand. Having given up waiting for an extra five minutes just in case anyone else turned up, we set off down the car park with the two runners going one way and MR another (inside information for a short cut) the two put out some pretty good shouts while MR puffed quietly on up and up and up that bl**dy hill. Once at the top it was great going from there on. The hare admitted later that he had to take secateurs with him to get us through some of the thicker parts. He became quite pleased with himself when he found YP chasing off on many of the false trails while Sony occasionally got it wrong. He was not alone at this as MR also failed to follow the shorter version precisely despite detailed hare briefings. But it was overall an excellent trail enjoyed by the whole pack (that sounds better than ‘trio’). What was even better was that we reassembled at SM’s house where Anna was cooking sausage rolls and SM dispensing two types of beer. While waiting for the sausage rolls to finish their time in the oven we were fed pork pies. Now that doesn’t happen every time but our thanks to Anna and John for their kind and generous hospitality and Yah Boo Sucks to those who didn’t join us…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
1 Aug - Richard McAllister - Old Guildford Road (probably) - (GR 901560)
15 Aug
29 Aug
12 Sep
More Hares needed please
NOTES ON RUN 522 ON WEDNESDAY 4 JULY 2018
FROM – BRAMSHILL PLANTATION CAR PARK
Hare: Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Derrick Grey (Prime 8), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril)
Very hot. Run one mile, turn right, run another mile turn right, run another mile, finish, go to White Hart Eversly.
Receding Hareline:
18 Jul - John Elder - Car Park at back of Tweseldown Pub – (GR 820519)
1 Aug - Richard McAllister - Old Guildford Road (probably) - (GR 901560)
NOTES ON RUN 521 ON WEDNESDAY 20 JUNE 2018
FROM – THE ELY HOTEL – (GR 822589)
Hare: Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Derrick Gray (Prime8),
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ian Angel (Hippo), Jane Cox, (Rs Over Tit), Luke Ripley (Caboose) and Mark Westcott (Yellow Peril).
Bummer. Big BUMMER!!! Pressed the wrong button and wiped off my first draft so here goes again.
ER was laying the trail, so he told us, when he was confronted by a young blond girl who was being a bit officious. Turned out she was a sort of Green Party influenced warden or some such - what are you doing? What sort of flour? Didn’t you know there are ground breeding birds in this area? And finally – don’t get off the official paths. He hadn’t gone very far when a second such youngster accosted him but, before she could get a word in, he said that, yes, he knew there were nesting birds and ,yes, he knew not to leave the paths and, yes, it is flour that came from Waitrose… “Are you taking the mickey?” she asked. They parted on good terms and ER survived to brief us. Before starting, a septuagenarian Hash Virgin was introduced and immediately picked up a Hash Tag by driving his yellow car at high speed into the car park almost hitting a departing car. Anyway, we set off through a convenient hole in the hedge and followed a well laid trail through some most pleasant countryside in warm sunshine with a cooling breeze. YP is perhaps a natural hasher or it was just beginner’s luck but he frequently found himself as a FRB. Sure, he sometimes went the wrong way but was never lost or left behind. It later turned out that he was recovering from Angina and so was just so happy to be able to Hash having thought that he may never be active again. Sadly, we never met either of the two ‘girls’. Everyone had a moment or two at the front whether or not they wanted it and all in all it was a very good trail much enjoyed particularly by Prime8 and Hippo who followed their own and kept seats for us at the bar (it was rumoured that they did actually leave the car park before arriving at the bar but there were no witnesses for corroboration…)
OnOn
NOTES ON RUN 520 ON WEDNESDAY 6 JUNE 2018
FROM – HARE & HOUNDS, ROWLEDGE, (GR 823433)
Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), John Elder (Seis Matters), Ian Angel (Hippo), Jane Cox, (Rs Over Tit), Derrick Gray ( Prime8), Brian Langford (Cyclone) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready)
Well, he did it again, including the wonderful sun and blue sky for the second haring in a row. The trail was wonderful as well. We had been warned that it was a long trail and there were some boring bits and a long stretches and elements of inspirational shig. He was right on all comments except one – there was no boring to be found anywhere. We crossed over the road and into a shady narrow path that led us shortly out into the open countryside. The trail certainly made the front runners busy. And he was right – there were areas into which we had not been. It was not the easiest trail to follow although very well laid – it was just, well, tricky in parts. But then we had been warned - any stretches of road running were not that long and there was always a reward at the end of more shady running. We ran (or shambled) through some really wonderful sun-dappled narrow paths and wider well surfaced woodland roads. The trail took us around to Birdworld and on to the Forest Lodge Garden Centre where we crossed back over the A325. Probably 90% of the way around was well shaded and that was much appreciated after the short spells in hot sunshine. He’s forgiven for the shig covering Mountain Rescue’s new shoes so quickly.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
20 Jun Les Salmon – The Ely Hotel – (GR 822589 or GU17 9LJ)
4 Jul Tony Soane
18 Jul John Elder
NOTES ON RUN 519 ON WEDNESDAY 23 MAY 2018
FROM
– DARBY GREEN CENTRE, YATELEY, (GR 836604)Hare: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Lesley Crofts.
