| Date | Hare | Scribe |
|---|---|---|
| 25 January 2026 | Jeremy | Annie |
Despite the gloomy weather of late, 22 Hashers gathered for the first Hash of 2026. We milled around in the car park, obstructing other customers until we finally assembled for the group photo. It was like herding cats but we eventually lined up prior to our brief from Jeremy. I can’t remember all the instructions except “We don’t cross the A4” and “It’s only a bit damp in places”. Jeremy then retired to the pub for tea and cake.
I was relieved to see we went in the opposite direction from the last Hash from this venue. It sticks in my mind, not only muddy but pouring with rain too. On that occasion Mike did a triple pike somersault, landing on his shoulder on a slope in thick mud. The gymnastics involved in getting up meant he was thoroughly basted with cold mud on all sides. So relief all round there was to be no repeat of that escapade. However “A bit damp in places” was a fib – we plodged in the clarts but we all stayed upright.
I saw my first snowdrops of the year, always a welcome sight, and tiny buds on bushes reminded us that spring isn’t too far off. The river was high and fast flowing and The Marsh lived up to its name.
Mike and I peeled off as we departed The Marsh opposite Cobbs on the A4. We had a restorative cuppa there before walking back to the pub, arriving shortly after the others. The rain was only just starting so perfect timing.
David was obviously at home, wearing fetching slippers that were extremely ventilated. We had a cosy corner all to ourselves so were able to all be together for the après.
GOM gave the vote of thanks to Jeremy for his well marked trail and the bags to Des for ignoring the markings and arriving back to the pub after 20 minutes – but he did then restart and become the only person to run the full course. Jeremy was given the horn, I can’t remember why – maybe because he was wearing a nice scarf? In fact it was for his well marked trail. Personally I think it should have gone to Viv because she DID cross the A4. Rebel.
I hope you all don’t mind if I mention my Auntie Joan. I’m sure she must have been our oldest Hasher, passing peacefully on the day of our previous Hash at the grand old age of 96. She attended I believe at least 3 Hashes including a summer seaside one and many of the cream teas we held in the old days. She enjoyed being a Hasher I’m sure.
