That well known saying by Kenneth Williams 'infamy, infamy, they've all got it in for me!! ', I thought was made for my last 2 planned harings. Both of the last 2 named storms have turned up on the week-end of them, and with my co-hare not available, some effort was needed to make sure things could go ahead as planned.

Not to worry, an early 8am start with my trusty hound Millyspeed [mutt of the year ... ed] on a lovely sunny and frosty morning saw us in one of the best area's of North Herts for hashing, with the 'rush hour' of flights from the near-by airport in full voice ! The trail was laid in good time and I wondered how many of the revellers from 'Posh Nosh' (a great evening, well done all!) would make it to the Red Lion.

We made up the numbers despite road closures en-route and so departed via the many footpaths around the pub. Depth Charge and Capt F led the pack in the wrong direction, and when a falsie footpath was explored by the Count the bar was ignored and they finished up at a held check which should be approached from the other direction! Luckily Clap Trap and Catch It fetched them back.

Collecting ourselves we followed the path towards Bendish and a check which fooled many into exploring the 4 or 5 options available. In the end Rapid suggested that the footpath sign directing walkers to Whiteway Bottom should be tried, and lo and behold! an arrow in the field put us back on track. Many number checks kept the pack together with Blow Felt and Pussies bring up the rear, which brings me to the subject of 'bottoms'.

You will find Lilley, Claggy, Frogmore and Stagenhoe all have 'bottoms' in the vicinity, and in my youth of many years ago the roads around them were used on the numerous 'night car rallies' that I indulged in. Oh happy days!

That's enough of that, get on with it! OK. Many were sent back via number checks, including Subby and Oscar as we made our way back; and on reaching a short cut for Double Entry and others the FRB's were sent on a Duke of York route with much knashing of teeth etc !! [see wurdz 906 almost exactly 10 years ago when dukeing came up is this coincidence or thorough research ... ed]

By this time the mud was collecting in vast quantities on shoes, but we all made it back to the very obliging and friendly pub. The pub dog was Billy, which made calling for Milly very confusing.

Knobber conducted the circle-up, the RA dished out various down downs and I think we all have a great time. Shame on you who missed this great area...we will be back !!!! [ere 5 years I hope ... ed]

On On, Bangers.