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider) Anne Holland (Cloggs), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), John Elder (Seis Matters), Ian Angel (Hippo), Jane Cox, (Rs Over Tit), Derrick Gray, (Prime8), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
Well, the weather was just perfect - hot sun, cool breeze. The trail was also near perfect but with one patch of ‘unavoidable shiggy’ – at least the hare did suggest it was just better to accept the shig rather than try to avoid it. The trail was a great mixture of open fields and close woodland, some familiar, some unrecognised and mainly dry underfoot. There were several ponds on the way round and areas of much twisting footpaths. A number of cunningly laid trail traps were enough to confuse the pack and gave every hound the chance at front running (and going wrong). All in all, an excellent afternoon in the fresh air with additional pleasure at The Cricketers…
After walking around the trail at Darby Green, Primate got back to the cars complaining that his foot was uncomfortable. On removing his shoe he found he’d been sharing it with a pen…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
6 Jun In the absence of a volunteer Richard McAllister Location TBC
20 Jun Les Salmon
4 Jul Tony Soane
18 Jul John Elder
NOTES ON RUN 518 ON WEDNESDAY 9 MAY 2018
FROM – HAWLEY LAKE (GR 840579)
Hare: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds: Anne Holland (Cloggs), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ray Darby (Honey Monster), John Elder (Seis Matters), Luke Ripley (Caboose) and Sarah Nagle (Petal) and Wally (Wally)
Preface: Earlier in the day, Primate called to say that he had a doctor’s appointment but may be in time to join us on the run. So, we waited for the full five minutes in the hopes that he, and any other happy hashers turned up. But, no one else turned up. It was only at the end of the run that we found a bewildered Petal who had even missed the golden five minutes and got lost before she started…
The sun was shining very hot and bright as a super six and a bit set off. It was a conventional start out of the car park and off up the slope into the woods and around the edge of the lake where there was a pause until we found ourselves turning off in a direction on the far side not anticipated. Through the trees along well used but narrow tracks we progressed and the hare had thankfully and purposely kept us in shade as much as possible. It was ideal hashing through the sun-dappled trees with only the sound of twittering birds and puffing hashers. We had difficulty in keeping up with Seis who fortunately took the wrong track occasionally and that gave Caboose and Cloggs the chance to get to the fore. Meanwhile MR and HM managed to keep up because it was a cunningly laid trail of great excellence and the hare was at hand when really wanted. At one point towards the end, MR thought he really was the front runner but, when he arrived at a main junction, there was Seis patiently waiting for the pack to catch up. Once into this trail of guile it became a trial of intelligence and lots of good guesswork. Anyone with a bright and alert mind was able to follow this wonderful trail but the foolish (and late!) could suffer. Sadly, Petal never got the chance to start off properly and soon found a circle kicked out in the wrong direction that spoiled any hopes she had for catching up. And, oh yes, the Crown and Cushion has been modernised…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
23 May Colin Crofts - Darby Green Centre, Yateley, (GR 836604)
6 Jun VOLUNTEER PLEASE
20 Jun VOLUNTEER PLEASE
4 Jul Tony Soane
18 Jul John Elder
NOTES ON RUN 517 ON WEDNESDAY 25 APRIL 2018
FROM – KINGS RIDE, CAMBERLEY (GR 875623)
Hare: Anne Holland (Cloggs)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Ian Angell (Hippo), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Ray Darby (Honey Monster), Alex Fryatt (Lefty), Derek Gray Prime8) and Steve Osborne (Wally).
It was a really enjoyable well laid trail that improved as we progressed. At the start it was a bit cool but once we got moving and the sun shone we warmed up. At the start, we were informed that the trail went off to the left but Wally should go right; an offer he declined. With he being his normal self in an area “in his manor”, we soon got bored with his constant stream of banter and instructions on how we should perform in “his” area. And how we should use his arm signals for communication. And what Surrey did (or didn’t). And how he’d taught Cloggs how to lay a trail. Well his tedium resulted in the pack going for using his semaphore with no shouting. This started after Wally had set off checking down a steep hill while the rest of us found the trail and passed the message in silence using Wally’s signals. We were at the top of the hill while Wally continued his descent. It was a quick move that separated us as we ran down the other side of the hill with great haste, round the corner at the bottom and into the trees out of sight. The wind, too, was in our favour as the occasional forgetful hound shouted the ‘on’ that was blown away by the wind. It soon became apparent that Alex (who was not happy with his Hash Tag) kept going wrong, setting off into the far distance to check for the trail. Time after time he took the wrong path. So, he was never ever right. From hereon, his is known as Lefty. It was a long trail by Deepcut standards but took us through the most pleasant countryside. At one stage we were disturbed by a fusillade from the next hill top, followed by sporadic firing. Had Wally mistakenly wandered into their battlefield? Was this the military trying to shoot Wally? Well, after Lefty had taken his last two erroneous wanderings we arrived back at the start to find no Wally. When he did eventually turn up he wouldn’t admit that he had gone wrong and got lost but then one wouldn’t expect Wally ever to admit an error! It is also doubtful that he now realises that the use of visual signals is not really very sensible, particularly in close country.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
9 May Alan Jewell – Hawley Lake (GR 840579)
23 May Colin Crofts - Darby Green Centre, Yateley, (GR 836604)
6 Jun VOLUNTEER PLEASE
20 Jun VOLUNTEER PLEASE
NOTES ON RUN 516 ON WEDNESDAY 11 APRIL 2018
FROM – POTTERS RESTAURANT (GR 894549 or GU16 6DD)
Hare: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue),
Hounds: Brian Langford (Cyclone), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Ian Angell (Hippo), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Jane Cox (Rs Over T), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Sarah Nagle (Petal) and Libby Ralph (Old Thumper).
