It was a relief to find that the little village of Hagbourne had nothing to do with the likes of Liza Minelli, in spite of the name. And, even though Finger Flasher was spotted “bringing up the rear” just before the regroup, it is generally thought that Ms. Minelli’s next husband was not in attendance last night. Unfortunately, this East Hagbournian was also absent, but we should expect to see [ahem] more of her sooon.
The pub (Fleur de Lys) seemed quite nice for a French place, but the nanny state made its presence felt in spite of the landlord’s grand welcome. This was spotted in the Gents and makes one wonder what instructions are left for the Ladies:
Like you can stop a hasher from pulling his knob...
The trail, a Hotshot exclusive, exhibited some of the prettier bits of of farmland between East Hagbourne and Blewbury and gave the pack ample opportunity to run through mud and water. Some of the group found themselves far off trail and inadvertently (and without forethought) short cutting away from this bit of shiggy and on to the finish where the food and beverage was being served without the benefit of tables (which were still locked up far away in the Bollard-mobile). Still, we made due with what was available and got some tantalising offers along the way. For instance, La Crease was quick to state that “my boot is quite dirty but you fellows are welcome to it,” which makes short cutting that much more attractive since her man was still lost on trail.
There were even beverage alternatives for non-beer drinkers:
Although someone hasn’t quite figured out the mechanics of boxed wine:
But soon the pack filtered in and feasting and merrymaking were only interrupted briefly by the bureaucratic necessity of Circle. A hearty argument ensued about the precise definition of “odd socks.” Rather than force Gate Crasher to enjoy a beverage as enticement in future to use overall colour scheme as his guide, a youngster was pushed forward in his stead.
This ugliness completed, the vultures returned to the remaining victuals. Mum and Dad was heard to complain about being offered a floppy sausage. And, Gadget was heard to complain…so at least some things were normal.
Digital cameras require deft timing to get a shot of harriets handling or swallowing sausages, but the efforts shall continue and God willing....
