| Date | Hare | Scribe |
|---|---|---|
| 4 Aug 2024 | Helen & Hilary | Kathy |
Well, as Basil Fawlty may well have urged: “don’t mention the cornfield!”. Suffice to say, Hilary didn’t exaggerate with her warnings. No sir; not one bit. But for the rest? What a pleasing turnout for today’s very enjoyable hash, in hash-perfect weather. No stiles, unambiguous signage with plenty of arrows, and only the gentlest of hills to start for the walkers (though I’m assured by Kevin, who walked the long trail, that the panoramic views from the hillier Clouts Wood above Wroughton were quite wonderful).
Our committed hares had obviously meticulously planned today’s trails, even completing a recce close to the date – hence their late discover of the shocking beanstalk-like growth spurt of the aforementioned cornfield – and they are to be congratulated on taking us through some unfamiliar and very charming routes. We passed the ancient church called – I think – St John the Baptist & St Helen’s (how apt!), and then on to the lovely and incredibly peaceful hamlet of Elcombe, with its row of prettily maintained properties of all sizes.
After more than a quarter of a century, however, I think there are few superlatives left to describe a hash, so I’ve taken a departure from the norm to pen an uncomplicated verse as an affectionate tribute to our beloved pastime. I hope you all enjoy reading it, and that it will strike a chord for the many stalwart hashers who regularly turn out, come rain or shine, to support our intrepid, very hard-working hares. Remember – come the actual day – they don’t have a choice!
Hashing’s full of many charms,
Catching up with friendly faces,
Sharing woes, the fresh air balms,
Hares who push us through our paces.
Promises of scenic views,
Urging up the steep ascent,
Mackerel skies of many hues,
Wondering where the sunshine went.
‘Are we there yet? Is it far?’
Dawdling walkers tarry back.
Jibes and banter at the bar,
Dishing out some well-earned flak.
Pints are sunk, and teas are poured,
Recollections spring to mind,
Recalls vary, points are scored,
Showing off, but always kind.
Hashing’s there for everyone,
If only it could run and run,
When all is said and done.
At the end of another relaxing après Kevin fulsomely thanked our very deserving hares, and Jeremy was at pains to point out the length of time he’d taken custody of the infamous hash shorts, which he then duly passed on to Kevin as a reminder of his recent absences (shock horror, GOM and all!).
On on!