Scenes of great devastation. Official vandalism at its worst. The thinning of the trees had left huge quantities of tree debris over much of the area. It looked as though walkers (and Hashers) had been particularly pinpointed for very many of the pedestrian tracks had been blocked by piled debris. Most of the main tracks had survived, but much damage has formed huge tyre water filled ditches, and huge amounts of mud. However, the pack was not deterred as they set off over the road from Potters Restaurant car park and pointed in the direction of the Canal Centre. It was Thumper who led the flock as she found the way down the side of the camping ground and through the gate into the woods. The hare was well pleased to see the pack spread mainly in the wrong direction but Shrinky had set off down the track, back towards the start. If he hadn’t been running so quickly, he could have spotted the remains of the flour leading up into the trees where Hippo had spotted the trail. Soon, the whole lot were off with, once again Thumper taking the lead which she quickly lost when Sony spotted the trail continuing up a well-known hill right to the top where the first of four regroups awaited the slower movers. From here Hippo and Cyclone decided that the pack should not wait for them at the next regroups so off went the main pack. There was now a necessarily long stretch, across a flood to the check after which Thumper led us to the one and only check-back where Sony found the trail leading once more into, now not so close, woodland. The trail passed through a huge depression in the ground that only Sony accepted the challenge of running down to the bottom and up the other side while ROT reminded us all of her Hash Tag when she decided not to follow (as did no others!). After Thumper led the pack once more downhill and back up through an old (largely still intact) trail and continued over some rough, hilly and potentially dangerous debris to a clearer major junction where Petal took the lead until the short cutters approached from their wanderings as we turned along the backs of married quarters and down the slope to Potters for well-deserved refreshment.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
25 Apr Anne Holland – King’s Ride, Camberley (GR 875623)
9 May VOLUNTEERS PLEASE
23 May Colin Crofts - Darby Green Centre, Yateley, (GR 836604)
6 Jun VOLUNTEERS PLEASE
20 Jun VOLUNTEERS PLEASE
NOTES ON RUN 515 ON WEDNESDAY 28 MARCH 2018
FROM
– SHELL GARAGE ON THE A287 (GR 828491 or GU10 5AB)Hares: Brian Langford (Cyclone) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ian Angell (Hippo), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Alex Fryatt (Toby (or Not To Be)), Charlie Fryatt (NNY) and Anne Holland (Cloggs).
Two drowned rats – that’s what the hares looked like as we arrived at the most difficult of car parks. All the time they laid the trail it had poured with rain but, for the virtuous, the weather turned and we enjoyed a truly warm, sunny run around. It was Toby who led the field, closely followed by Charlie with ER being adventurous as we progressed in the general direction of Tweseldown. We had been warned that there was a lot of water and mud and things could be quite slippery. It wasn’t long before we were in to open country side with Cloggs now to the fore. There we could admire the real beauty of a vast sea of bright yellow new gorse. Moving on, using local knowledge, MR got over the stile and into the edge of the woods and was soon on the trail that took us to a regroup besides a WW1 prefab concrete bunker. From here the trail led downwards where the first real slippy stuff was discovered. Hippo and Ever Ready, our walking wounded, decided they were not going downhill which was a wise move. Along narrow, muddy edges of the drainage ditches, hopping over them, trying not to slip, was not the easiest of pastimes. Toby set off uphill (steeply uphill, to find he was on the wrong track. Meanwhile, Charlie was off along the gently rising path calling on the pack who soon found that they, too, had to go further up steeper rises. Meanwhile, MR took the low road (it wasn’t a short cut – just an easier path to follow) and waited for the team to descend to join him. Once at the final bottom we were at the fishing lake side. Around we went only to find the trail took us upwards once more. Then up further until we reached the highest point beside Caesar’s Camp. From there it was ‘level running’ all the way back to the start. It had been a joyous run that was celebrated in a noisy Alma Arms.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
11 Apr Richard McAllister – Potters Restaurant (GR 894549 or GU16 6DD)
25 Apr
9 May VOLUNTEERS PLEASE
23 May
NOTES ON RUN 514 ON WEDNESDAY 14 MARCH 2018
FROM – ROWLEDGE RECREATION GROUND (GR 822435 OR GU10 4BW)
Hares: Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper).
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ian Angell (Hippo), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Derrick Gray (Prime8) and Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink)
A standard Deepcut briefing was announced BUT it did make absolutely no mention whatsoever about ‘Shiggy’. Perhaps that was just as well as time was to tell. Following OT’s indicated direction we set off in windy sunshine along the road with ER well to the fore. At this stage he was thought to be the only front runner as Cloggs hadn’t arrived yet. (Yes, Cloggs, we did wait but obviously not long enough). From the outset Hippo and Prime8 were walking and we were all together eventually. Once off the road we found ourselves in slippy, deep shig. Underfoot was relieved a bit by strewn broken twigs and branches as the trail led us over tricky ground through trees. It was good to be in more unfamiliar countryside which took Easy and Shrinky alternating far into false trails. They were shortly joined by Cloggs and the three of them, with great support from Sony, became the trail hunters while Cyclone and MR relied on helpful hare hints. JGG did tell us that there was some dry running – the occasional major path and touch of road gave us a chance to feel warmer feet again but that was soon destroyed by more and more shig. It had been a good trail in pleasant sunny but cool weather that finished up quaffing at The Hare and Hounds.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
28 Mar Brian Langford – Opposite the Shell garage on the A287 (GR 828491 or GU10 5AB)
11 Apr Richard McAllister – Potters Restaurant (GR 894549 or GU16 6DD)
25 Apr
9 May
23 May
NOTES ON RUN 513 ON WEDNESDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2018
FROM – THE ALMA PUB (GR 844494 or GU9 0JA)
Hare: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds: John Elder (Seis Matters), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Ian Angell (Hippo), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper).
We were lucky. The snow had long since stopped and the roads were clear. The sun shone as we left the pub, it shone as we ran and it shone when we were back at the pub. While there, the first expected ‘flurry’ of snow passed through and the second arrived after those sensible enough to get home in time. Back to the trail, it was across the road and up on to the top of the ridge. The temperature was not too bad until the wind blew and, boy oh boy, did it blow bitterly cold! But brave souls persevered and the prize (if there was one) for the longest false trail checker would have gone to Cloggs, fairly closely followed by JGG. As OT led us carefully down the first real slope it was the errant who overtook on the upper path shouting ‘Hallo short arses’ to the rest of us. She paid for her irreverence by going off on the first of her long distance checking sprees and it was a while before she was called back. As we continued our descent the wind dropped and the sun shone brightly as we enjoyed the short-lived warmth (it must have been at least 2 degrees). The hare had kindly taken us through some of the more sheltered wooded areas and soon we were enjoying our beers in the Alma, warm again and all happy.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
14 Mar The Ralphs – Car park, Rowledge Recreation Ground (GR 822435 or GU10 4BW)
28 Mar Brian Langford – Opposite the Shell garage on the A287 (GR 828491 or GU10 5AB)
NOTES ON RUN 512 ON WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018
FROM
– BACK OF TWESELDOWN PUB (GR 848500 or GU11 3BD)Hares: John Elder (Seis Matters) and Denise Catlin (Flyimg Doctor)
Hounds: Anne Holland (Cloggs), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Alan Jewell, (Easy Rider), Charles Earl (Isneesrbuggered), Lucy Earl (Chastity Belt), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper).
A fine fifteen turned up despite that it was the coldest, wettest afternoon. It was to turn out to be quite the muddiest of events. “A bit short but could be long” were the riddling words of our hare “…and it starts over there…” pointing down the main path beside the club house. JGG took off right to find he was wrong so the main pack set off across the centre of the field with JGG coming back to join us only to find that he had in reality been correct. So, off over the field towards the main road, up the road for a bit and on to a well-known path. It was slippery from the outset and only got worse as the trail led off right through the trees and into some tricky territory until we hit a main track. Up and away until back into close trees which eventually took us down to the Bourley Road. Over we went where we had time to admire the new fencing going up around the race track. The trail went off alongside the new fencing until it branched back into the woods proper up to another main track and out into the open. It had been the hare’s intent to take us over the race area but the new fencing demanded that we couldn’t proceed as planned. Off the cuff it was either one way or the other on the other. We took the other and set off in the general direction leading back towards ‘home’ and the one hill in the area. The temptation to go up the hill was generally resisted as we wended out way around the bottom and off the racecourse area. Through the trees, along near the main road and back to the car park went we, thoroughly dampened, cooled but in good spirits. Into the Tweseldown to find that most of the beer was not on! No wonder Hippo was not there to greet us. We managed to enjoy what was available. And the riddle? The trail was not as far as usual but the going was not easy so took a longer time than normal. Hats off to the hares for braving the foul elements for so long.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
28 Feb Alan Jewell – The Alma Pub (GR 844494 or GU9 0JA)
14 Mar The Ralphs – Car park, Rowledge (TBC)
28 Mar Brian Langford – Opposite the Shell garage on the A287 (GR 828491 or GU10 5AB)
NOTES ON RUN 511 ON WEDNESDAY 31 JANUARY 2018
FROM – KINGS RIDE, CAMBERLEY (GR 875623)
Hares: Anne Holland (Cloggs), and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
Hounds: Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Ian Angell (Hippo), and Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), John Elder (Seis Matters) and Alan Jewell, (Easy Rider).
Bright sunshine once again but a very cooling wind. We waited for a while but Wally didn’t turn up despite his expressed intention to be there. So we departed through the gates as normal and immediately turned off to the right as we moved up the hill behind the married quarters. It turned out to be a brilliant trail – well marked in orange flour and in true Deepcut style - we ran up through the trees into unfamiliar territory. “Good for mountain biking,” quoted Cloggs, lots of up and down and good, solid paths. She was right – there was sound footing in the main and indeed, much undulating to be done. “There’s a lot of running,” quoted Ever Ready and he was right, too. There were four regroups that helped to keep us together although Seis tended to keep well to the fore and all too often, wrong. FL and easy Rider took a turn or too at the front and even RoT and MR hit the front once or twice (in the case of the latter after helpful hare hints). The sunshine lasted throughout and all was well – until, that is when, right towards the end of the trail, MR sacrificed his body and limbs by discovering the Wally Trap. SPLASH he went down and SPLAT again face down in the mud and gorse and brambles. Those who witnessed the incident were good enough not to laugh out loud; at least, within his hearing and no, he hadn’t spotted the trail that avoided the trap…
Mr Bumble, it was who sorted out our woes.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
14 Feb John Elder – Tweseldown Pub Car Park (GR820519 or GU52 8DY)
28 Feb Alan Jewell – The Alma Pub (GR 844494 or GU9 0JA)
7 Mar ?
21 Mar ?
NOTES ON RUN 510 ON WEDNESDAY 17 JANUARY 2018
FROM – PINE RIDGE GOLF COURSE CAR PARK (GR 907587 OR GU16 9NX)
Hares: Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Brian Langford (Cyclone).
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Ian Angell (Hippo), and Anne Holland (Cloggs), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), John Elder (Seis Matters), Alan Jewell, (Easy Rider) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
Bright sunshine but a cold wind saw us off to a good start out of the back of the car park into the woods alongside the golf course. The Hare Hint was that we were going to go around the course so off shot Seis closely followed (but at a lesser speed) were MR and RoT. For a while we followed a crooked ‘straight’ path alongside the road until our front runner took the wrong fork and RoT got quite excited at being now at the front of the pack. This situation lasted for quite a while but then it was the turn of the two ERs to take over the lead before Cloggs could get by. It was a fascinating trail along paths that are seldom used by DH3, not made any easier by the removal of flour from the ground by a flock of crows. However, they were not able to remove every last vestige and we found enough to keep going. Well, we did until your scribe was left at the half way point well to the fore up the wrong way and out of aural, oral and visual contact with the rest - I don’t know which way they went home. So ‘old lonely’ went on following his instinct which took him over a couple of fairways to the car park…and into the bar.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
31 Jan Anne Holland & Les Salmon - King’s Ride, Camberley (GR 875623)
14 Feb In great need for more volunteers, please…
28 Feb
14 Mar
28 Mar
NOTES ON RUN 509 ON WEDNESDAY 3 JANUARY 2018
FROM – WELLINGTON STATUE CAR PARK (GR 853511)
Hare: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue),
Hounds: Colin Crofts (French Leave), Derrick Grey (Prime 8), Ian Angell (Hippo), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Ann Holland (Cloggs).
Laying the trail in sunshine was warm and pleasant at midday but the high wind made laying the trail somewhat tricky. If flour was deposited more than two inches off the ground the wind took half of it away before the main blob hit the ground. By three o’clock, the sun had dipped, the wind strengthened and shivers were rampant. HOWEVER, a truly Magnificent Seven braved the conditions and set off on the trail southwestwards across the open grassy space and straight over the road into the woods beyond. The hare had taken time and trouble to trim the briars and thorns hindering progress over the wet ditch – but, there was one more missed prickly, strong bramble that caught the hare’s toe and sent him tumbling, bum down into the bottom of the ditch where he soaked up some of the water. Unseen by others and undeterred, but bleeding profusely, the hare tried to catch up. By now, after just five minutes, the pack was stretched. Hippo was tipped off and made his way to a suggested meeting point, leaving Primate and Cyclone to do their own thing. Through the trees went Cloggs, FL and ST with the hare still well behind until we hit a well-known track which took us to the Bourley Road over which we passed and off up the Royal Pavilion concrete road before Cloggs spotted the trail leading off to the right wended its way through some skinny trees and up into more mature, undulating jungle. A hare hint helped Cloggs off up the hill to a short-lived regroup and the pack was sent down the slope only to have to go up the other side. Once we were up on the large, open, sandy area Hippo appeared claiming he was in strange territory. Once he realised where he was, he set off homewards having suffered with a wonky knee again. And so the lesser Magnificent Three had to be directed back on to the true trail. Now the trail had been laid with more than just three hounds in mind and so hare help was necessary on several occasions in order to get back to cars before dark. After considerable twisting and turning we crossed back over the road, through the closed car park where FL continued his front running . From the check-back he then found himself at the back of the pack as progress towards the Race Track was enthusiastically made all the way back to safety. The Tweseldown has seldom been more welcome!
And a Happy New Year to all Hashers…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
17 Jan Tony Soane – Pine Ridge Golf Course Car Park (GR 907587 or GU16 9NX)
…and many more volunteers needed, please…
31 Jan
14 Feb
28 Feb
14 Mar
28 Mar
etc
NOTES ON RUN 508 ON WEDNESDAY 20 DECEMBER 2017
FROM – BAT & BALL PUB (GR 833444)
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave) and Lesley Crofts.
Hounds: Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Derrick Grey (Prime 8), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), John Elder (Seis Matters), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Nico Barnfield (Gonzales Go-Rong), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Sarah Nagel (Petal), Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox), Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
It was a noisy car park with dozens of excited children screaming and shouting in the adjoining garden. The brief on the hills, regroups and busy road to cross (twice) soon took us to the first of the dreaded slopes. It didn’t take long for Go-Rong to set about his norm. But he was not alone with Seis and JGG eagerly checking every which way. Up (of course) won the day and the first of the great struggles began. There was the reciprocal down grade beyond, but that simply meant that we had to re-gain height again. And again. It was only later that OT announced that she used to live near the area and in days gone by many a Hash had to suffer her trails just as we were now. The difference of course is that everyone was twenty years younger then. Anyway, it was a grand trail that had a good mixture of forest and proper (very narrow) roads with streams to be crossed (over bridges). No real shiggy, just a dampness underfoot. Progress was swiftish but then a dastardly trick was played – the high altitude loop came into play. Exceedingly steep upwards we went only at the top for a brief moment before the descent to the path from which we had just left where we met a grinning, jovial hare looking most pleased with himself. The trail progressed along the level for a few yards before turning left up the hill down which we had but moments before descended. He wouldn’t do it again would he? Oh yes he would, could and did. ‘Twas a familiar happy hare escorting the shortcutting Petal who smiled with delight at having caught us again. That was near the end – not only of the trail but some of the Hashers too. It was straight into the pub where lots of sandwiches appeared together with a wide selection of small eats and, most unexpectedly, lots of chips. All in all a good end to our last meeting of 2017.
Happy Christmas to all…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
3 Jan Richard McAllister – Car Park Wellington Statue (GR 853511 or GU11 1QA (Approx))
... and more volunteers needed, please…
NOTES ON RUN 507 ON WEDNESDAY 6 DECEMBER 2017
FROM – BACK OF TWESELDOWN
Hares: Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Derrick Grey (Prime 8)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Ian Angell (Hippo), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), John Elder (Seis Matters), Luke Ripley (Caboose), Brian Langford (Cyclone) and doggie, Anne Holland (Cloggs), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink)
A good turn-out of 13 and a dog on a very gloomy day that promised to be the darkest hash of the year (the darkest evening being the 12th December at these latitudes). In principle, the next hash on the 20th will be as dark except that it starts half an hour earlier. We set off north-east to the hill and thence to the first regroup at the cattle grid. Apparently (we learned much later) this is where the walkers, Hippo and Prime 8 parted company, Hippo's knee giving him trouble and Prime 80 believing (against all rational thought) that he could follow the hash trail back to the start. Meanwhile, the hashers were enjoying a cunning trail that took a while to reveal its clockwise intent. Plunging into dark forest on a dark day tested our eyes' accommodation but, bat-like, we became accustomed to the near darkness. After 45 minutes, we burst out of the jungle to run one of the best half kilometre run-ins in the business to the inn. The disappearance of Derrick prompted the usual 'Top Gear' risposte to those in trouble "Leave him out there" but Cloggs, a kindly soul, felt that we should search for him. 25 minutes later, Easy Rider and Cloggs spotted Prime 800 doing a passable Fruit'n Nut impersonation and found him wandering vacantly across the racecourse.
The Tweseldown was packed with an office Christmas party and yours truly made the mistake of trying the Tweseldown Ale (3.6% - hah, I've drunk more alcoholic tea.)
Next week, the hash will start at 2:30pm from the Bat and Ball, Farnham (833444).
NOTES ON RUN 506 ON WEDNESDAY 22 NOVEMBER 2017
FROM – LIGHTWATER PARK (OFF THE MAULTWAY GR 902618)
Hares: Tony Soane (Sony Tone) and Brian Langford (Cyclone).
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ian Angell (Hippo), Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Colin Crofts (French Leave), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant) and Libby Ralph (Old Thumper).
The hare’s brief gave us depressing accounts of failures in the trail ahead but, not being deterred, the pack was about to set forth when FL turned up so we paused. We were about to set off again when ROT turned up. Eventually we did get away. Within a very short distance, the pack was widely split as the five different pathways were investigated. MR was lucky enough to be on the right track but was soon left well behind at the next check. We were now getting into unfamiliar territory until we found ourselves on the road and bridge over the main road below. Once more it was back into the trees following the dulcet tones of JGG. Then it was uphill, steeply uphill that the hare found rather difficult the second time. We were stopped at the first check by a pile of stones that were thought to be the burial plot of Wally. We didn’t investigate. Then it was off again along some very straight and seemingly endless tracks. They were, of course, not endless but only after a while did we reach the end. And so we progressed over the described ‘short trail’ for longer than anticipated. More hills, and shiggy for all before getting back through the tunnel. Within 55 minutes we were all back from where we started and off to Pine Ridge Golf Club. It had been a pleasant jaunt…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
6 Dec Les Salmon – Car Park at rear of The Tweseldown (GR 820519 or GU52 8DY)
20 Dec 1430 hrs Colin Crofts Christmas Hash Bat & Ball
NOTES ON RUN 505 ON WEDNESDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2017
FROM
– BOURNE CRICKET GROUND (GR 848446)Hares: Brian Langford (Cyclone) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Luke Ripley (Caboose) and Les Salmon (Ever Ready).
The oldest Hasher today was a Hare who started by telling us it was a long run - for Deepcut that would be about three miles. Very funny with plentiful grins and sounds of mirth from the disbelieving pack who really believed he could not travel that far. How wrong we were and the laugh was on us as it turned out to be some four plus miles with a lot of running. The hares admitted that the first regroup was rather a long way into the run as they had been chatting and rather lost the distances they had travelled before it was too late. It was a cool afternoon with plenty of cloud as we set of up the playing field only to meet Cloggs arriving in her car and off into the jungle behind the houses leaving her to catch up. Caboose got derailed very early on while the rest progressed uphill most of the way to a road that had MR setting off full of over-confidence. The returning Ever Ready was obviously nearly back to normal as he took the lead going up further until the inevitable decline following before we went off up over huge and plentiful undulations. It was hard work but through some truly lovely countryside with a well laid trail and the odd hare hint thrown in for the slower hounds. Afterwards, the normally jovial gathering enjoyed the (expensive) beer in The Fox which has undergone a lot of refurbishment.
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
22 Nov Tony Soane – Lightwater Park (off The Maultway GR 902618)6 Dec Les Salmon - TBC
20 Dec Colin Crofts Christmas Hash
NOTES ON RUN 504 ON WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER 2017
FROM
– ELY HOTEL (GR 822589 - GU17 9LJ)Hares: Colin Crofts, (French Leave) and Leslie Crofts (NNY)
Hounds: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), John Elder (Seis Matters), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Derrick Gray (Prime8), Sarah Nagle (Petal) and Luke Ripley (Caboose).
Proposal after the event that this was probably the best trail of the year was agreed in the Ely after the run. The briefing given by FL had not been encouraging. Emphasis was given about the amount of shig on the trail and the general conditions causing him to wear his boots left us thinking that he had been out there in his wellies. The start was easy enough and Caboose with Seis were off to a rapid deployment only to have to come back from whence they had been. This was just a start and an indication that the trail was going to be a bit devious. And so it proved to be and more than just “a bit”. We found ourselves down by the lake, where the reflection of the trees and sunshine was fantastic, before we were off again in the wrong direction. A hare hint to the wandering MR resulted in a change of direction but his lead was not to last for long. He, too, soon went wrong. And so it continued. We thought we knew which way to go but got it wrong. So we started to go the way we didn’t think it should be and got it wrong again. This lasted throughout as we were taken through some lovely woodland, over the odd field past horses grazing and over gentle undulations. All this time the skies were blue and the sun shining on us (and others, too).
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
8 Nov Brian Langford – Bourne Woods (GR 848446)22 Nov Tony Soane – Lightwater Park (off The Maultway GR 902618)
6 Dec Les Salmon - TBC
20 Dec Colin Crofts Christmas Hash
NOTES ON RUN 503 ON WEDNESDAY 11 OCTOBER 2017
FROM – HAWLEY MEMORIAL HALL (GR 850593 - GU14 9BW)
Hare: Alan Jewell (Easy Rider)
Hounds: John Elder (Seis Matters), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Ian Angell (Hippo), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Brian Langford (Cyclone). Les Salmon (Ever Ready), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Colin Crofts, (French Leave) and Derrick Gray (Prime8).
Cloudy and dry was the weather. “Starts over there,” indicated the hare, “and up the steps.” So off shoots Seis up the nearest bit of hill while the rest followed the instructions apart from Sony who stopped to collect fallen chestnuts. At the top of the steps we crossed over the football pitches , through a gap in the fence and off up the hill; not steep but it was a loooong, looong DRAG (Dreadfully Rotten Altitude Gain) all the way to the top. Relatively flat from there on, we were told. The hare wasn’t telling much truth as we were soon going down only to go up again. And thus it continued for a while – quite a long while. But we proceeded over countryside some of which was familiar but much not so over a very good trail. There were strategically positioned regroups that kept the pack together apart from Hippo and Prime8 who knew a different route…
Mr Bumbles was as good as ever!
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
25 Oct Colin Crofts – Ely Hotel (GR 822589 - GU17 9LJ)
8 Nov Brian Langford – Bourne Woods (GR 848446)
22 Nov Tony Soane – Lightwater Park (off The Maultway GR 902618)
6 Dec Les Salmon - TBC
20 Dec Colin Crofts Christmas Hash
NOTES ON RUN 502 ON WEDNESDAY 27 SEPTEMBER 2017
FROM – ROWHILL COPSE CP - (GR 849500 - GU11 3BD)
Hares: John Elder (Seis Matters) and Nico Barnfield (Gonzales Go-Rong)
Hounds: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Ian Angell (Hippo), Sanyu Cox (Fuggles), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Jane Cox (Rs Over Tit), Brian Langford (Cyclone). Jo Johnson (Dodo), Mike Johnson (Shrinky Dink), Les Salmon (Ever Ready) and Tony Soane (Sony Tone).
It didn’t rain until a few spots on the way to the pub later. We left the car park as a group and crossed over the roads into the woods and on to those hills. It was an abrupt start to a devilish trail that soon had the pack spreading their searches far and wide. But with a great turnout finding the true trail was not so problematic. What was interesting was that the trail finders were predominantly Hariettes with the occasional call from JGG. At times the trail looped and looped again and again. This gave slower movers the chance to cut short their travel and at one stage the hare actually encouraged back runners to take a short cut straight down a slope; trouble was the unlaid trail was full of gorse and brambles and fortunately no nettles. After a good run round the area it was pleasant enough to sit outside at The Alma afterwards…
OnOn
Receding Hareline:
11 Oct Alan Jewell – Hawley Memorial Hall (GR 850593 - GU14 9BW)
25 Oct Colin Crofts – Ely Hotel (GR 822589 - GU17 9LJ)
8 Nov Brian Langford – Bourne Woods (GR 848446)
22 Nov Tony Soane – Lightwater Park (off The Maultway GR 902618)
6 Dec Les Salmon - TBC
20 Dec Colin Crofts Christmas Hash
NOTES ON RUN 501 ON WEDNESDAY 13 SEPTEMBER 2017
FROM – THE FORESTERS, CHURCH CROOKHAM (GR 828528 )
Hare: Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue)
Hounds: Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Ian Angell (Hippo), Roland Cox (Fairy Snow), Sanyu Cox (Fuggles) and, Anne Holland (Cloggs).
Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear!! Deepcut Hashers where were you on 13 Sep? If there had been no NH4 members on the run, the Hare would have been all on his own!! The sun shone for most of the run that set off on the path at the back of The Foresters with JGG to the fore having led the pack astray at the start. Meanwhile, Cloggs at the back spotted the blob off through the trees to the right and soon the pack (all four of them as Hippo and FS were walking towards a point where they could cut out the first half of the run) took off on the right trail. At the approach to a multi-junction JGG nearly got it right with Cloggs well to the fore straight on and OT well off course and Fuggles hedging her bets. Having called OT back, she spotted the trail almost parallel to JGG’s direction. The trail went through open countryside and over a stile into woodland to be confronted by a deep, wet ditch that did not cause any apparent problem. It was then up through some rough woodland and out into the open near Norris Bridge. After a hint, JGG found the entry to a largely overgrown path through woodland and eventually up to the open ridge top before going down to the crossing point over the road leading to Church Crookham. On the far side, a right turn down through more forest the trail ran vaguely parallel to the road for a while before leading on to the vehicle test track. For some while the trail followed the track until OT found the turn that led us back towards The Foresters after which she headed up a wrong hill. It was in The Foresters that we enjoyed our refreshments and chatter.
On On
Next Hash:
27 Sep John Elder – Rowhills Copse CP - GR 849500
11 Oct
25 Oct
8 Nov
22 Nov
6 Dec
20 Dec Christmas Hash
We really, really need lots more volunteer hares please
NOTES ON RUN 500 ON WEDNESDAY 30 AUGUST 2017
FROM – THE HARE & HOUNDS, ROWLEDGE (GR 823433)
The pack resplendent in new 500th run plumage with just a few connoisseurs in the burgundy-coloured T-shirts.
Hares: Colin Crofts (French Leave), Lesley Crofts (NNY) and Gerd Schafer (NNY)
Hounds: Libby Ralph (Old Thumper), Andy Ralph (Jolly Green Giant), Tony Soane (Sony Tone), Brian Langford (Cyclone), Richard McAllister (Mountain Rescue), John Elder (Seis Matters), Anna Elder (Janet'n John), Alan Jewell (Easy Rider), Sarah Nagle (Petal), Ian Angell (Hippo), Roland Cox (Fairy Snow), Sanyu Cox (Fuggles), Tim Dodd (Hanging About), Pam Dodd (Damp Patch), Anne Holland (Cloggs), Steve Bridges (Hobble), Steve Nagel (Silvier Fox), Martin Potter (Goofy), Luke Ripley (Caboose) and Adam Soane (NNY).
After days of pleasant sunshine the weather was forecast to decline to its more normality of dull rain (heavy rain in the afternoon) and cool breezes. Were we downhearted? Were we bothered? Did we care…? Oh no! The drizzling rain stopped as we started the run along the road. The trail, we were told by the hare, had been laid for a real Deepcut meet with few, if any, ‘professional’ front runners. There were to be three regroups and the trail was about four miles. For the front of pack there was Seis as expected, and Cloggs, Hanging About, a long since visited Goofy and Caboose with Jolly Green Giant and Old Thumper all vying for the front. Those of us at the back of the pack were able to enjoy the sight of many of our new shirts progressing well ahead. All too soon the fronters were coming back to meet the tail enders who had turned off over a ditch that demanded assistance for Petal followed by MR who asked for a pull from the front and a push from the back provided by Easy Rider and Cloggs. The trail went through signed private property that was of no concern to the pack that transgressed over some very difficult undergrowth (no wonder why it was ‘Private’) over surprisingly hilly countryside. And thus it continued through a mixture of woodland and built-up areas. Yes, there were patches of real shig but they were easily bypassed. The well-laid trail was only rubbed out at one spot but otherwise it remained despite the heavy morning rain. By the time we’d reached the bar, some of the locals were talking about us: “They were running when they passed me.” was countered by “I only saw them walking...” from another. The Hare and Hounds looked after us well but the higher turnout meant there was a bit of a shortage on the grub side and, sadly, Lesley and Gerd simply couldn’t leave the bar in time to get any. But, thanks to the hares for laying on a good celebration and thanks to all those who turned up to partake.
On On
Next Hash: 13 Sep – Richard McAllister – Foresters lower CP (GR 828528)
27 Sep
11 Oct
25 Oct
We really need more volunteer hares - please
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Richard 'Mountain Rescue' McAllister who introduced hashing to Britain in 1969 at Longmoor. |